Following the announcement of its dedicated A/C Training Concept for technicians, we talk to Nissens about what delegates can expect to encounter.
PMM: Why is it so important for workshops to have dedicated A/C systems training nowadays?
NISSENS: A/C systems are now far more complex and involved than in previous times and garages are more frequently required to tackle the servicing and maintenance requirements associated with these. As a result, the aftermarket requires a much better understanding of how they work and general
best practice associated with such systems, so as to avoid errors in maintaining them.
Give us an example of one area of A/C systems knowledge/training where modern technicians will benefit from training?
The major example that springs to mind is the correct use of oil and lubrication in A/C maintenance as we see many cases where workshops are mixing two different oils, which can then lead to compressor failure. There are plenty of other issues that can occur if the correct procedures aren’t followed and we’ll be educating technicians about these, the causes and how such problems can be overcome.
The training concept is split up into ‘Basic’, ‘Intermediate’ and ‘Expert’ modules – what is the difference between these?
The training is designed to suit the level of expertise that the technician currently has. The Basic level is aimed at giving a general understanding for those that work with A/C on a fairly irregular basis. The Intermediate module is targeted at technicians who are using and fitting A/C components regularly, while the Expert course offers much more depth about A/C systems and parts and drills
down into a much higher level of detail.
How does Nissens deliver its training?
The training is available through your local Nissens parts supplier/motor factor and, once you’ve registered your interest, it will normally be delivered at a neutral venue and time that is suitable to you and your motor factor supplier.
How long does training generally take?
Training can take anything from ½ a day to two days. We’re very flexible and will endeavour to fit around the needs of the technician/garage and their distributor.
Do technicians have to take a test and do they receive a certificate at the end of their training?
There is no official test that takes place at the end of the training, however technicians will be asked to provide us with some feedback and they’ll then be presented with a certificate that they can display in their workshop to prove they’ve furthered their skills in this area.
Why is Nissens well placed to deliver this sort of training?
Founded in 1921, we live and breathe A/C systems. We’re regularly abreast of OE market developments and, because our team contains some of the industry’s most knowledgeable A/C specialists, we believe
that we’re in a fantastic place to improve the understanding of A/C servicing and maintenance across the industry.
