Heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems technicians are often referred to as HVAC technicians. They install, maintain and repair systems by adjusting system controls and testing the performance of the systems. HVAC technicians are trained in installation, maintenance and repair and often specialize in all three aspects. Some also specialize in one type of equipment, such as hydronics, solar panels or commercial refrigeration. When heating systems are not being used during the summer, HVAC technicians do maintenance work like replacing filters, ducts and other system parts.
HVAC Technicians Schools and Degrees
Programs in heating, air-conditioning and ventilation are offered by many secondary and postsecondary trade schools and junior and community colleges. The course may last for anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. HVAC technicians are taught theories of temperature control, equipment design and construction and electronics. Accrediting agencies like HVAC Excellence, the National Center for Construction Education and Research and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Accreditation have set certain academic standards for HVAC programs. After completing these programs, new technicians need around 6 months to 2 years of experience before they are considered proficient.
Job Requirements
In order to become licensed, HVAC technicians need to pass a test. For these tests, some states or localities require extensive knowledge of electrical codes, while some require focusing more on specific HVAC knowledge. Completion of an apprenticeship program or 2 to 5 years of experience can be helpful. Technicians who purchase or work with refrigerants must be certified in their respective area. For this, a technician must pass a written examination. The three possible areas of certification are servicing small appliances, high-pressure refrigerants and low-pressure refrigerants.
High school courses in math, applied physics, mechanical drawing, chemistry, electronics, blueprint reading and computer applications can prove helpful for this field. Knowledge of plumbing or electrical work also helps. HVAC technicians should be in good physical condition as they need to lift and move heavy equipment.
Nature of Work
HVAC technicians work around climate-control equipment that need to be installed, repaired or serviced. They usually work in homes, retail establishments, hospitals, office buildings and factories. They are exposed to hazards like electrical shock, burns, muscle strains and other injuries from handling heavy equipment.
HVAC Technicians Jobs and Outlook
According to research in 2006, HVAC technicians held about 292,000 jobs in the U.S. That number is expected to grow by 9% during the next ten years. Employment is the highest in the following industries:
Building Equipment Contractors
Direct Selling Establishments
Hardware, and Plumbing and Heating Equipment and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers
Local Government
The mean hourly wage for HVAC technicians in the US is about $19.54, while the mean annual wages are around $40,630.
Job Numbers and Growth
HVAC technicians nationally number 292,000. The unemployment level for workers is low, compared to other occupations. About 4% of employees were unemployed recently.
Area Job Conditions
HVAC technicians are relatively common in Panama City (Florida), Wichita Falls (Texas), and Lakeland (Florida). They are rarer in Valdosta (Georgia), San Jose (California), and San Francisco (California).
Workers are paid highest in Yuba City (California), San Jose (California), and Oakland (California), and lowest in McAllen (Texas), Flagstaff (Arizona), and Laredo (Texas).
Training and Education
Employees are generally expected to have long-term on-the-job training. About 3% of HVAC technicians hold a bachelor's degree or better. Currently 39% of workers have some college education, though not a degree. About 58% of employees were able to get their jobs with a high-school diploma. Recommended schools are shown in the column to the right; request information from them to help you decide which if any could help you with this career.
Part-Time Work and Self-Employment
About 4% of HVAC technicians work less than full-time. In 13% of the cases, workers work for themselves.
HVAC Technicians by Metropolitan Area (city and its surroundings)
In the table below, a Job Density near 0% means the area has an average number of people in this occupation, for its population. A higher or lower Job Density (e.g., +22% or -45%) tells you there are that many more or fewer workers of that type there than in the average US metro area. So, the higher the number, the more common the occupation.
Schools recommended for people interested in this career. Request info with quick online forms. These particular schools are noted for getting back to people fast.
Schools recommended for people interested in this career. Request info with quick online forms. These particular schools are noted for getting back to people fast.