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F-Gas Course – Category 1 and 2

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Become F-gas certified with an F-gas course from MGE Training, complete with two to three weeks of in-house training with an expert instructor. Book your place on our next F-gas training course today by calling 0121 557 7009.

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. This 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 aimed at experienced engineers. However, it only entitles candidates to work on refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump systems containing less than 3kg of fluorinated gases.

heatpumps for f-gas services and courses

Course Description and Contents

Cat 1 Course

Suited to:

  • 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:

  • 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
  • Alternatively, candidates should be able to demonstrate two years of auditable experience in the refrigeration, heating and ventilation sector
  • Those with no experience or qualifications can attend an in-house 2-week training course prior to the Cat 2 F-gas training course

Once completed, candidates can:

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

Course length:

  • Five days

Entry Requirements

For those looking for an ‘F-gas course near me’, there are some entry requirements to consider. Candidates wishing to complete the Cat 2 course must have a recognised qualification in refrigeration, heating and ventilation or other related sector. Alternatively, they must have two years of auditable experience in the refrigeration, heating and ventilation industry.

Those wishing to complete the Cat 1 course are advised to complete the Cat 2 course first. Applicants for the Cat 1 F-gas course should also have a good deal of experience in air conditioning and refrigeration.

aircon units - f-gas course

How is This Course Assessed?

Both of our F-gas courses are assessed using a blend of multiple-choice exam and 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

Our F-gas training course delivery is structured around a list of learning outcomes:

  • The learner will know the fundamental principles of thermodynamics
  • The learner will understand the environmental impact of refrigerants and the corresponding environmental regulations
  • The learner will be able to carry out checks before putting equipment into operation, after a long period of non-use, after maintenance or repair intervention or during operation
  • The learner will be able to check for leakage
  • The learner will be able to handle the system and refrigerant during installation, maintenance, servicing or recovery in an environmentally friendly manner, in accordance with the regulations
  • The learner will be able to put into operation and maintain reciprocating, screw and scroll, single and two-stage compressors
  • The learner will be able to install, put into operation and maintain air-cooled and water-cooled condensers and evaporators
  • The learner will be able to install, put into operation and service Thermostatic Expansion Valves (TEVs) and other components
  • The learner will 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.

F-Gas Training Course | FAQs

What is F-Gas?

The term ‘F-gas’ is an abbreviation for ‘fluorinated greenhouse 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-containing equipment.

What Are The Different Types of F-Gas?

There are three main types of F-gases:

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

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

What is the Difference Between the F-Gas Course Categories?

There are two categories of F-gas training course. Cat 1 is designed for experienced engineers and allows candidates to work on any size of F-gas system. Cat 2 is aimed at less experienced engineers and is designed as a stepping course before Cat 1. Completing a Cat 2 course allows engineers to work on systems with a maximum capacity of 3kg of F-gas.

What Are The Benefits of Completing an F-Gas Course?

Completing an F-gas course broadens the range of equipment you are certified to work on. Successful candidates will be able to install, service and repair equipment containing F-gases, including heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.

Who is An F-Gas Course Suitable For?

F-gas training courses in general are suited to those looking to work in the heating and cooling industry. 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 1 applicants.

Does The F-Gas Certification Expire?

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

Do I Need Any Previous Qualifications?

All attendees for both Cat 1 and Cat 2 F-gas courses will need a minimum of a recognised qualification in refrigeration, heating and ventilation or two years of auditable experience in the industry. Those wishing to attend the Cat 1 course are advised to complete the Cat 2 course first. Any applicants who do not meet the requirements can attend a short in-house training course with MGE first.

What Happens After I Qualify?

After you qualify, you will be able to work on heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems containing F-gases. If you have completed a Cat 1 course, you can work on any size of system. If you have completed a Cat 2 course, you will be 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 courses provide attendees with information that could enable them to found their own businesses, working in the installation, servicing and repair of heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems containing F-gases.

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