HVAC Career Overview

By Publisher
| Last Updated September 24, 2024

Career Information

Salary

HVAC technicians earn a median annual wage of $57,300, according to Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) estimates.* The top HVAC pay is more than $84,250.

Job Openings & Outlook

Employment in the HVAC trade is expected to expand by nine percent from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).*

On average, 42,500 jobs for HVAC technicians should become available each year over that same time frame.*

Key Benefits of Becoming an HVAC Technician

A sense of accomplishment: It can be intensely rewarding to fix problematic equipment or install new systems because your hard work directly impacts people's ability to feel comfortable in their environments.

Long-term stability: Controlling indoor climates is important not just for people's comfort, but also for efficiently operating computers and machinery. Refrigeration is crucial for safely storing perishable foods and medical supplies. HVAC technicians have essential expertise that will always be needed.

Mental stimulation and work variety: HVAC is one of the best trades to learn because it allows you to develop skills in several different areas, including electrical work, plumbing, welding, pipefitting, and sheet metal.

What Does an HVAC Technician Do?

HVAC technicians are experts in indoor climate control. They install and service systems that control temperature and air quality. Some also set up and maintain refrigeration systems that allow the transport and storage of perishable foods and medicines (which is why the trade is sometimes referred to as HVAC/R).

HVAC technicians' job duties can depend on whether they specialize in working with a particular type of equipment (e.g., furnaces or refrigeration systems) in either the installation or service side of the business. That said, typical tasks can include:

• Installing furnaces, heat pumps, and air conditioning units
• Installing the ductwork that carries treated air throughout a building
• Following blueprints and specifications used in the installation of systems and components such as:
  • Air ducts
  • Vents
  • Pumps
  • Water and fuel supply lines
• Connecting electrical wiring and controls
• Charging refrigeration systems with the proper refrigerants
• Conserving, recovering, and recycling refrigerants for reuse or ensuring that they are disposed of properly
• Venting refrigerants into the appropriate cylinders
• Performing routine maintenance, such as:
  • Checking for leaks
  • Adjusting blowers and burners
  • Changing air filters
  • Lubricating motors
  • Cleaning condenser and evaporator coils
• Diagnosing and repairing problems that are found within any part of a system
• Adjusting the controls of a system and recommending appropriate settings
• Testing the performance of a furnace, heat pump, air conditioning unit, or other piece of equipment to ensure that it operates at peak efficiency
• Using carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide testers to make sure that a customer's equipment operates safely
• Selling service contracts or replacement equipment to customers
• Responding to calls for emergency repairs

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), about two-thirds of HVAC technicians work for plumbing or heating and cooling contractors. Eight percent are self-employed.*

HVAC Specializations

Many HVAC technicians are generalists, but some concentrate on installing new systems or maintaining and repairing systems already in place.

Additionally, some technicians specialize in one type of system. For example, in regions with warm climates, many technicians work exclusively on air conditioning systems.

Other areas of specialization can include:

• Residential heating and cooling
• Commercial or industrial heating and cooling
• Commercial refrigeration
• Mobile refrigeration
• Automotive or marine service
• Geothermal heating and cooling
• Energy auditing

Career FAQs

What makes a good HVAC technician?

It's important for an HVAC tech to exhibit the following characteristics:

• Dependability
• A sense of craftsmanship and pride in your work
• An aptitude for mechanical, hands-on work
• Determination and a strong work ethic
• An interest in the science behind HVAC technology

How dangerous is HVAC work?

Because they work with things like wiring and refrigerants, HVAC technicians face potential hazards like electrical shock, frostbite, and burns. However, following safety protocols can greatly reduce the risk of injury.

Kickstart Your Future in HVAC Today

An HVAC career offers long-term stability, excellent earning potential, and the chance to develop valuable, hands-on skills. As the demand for HVAC technicians continues to grow, now is the perfect time to pursue the necessary training and certifications. By enrolling in an HVAC trade school, you can gain the expertise needed to succeed in this rewarding field. Take the first step toward a bright future by finding a program that fits your goals and interests today.