For engineers and installers working with refrigeration, air conditioning, or heat pump systems, F-Gas certification is more than just a credential – it is a legal requirement. Whether you’re expanding your existing trade skills or stepping into the HVAC sector for the first time, understanding what this qualification involves can help you move forward with confidence.

At Staffordshire Training Services, our F-Gas training course is designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and certification necessary to work safely and legally with systems containing fluorinated gases.

F-Gas Certification at a Glance

F-Gases, or fluorinated greenhouse gases, are commonly used as refrigerants in many types of air conditioning and heat pump systems. Due to their environmental impact, the handling of these gases is tightly regulated across the UK and Europe.

F-Gas certification proves that an engineer or installer has been properly trained to work with these substances. It confirms they can handle refrigerants safely, identify and prevent leaks, and comply with environmental legislation. Without this qualification, it is not permitted to carry out installation or maintenance on systems containing F-Gases.

The Course Is Designed For

This course has been developed for professionals who already have a background in the building services or engineering trades. It is ideal for:

  • Plumbers, heating engineers, and gas engineers who want to add cooling and HVAC services to their skill set
  • Electrical professionals seeking to work with air conditioning or heat pump systems
  • New entrants with relevant experience looking to expand into the renewables sector
  • Certified F-Gas engineers who need to renew their qualification after five years

The course is open to those with experience or prior learning in plumbing, heating, refrigeration, or electrical disciplines.

Course Structure and Duration

The F-Gas course runs over four to five days, depending on the candidate’s previous experience. It is delivered entirely face-to-face at our dedicated training centre in Stafford.

Sessions are led by qualified instructors who bring practical industry knowledge into the classroom. The course is structured to provide a mix of theory and hands-on practical experience, allowing learners to build absolute confidence in applying their knowledge.

What the Training Covers

The course is designed to prepare engineers to meet all legal and technical requirements for working with systems containing F-Gases. It includes:

  • Safe handling of refrigerants
  • Leak detection and testing
  • System evacuation, charging, and recovery
  • Installation, commissioning, and servicing techniques
  • Understanding and applying current F-Gas regulations
  • Environmental awareness and compliance

Learners train in our fully equipped refrigeration suite, where they work with real systems in realistic conditions. This ensures that the skills gained are directly applicable to the job.

Category 1 and Category 2

Two levels of certification are available, depending on the type of systems you plan to work on:

  • Category 1: Suitable for engineers who will be working on all system sizes, including large and complex installations.
  • Category 2: For those working only on smaller systems with less than 3kg of refrigerant (or 6kg for hermetically sealed equipment).

Category 1 provides the broadest qualification, while Category 2 is suitable for those focusing on domestic or smaller commercial systems. Our team can help you determine which path is right for you, based on your current role and future plans.

Assessment and Qualification

Assessment for the course includes both practical tasks and written elements. Candidates are tested on their ability to:

  • Handle refrigerants safely
  • Identify and repair leaks
  • Complete installations to regulatory standards
  • Follow environmental procedures and best practices

On successful completion, learners receive a Level 3 F-Gas certificate for the category achieved. This qualification is widely recognised across the industry and is required for registration with REFCOM.

Expanding Career Opportunities

Holding F-Gas certification opens up new areas of work across the HVAC and renewables sectors. With this qualification, you will be legally permitted to:

  • Install, maintain, and repair air conditioning units
  • Work on refrigerant-based heat pump systems
  • Offer leak detection and system servicing as part of your business
  • Meet tender or employment requirements for commercial and domestic work

Many engineers combine this training with qualifications in air source heat pumps, enabling them to work across both heating and cooling technologies.

Building on Your Training

The F-Gas training course provides a strong foundation for further training. After gaining certification, learners often progress to:

  • Air Source Heat Pump Training – for full coverage of modern heating systems
  • Electrical Courses – to widen capability with integrated systems
  • Renewables Qualifications – for those looking to future-proof their skills in line with changing regulations and customer demand

At Staffordshire Training Services, our team is here to support your development at every stage.

Training with Staffordshire Training Services

Training takes place at our custom-designed centre in Stafford. Built specifically for trade professionals, our facilities replicate real-world environments, allowing learners to maximise their time with us.

Our instructors are qualified engineers with real site experience. This means the training you receive is not just technically accurate but also practical, relevant, and focused on what works in the field.

We are committed to delivering accessible and accredited gas training that empowers learners to move forward with confidence and competence.

Confident and Compliant

F-Gas certification is a legal requirement for engineers and installers working with refrigerants. But more than that, it is an opportunity to expand your skills, open up new work opportunities, and demonstrate your commitment to safe and professional practice.

With hands-on training, expert support, and a recognised qualification, our F-Gas course gives you everything you need to take the next step in your career.

 

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