Cost Guide
Refrigeration Mechanic Costs in Australia
Understand typical refrigeration mechanic costs, key price drivers, and after-hours pricing before you request quotes.
Know what you should be paying
Describe your job and get an instant estimate — then compare quotes from local refrigeration mechanics.
Hourly rate
$120/hr
Call-out fee
$95
After-hours
1.5x – 2.0x
Price Ranges
Common refrigeration mechanic jobs & costs
Prices based on Australia market data. Most jobs are quoted as fixed price rather than hourly.
Coolroom Installation$19,895 – $63,295
Existing coolroom removal and refrigerantInstallation scope and complexitySite and floor preparationElectrical supply and upgradesTiming, call-out and after-hours
General & other refrigeration jobs$355 – $1,155
Site type and operational impactSealed-system and refrigerant workCompliance and induction requirementsAfter-hours attendance and urgencyParts, consumables and specialist components
Refrigeration Repair$265 – $1,375
Repair severity and scopeSealed‑system work requiredParts, refrigerant type and availabilityNumber of technicians and equipment hireTiming and site access
Refrigeration Service$365 – $2,585
Equipment type and sizeNumber of evaporators and cabinetsRefrigerant work and balancingAccess, lifting and permitsLabour arrangements and timing
Prices are indicative and based on typical jobs in the Australia area. Your actual quote may differ based on specific job requirements. Get a personalised estimate for your job, then matched tradies can reach out to quote.
Licensing & Compliance
Refrigeration Mechanic licensing requirements
Refrigeration Mechanic is regulated in Australia. Requirements vary by state. Here's what to know before hiring.
What to look for
- Valid state refrigeration / air conditioning contractor licence displayed on quotes and advertising
- ARC Tick licence (RHL) for refrigerant handling — visible on lookforthetick.com.au
- ABN with active GST registration
- Public liability insurance ($5M minimum)
- AIRAH or AMCA membership
Requirements by state
New South Wales — Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractor Licence / Qualified Supervisor Certificate required · Verify
Victoria — Plumber Registration — Mechanical Services required · Verify
Queensland — Air Conditioning and Mechanical Services Contractor Licence required · Verify
Western Australia — Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Contractor Licence required · Verify
South Australia — Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Contractor Licence required · Verify
Tasmania — Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Practitioner Licence required · Verify
Northern Territory — Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Licence / Contractor Licence required · Verify
Australian Capital Territory — Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Licence required · Verify
Common Questions
Refrigeration Mechanic pricing FAQ
How much do refrigeration mechanics typically charge?
Costs for refrigeration mechanics vary widely depending on the type of job, whether sealed-system work or a full coolroom install is needed, and the parts required. Most quotes include a call-out component plus labour time and materials, with after-hours work usually costing more. Check the live pricing shown on this page for current rates.
Do refrigeration mechanics charge call-out fees?
Many refrigeration mechanics charge a call-out fee to attend a property to cover travel and the initial diagnosis. This fee is generally separate from hourly labour and parts, and after-hours or emergency attendance often attracts higher rates. It's advisable to confirm any call-out or minimum charges when requesting quotes.
Do refrigeration mechanics need a licence in Australia?
Yes. Refrigeration mechanics generally need a contractor licence in every Australian state and territory, and licence requirements are enforced by state authorities such as NSW Fair Trading in New South Wales. Providers should display a valid state refrigeration or air conditioning contractor licence and, where refrigerant handling is involved, an ARC Tick (RHL) endorsement is commonly held.
How accurate is the instant estimate?
Our estimates are built from research across thousands of local jobs and real pricing data. Use them as a guide when speaking to refrigeration mechanics — your actual quote will depend on your specific job.
How many quotes will I get?
We'll match you with up to 3 refrigeration mechanics initially. If you'd like more options, you can request additional matches.
Do I pay anything to get quotes?
No — the service is 100% free for homeowners.
Why do you need photos?
Clear photos cut surprises and price blowouts, saving you money.
Get a personalised estimate for your job
These are general ranges. Describe your job, get a tailored estimate in seconds — then matched local refrigeration mechanics reach out to quote.