A Thermo King installer (often referred to as a transport refrigeration technician or installer) is responsible for mounting, wiring, and commissioning refrigeration units onto trucks, trailers, vans, and other commercial vehicles. Because these units are complex mechanical and electrical systems, the job requires a mix of automotive, electrical, and HVAC/R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) skills.
Here is a breakdown of what a Thermo King installer typically does on the job:
Core Responsibilities
1. Mechanical Installation & Mounting
- Structural Fabrication: Prepares the vehicle body by drilling holes, reinforcing the structural support frames, and installing mounting brackets capable of holding heavy reefers (refrigeration units).
- Unit Placement: Uses forklifts, cranes, or hoists to carefully position and bolt the nose-mount or under-mount refrigeration units onto the trailer or truck body.
- Component Fitting: Installs sub-components such as fuel tanks, fuel lines, battery boxes, and specialized ductwork inside the trailer to ensure proper airflow.
2. Electrical & Control System Wiring
- DC Electrical Routing: Routes heavy-duty electrical wiring harnesses from the vehicle’s battery and alternator to the refrigeration unit.
- Microprocessor Integration: Connects the unit's control panel and installs sensors (like temperature probes and door switches) throughout the cargo area.
- Electric System Setup: For newer electric units, installers handle high-voltage connections, battery packs, and solar panels.
3. Engine & Plumbing Connections
- Diesel Engine Hookups: For self-powered units, installers connect the unit's internal diesel engine to the vehicle’s fuel system.
- Refrigerant Line Plumbing: They cut, bend, braze, and route copper or flexible refrigerant lines between the compressor, condenser, and evaporator.
4. System Testing & Commissioning
- Pressure & Vacuum Testing: Uses specialized gauges to pressure-test the system for leaks and pulls a deep vacuum to clear moisture from the lines.
- Refrigerant Charging: Charges the system with the exact weight of the specified refrigerant (like R-452A or R-404A).
- Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI): Runs the unit through its automatic testing sequences, calibrates temperature sensors, and verifies that the unit cools down to the target temperature efficiently.
Pay: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
