Does working on heating and air conditioning systems sound interesting?
Are you a problem solver who loves diagnosing – and fixing issues?
Then a job as an HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) technician may be a perfect fit. Below is everything you need to know to become an HVAC technician as well as some additional information to help you decide if it is right for you.
HVAC techs have great job stability and fair wages, but as with most trade jobs it does have some down sides too. While this is one of our most recommended career paths, you do want to be sure you can meet all the requirements to do the job well.
If working in the home building industry appeals to you, check out our article is homebuilding a good career path?
What Does An HVAC Technician Do?
HVAC technicians can be responsible for so many different duties and every day may be a bit different. Below are some of the most common HVAC services an HVAC technician may be required to do:
- Repairing or installing climate control systems like air conditioning or heating units
- Working on refrigeration systems
- Provide customers with maintenance services for their HVAC system units
- Keep detailed and accurate records of services performed for clients
- Provide customers with quotes and discussions about repair or installation options
- Testing an inspection of various systems and components to look for issues
- Work with electrical parts and wiring
- Read blueprints and diagrams
- Welding pipes
Read our article on whether HVAC is a good career to learn a bit more about this trade career!
How To Become An HVAC Technician
What Does An HVAC Technician Do?
HVAC technicians can be responsible for so many different duties and every day may be a bit different. Below are some of the most common HVAC services an HVAC technician may be required to do:
- Repairing or installing climate control systems like air conditioning or heating units
- Working on refrigeration systems
- Provide customers with maintenance services for their HVAC system units
- Keep detailed and accurate records of services performed for clients
- Provide customers with quotes and discussions about repair or installation options
- Testing an inspection of various systems and components to look for issues
- Work with electrical parts and wiring
- Read blueprints and diagrams
- Welding pipes
Read our article on whether HVAC is a good career to learn a bit more about this trade career!
HVAC Schools
So, are you now more interested in becoming an HVAC technician? Below are some trade schools that are near you that offer HVAC courses so you can get started!
Click the info button and a representative from a school near you will contact you to address any questions or concerns you may have about attending their school. This is free service, so go ahead and reach out and learn more about HVAC training programs near you.
Recommended Skills For HVAC Technicians
Getting education and training are only part of the process! Below are some skills that will help you be an amazing HVAC technician.
Because you may be in small or tight spaces – it is important to be fit and agile. Customer service is critical as well since you will be helping both residential and commercial clients and need to be able to communicate well with them
Basic math skills will help with addressing unit needs for various sized orders. Troubleshooting is a large part of what this job entails so being able to find issues are key to your success. Having these skills will definitely be an asset to your career growth!
Pros & Cons Of Being An HVAC Technician
Just like every other job, HVAC technicians have some pros and cons to deal with every day. You have to decide which outweighs which.
PROS
- HVAC technicians can earn a good wage with experience.
- Job stability as both residential and commercial buildings will always have HVAC units that need repairing or installing.
- Every day is different, no job will be the same.
- Opportunity for travel and easy relocation.
CONS
- Changing technologies mean staying current with classes or training.
- May have to work nights or weekends for emergency calls.
- Physically demanding.
- Can be hard to work with some customers.
How Much Do HVAC Technicians Make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual pay for HAVC technicians in 2020 was $50,590.
Aside from experience, your location, and employer also play a big role in your salary.
The ability earn higher wages is possible through advanced certifications.
HVAC Technician Job Outlook
The number of jobs for HVAC technicians will be slower than many other careers in terms of growth.
Most of the job openings that will happen will be due to retirement or those that leave the field for other careers.