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SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Hot Water System Installer (Heat Pump Installer) 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
94620  Occupational Certificate: Hot Water System Installer (Heat Pump Installer) 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - IOPSA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
QCTO - Quality Council for Trades and Occupations  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Engineering and Related Design 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  67  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2018-07-01  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a heat pump installer.

Heat pump installer is one who installs, tests, maintains and repairs domestic air source type, heat pump systems and equipment. These tasks will meet the requirements for safe and correct installation of new and replacement of non-functioning domestic air source heat pump systems complete with all the relevant and applicable safety and hydraulic control units. It covers domestic air source, heat pump water heating systems that fall within the scope of SANS 151 up to 500 litres.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Prepare and plan for the installation of domestic air source heat pump systems.
  • Install domestic air source heat pump systems in a safe and compliant environment.
  • Diagnose and repair faults and maintain domestic air source heat pump systems.

    Rationale:
    The Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PRIB) is a SAQA registered Professional Body which has the responsibility to ensure that the skills in the plumbing industry meet the requirements to provide effective and competent Heat Pump Installation services. The industry's constituencies identified the need to address new technology within the industry as well as the growing critical need for alternative energy sources.

    Domestic air source heat pump technology is not a new technology, however, the technology has predominantly been used in the applications of space heating and cooling (air conditioning or air to air heat pumps). As a result of the growing concern of global warming and South Africa's energy challenges, the use of heat pumps instead of Solar Water Heating in the heating of water in the domestic and commercial sectors is on the increase. Recent changes to the National Building Regulations prescription, that 50% of hot water needs must be generated from a renewable source. These changes and other factors have resulted in the growth and the increasing demand for the use of Air to Water Heat pumps as an alternate water heating method in a plumbing installation.

    The learners who will enter into this industry will come from different areas such as school leavers with relevant qualifications; workers already within the industry, already qualified plumbers will also enrol for up skilling as practising artisans in the Heat Pump Installations. Obtaining this qualification will also improve the employability of individuals in the relevant sub sectors of the plumbing industry.

    This qualification resides as one of several in the construction industry and makes allowance for any feeder occupations to gain access to the Heat Pump Installer occupation. The Heat Pump Installer qualification also makes provision for people to progress within this discipline to areas of specialisation including mounting heat pump systems, heat pump system installation, testing, commissioning, housekeeping, assessment, diagnosis, fault finding, repair and maintenance activities.

    The main benefit of this qualification for the learner is that the learner has an opportunity to be recognised as a qualified Heat Pump Installer with a well-structured, relevant and current competencies and will be able to have access to entrepreneurial opportunities within the plumbing environment. In addition, the learner will possess usable competencies whether as an employee or employer. Alternative energy is critical for the wellbeing of the general society and the lack or absence thereof, will have a very negative impact on society. The economy will grow positively when saving on a scarce resource such as coal when managed efficiently by qualified people. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.

    RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • NQF Level 3 with Mathematics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 642602002-KM-01, Theory of Water, NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 642602002-KM-02, Heat Pump Tools, Equipment and Components, NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 642602002-KM-03, Heat Pump Systems, NQF Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 642602002-KM-04, Preparation, Installation and Maintenance Theory for Heat Pump Systems, NQF Level 4, 6 Credits.
    Total number of Credits for Knowledge Modules: 14.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 642602002-PM-01, Plan and prepare for the mounting of domestic air source heat pump systems, NQF Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642602002-PM-02, Read and interpret construction drawings and specifications, NQF Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642602002-PM-03, Handle, lift and position heat pump, NQF Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • 642602002-PM-04, Mount domestic air source heat pump system, NQF Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • 642602002-PM-05, Erect, use and dismantle access equipment for construction work, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 642602002-PM-06, Prepare and plan for the installation of domestic air source heat pump systems in a safe and compliance environment, NQF Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 642602002-PM-07, Install domestic air source heat pump systems, NQF Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 642602002-PM-08, Conduct maintenance and make repairs to domestic air source heat pump systems, NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 23.

    This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules:
  • 642602002-WM-01, Processes and procedures for mounting domestic air source heat pump systems, NQF Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 642602002-WM-02, Site preparation and planning processes for the installation of domestic air source heat pump systems in specific environmental conditions, NQF Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 642602002-WM-03, Processes and procedures for domestic air source heat pump system installation, testing, commissioning and housekeeping, NQF Level 4, 10 Credits.
  • 642602002-WM-04, Procedures and processes for assessment, diagnosis, fault finding, repair and maintenance activities, NQF Level 4, 9 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 30. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Prepare and plan for the installation of domestic air source heat pump systems.
    2. Install domestic air source heat pump systems in a safe and compliant environment.
    3. Diagnose and repair faults and maintain domestic air source heat pump system. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Construction drawings are read and interpreted to indicate aspects of project specifications.
  • Project specifications are used to determine quantities and quality of work of equipment and materials required for a specific task.
  • Work area is prepared and set out in accordance with control positions and levels in drawings or instructions received from the supervising plumber are indicated.
  • Hand, power tools and equipment are identified, selected and used in accordance with OHSA and SHEQ requirements.
  • Existing services and built-in items are identified and protected against damage.
  • Knowledge and understanding to prepare and plan for the installation of domestic air source heat pump systems is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Heat pumps are positioned by following the basic principles of outdoor installation, ventilation and clearances.
  • Domestic air source heat pump systems are mounted on a variety of roof, wall and floor types as per procedure.
  • Scaffold boards are free of damage and obstruction and the area where the scaffolding is erected is level and free of obstruction are checked.
  • The floor or roof is prepared in terms of level area available, height to raise the unit, anchor bolts, vibration pads, and gutters for water outlets where required for the installation of domestic air source heat pump systems.
  • Outlet side of heat pumps are plumbed to the temperature and pressure safety valve port of the geyser in accordance with the horizontal and vertical distances of the piping as well as precautionary measures for disturbances of the stratification are understood and displayed.
  • Knowledge and understanding to install domestic air source heat pump systems in a safe and compliance environment is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Scheduled maintenance is carried out to prevent a breakdown or failure of any component of the system.
  • Unscheduled maintenance is carried out to repair a breakdown or failure of any component of the system.
  • Faults are diagnosed by means of a process of elimination.
  • Knowledge and understanding to diagnose and repair faults and maintain domestic air source heat pump system is demonstrated.

    Integrated Assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria.

    The external assessment model requires that the external assessment will be conducted through a combination of a written assessment and practical task at an accredited assessment centre. The written examination will be concluded at an accredited assessment centre and marked by registered assessors. Practical tasks will also be assessed by registered assessors. The combination of the written and practical assessment will be conducted over a period of one working day. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    As air to water domestic air source heat pump heating is relatively new, within a hot water plumbing heating application the international comparability is very limited. While numerous product skill programs can be found only three accredited occupational certificates could be found in the United Kingdom and Australia to compare with.

    It must however, be noted that internationally good practices is when any person working on a plumbing installation, which includes that of installing a domestic air source heat pump to a hot water plumbing installation, must be a suitably qualified as a plumber.

    The Waxman Training Academy in the United Kingdom offers a Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) Level 3 LOGIC Heat Pump Installation Course. This course enables candidates to confidently specify and design air source (up to 16kW) and ground source (up to 24kW) heat pump systems. Candidates also have the opportunity to interact with a range of products and working test rigs, learning how to enlist manufacturers' support where necessary. The academy also offers other related courses such as QCF Level 3 LOGIC Solar Thermal Installation Course. These qualifications may not be at the same level as our qualification but the outcomes are very similar. Some of the outcomes that these qualifications focus on are to:
  • Install, commission and handover heat pumps (non-refrigerant circuits).
  • Know the requirements to inspect, service and maintain heat pump system installations (non-refrigerant circuits).
  • Inspect, service and maintain heat pump installations (non-refrigerant circuits).
  • Know the requirements to install, commission and handover heat pump systems (non-refrigerant circuits).

    The (British Plumbing Employers Council) BPEC also in the United Kingdom offers a QCF - Level 3 award in the installation and maintenance of heat pumps. This is a nationally recognised qualification in the installation and maintenance of heat pump systems. The qualification is developed from the National Occupational Standards and is recognised by the Micro-generation Certification Scheme (MCS) registration bodies as an acceptable qualification to join one of their respective schemes.

    In Australia the Air conditioning and Mechanical Services Plumber under the Unit Group 3341 Plumbers qualifications have been found also to be similar to this one. Candidates who complete this qualification are equipped with skills that make them capable of performing the following: installs, maintains and repairs piping, ducting and equipment for heating, cooling and ventilation of buildings or vessels. Registration or licensing is required.

    Conclusion:
    The qualification compares favourably with the three in terms of outcomes. The duration and credits allocation may be different but these qualifications were found to compare with this one on its objectives. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification is anticipated that it will articulate in future with Occupational Certificate Solar Water Heater Installer.

    This qualification articulates horizontally to the following:
  • Occupational Certificate: Plumber, NQF Level 4, ID 91782.

    Vertically the qualification articulates with:
  • Diploma in Construction in Plumbing. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for external assessment:
    In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statements of results and work experience including Foundational Learning Competence or equivalent.

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers:
    Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website.

    Curriculum:
    The curriculum title and code is: Occupational Certificate: Heat Pump Installer: 642602002.

    This qualification covers the following recorded trades:
    None.

    Occupational note:
    In accordance with the Building Regulations, no person other than a qualified Plumber can supervise and sign-off an installation.

    Part Qualifications:
    This qualification does not have any associated part qualifications. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.