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F-Gas Course – Category 1 and 2

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Become certified with F-gas training courses, complete with two to three weeks of in-house training from an expert instructor with MGE Training. Book your place today by calling 0121 557 7009 to start your journey in getting your recognised F-gas qualification.


Course Overview

Our F-gas course is separated into two distinct categories: Cat 1 and Cat 2.

The F-gas Cat 1 course is a level three Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) qualification awarded by LCL. The Cat 1 F-gas course is ideal for experienced engineers looking to become qualified to work on all refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump equipment containing fluorinated greenhouse gases.

The F-gas Cat 2 course is also a level three RQF qualification for experienced engineers looking to work with the same applications containing less than 3kg of fluorinated gases.

heatpumps for f-gas services and courses

Course Description and Contents

Cat 1 Course

Suited to:

  • This is not F-gas training for beginners; the Cat 1 course is for experienced engineers working with air conditioning and refrigeration systems
  • Those with other industry qualifications, such as the former ‘Safe Handling of Refrigerants’ certificate
  • Candidates with allied qualifications such as an NVQ Level 2 or above in gas or plumbing

Once completed, candidates can:

  • Work on any air conditioning, heat pump or refrigeration system containing F-gases, with no restrictions on gas volume

Course length:

  • The Cat 1 F-gas training course takes place over three weeks

Cat 2 Course

Suited to:

  • This is a stepped F-gas course aimed at those with allied trade qualifications such as NVQ Level 2 or above in gas or plumbing
  • Engineers with previous air conditioning or refrigeration experience
  • Those who do not have previous air conditioning and refrigeration experience are advised to attend this course before attempting Cat 1
  • Applicants must hold a recognised qualification in refrigeration, heating and ventilation or another related industry sector
  • Candidates should be able to demonstrate two years of auditable experience in the refrigeration, heating and ventilation (HVAC) sector
  • Those with no experience or qualifications can attend an in-house, 2-week training course prior to the Cat 2 F-gas training

Once completed, candidates can:

  •   Work on air conditioning, heat pump and refrigeration systems with an F-gas limit of 3kg

Course length:

  • It takes five days to complete the course and receive your Cat 2 F-gas qualification

Entry Requirements

If you’re looking for an ‘F-gas course near me’, there are some entry requirements to consider. Both Cat 1 and Cat 2 courses require attendees to have experience working with HVAC and refrigeration systems.

To take the Cat 2 training course – candidates must have recognised qualifications or two years of auditable experience in the refrigeration, heating and ventilation industry.

Applicants for the Cat 1 course are advised to complete Cat 2 first and have a good deal of knowledge in relevant sectors.

aircon units - f-gas course

How Are The F-Gas Courses Assessed?

Both Cat 1 and Cat 2 F-gas training courses are assessed using a blend of a multiple-choice exam and a practical assessment. This is designed to test a candidate’s theoretical understanding as well as practical ability.

Candidates need to be able to demonstrate they can work safely and competently in accordance with relevant industry legislation.

Learning Outcomes

As part of your training and F-gas qualification, we structure it around a list of specific learning outcomes, including:

  •         Know the fundamental principles of thermodynamics
  •         Understand the environmental impacts of refrigerants and the corresponding regulations
  •         How to carry out checks before putting equipment into operation, after long periods of non-use, after maintenance or repair intervention
  •         How to check for leakage
  •         Proper procedures for handling systems during installation, maintenance and servicing in an eco-friendly manner
  •         Comprehend how to put in operation and maintain reciprocating, screw and scroll, single and two-stage compressors
  •         How to install and maintain air and water-cooled condensers and evaporators
  •         How to install, put into operation and service Thermostatic Expansion Valves (TEVs) and other components
  •         To be able to build a leak-tight piping system in a refrigeration installation

Why Choose MGE Training?

  • Blended practical and theoretical learning
  • Highly experienced tutors
  • Industry-recognised certifications
  • Flexible training options
  • Affordable courses for varying abilities

Book Your Place

To get started, just reserve your place on our next F-gas course today. Book by calling our friendly team on 0121 557 7009, emailing enquiries@mgetraining.co.uk or filling out our contact form.

Need More Answers About F-Gas Training?

What is F-Gas?

The term ‘F-gas’ is an abbreviation for ‘fluorinated gases. These are manmade gases created by blending various chemicals. F-gases are used in a range of applications, including heating and cooling, as well as fire extinguishers and other aerosols. These gases are harmful to the ozone layer if released, so special F-gas courses are required to ensure safe practices when working with F-gas equipment.

What Are The Different Types of F-Gas?

There are three main types of F-gas, all covered in our training:

  •         Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
  •         Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
  •         Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6)

The most common are HFCs, which contain hydrogen, fluorine and carbon.

Who is An F-Gas Course Suitable For?

Our F-gas training courses are suited to those looking to work in the heating and cooling industry, specifically with applications containing manmade fluorinated gases. Cat 1 and Cat 2 courses are tailored for different experience levels, with Cat 1 being better suited to those with more experience, and Cat 2 serving as a stepping course for Cat applicants.

Does The F-Gas Certification Expire?

The LCL RQF F-gas courses we provide at MGE Training will need to be renewed once every five years to ensure candidates are up to date with evolving legislation and practices.

What Happens After I Qualify?

Once you receive your F-gas qualification, you’ll be able to work on heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems containing fluorinated gases. Completing the Cat 1 course means you can work with systems of any size, while the Cat 2 course is limited to systems containing no more than 3kg of F-gases.

Is There Any Recommended Reading Before Starting An F-Gas Course?

There is no recommended reading before starting an F-gas training course. However, educating yourself on the latest legislation and practices could prove beneficial.

Can I Start My Own Business After Completion of This F-Gas Course?

Certainly. These F-gas courses provide attendees with information that could enable them to find their own businesses, working in the installation, servicing and repair of heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems containing F-gases.

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