HVAC is an abbreviation for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. An HVAC technician specializes in installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Some people are highly proficient in all three aspects of the job while others prefer to specialize themselves in either installation or maintaining and repairing.
Quick Facts on the HVAC Industry
In 2016, HVAC technicians earned an average total salary of $ 45,910. There are around 292,000 people in this particular profession and most of them work for construction contractors. The job of HVAC technicians is usually full-time, but overtime may apply in some cases. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has predicted faster growth in this industry by 2024 and has designated it a “Bright Outlook” occupation.
A Day as an HVAC Technician
An HVAC technician will usually:
• oversee installations
• maintain or repair HVAC equipment and systems
• provide excellent customer service
• offer technical support
• design and install wiring systems
• carry out pipe and tube testing
• run after-hours calls as required
• assemble, position, and mount HVAC equipment
• study blueprints and other specifications
• install, connect, or adjust thermostats, humidistats, or timers
Training and Licensing Requirements
Before taking on the responsibilities of an HVAC technician, the latter usually require formal training or some post-secondary instruction at a trade or technical school. A three to five year paid apprenticeship can also be accepted. Apprentices require their skills both in the classroom and on-the-job and some states require HVAC technicians to be licensed through a written test. Click here to learn more about the knowledge, skills, and abilities that an HVAC technician require.
Soft Skills of HVAC Experts
Along with their knowledge and skills in HVAC equipment and systems, HVAC experts are also required to be good at:
• listening – to understand their customers’ exact issues
• speaking – to share information and knowledge to their clients
• time management – they need to be able to meet schedules
• critical thinking – they need to have a strategic way of doing things
General Expectations from HVAC Professionals
Some general requirements that you can expect are as follows:
• observe all company procedures and safety rules
• ability to work independently and deliver results on time
• skilled at following directions
• be positive and caring
• can lift up to 50 pounds and carry heavy items such as ladders
• can work from heights and in small crawl spaces
• be professional
These are the main work carried by HVAC professionals and the requirements that they can expect.
