Heating Ventilation Air Condition systems, popularly called HVAC systems are the lifeblood of any interior environment, whether it’s a house, a grocery shop, a mall, an office, an industrial facility, an airport, or a hotel. Every business and residential facility requires a reliable HVAC system to maintain good air quality and efficient heating and cooling.
An HVAC technician works to verify that a home’s or building’s climate control system is operating properly in order to maintain a comfortable temperature and humidity level. To become an HVAC technician, you must first gain the correct training programs and mentoring to perfect the art and learn how to handle various materials.
Are you interested in a career as an HVAC technician? This post reviews everything you need to know about HVAC technicians and how much HVAC technicians make.
Who is a HVAC Technician?
An HVAC technician is in charge of a variety of tasks linked to a building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. An HVAC technician, in addition to installing new units, replaces old units, fixes damaged equipment and conducts routine maintenance to keep units running properly. They may work on units in completed structures or in buildings under development. HVAC technicians might work as independent contractors or for maintenance businesses.
How to become an HVAC Technician?
If you’re interested in a career as an HVAC technician, this section serves as a guide to achieving your career dream!
STEP 1: Get your high school degree or General education diploma (GED)
To become an HVAC technician, a student must first graduate high school or obtain a GED. If you are training for a job as an HVAC technician while still in high school, attending a trade school, or taking physics classes, math will help you learn mechanical skills and give vital information that will benefit you in your future work.
STEP 2: Enroll in an HVAC training program
A training program is required for HVAC technicians. A certificate program, which may be finished in as little as 10 months, is the quickest way to certification. Some HVAC technicians choose to pursue a two-year associate degree or a four-year bachelor’s degree at a college or university.
College degree programs involve more general education and optional studies, whereas certificate programs only cover HVAC knowledge and abilities. Follow-up training and higher-level degrees give more job prospects. HVAC training courses may involve studies in HVAC controls such as voltage, air quality, and resistance, as well as various tools, such as calibration devices.
STEP 3: Apprenticeship (OPTIONAL)
Apprenticeship is an important way for HVAC Technicians to gain experience. Although not required, most companies want a new HVAC technician to complete a three to five-year apprenticeship.
An apprenticeship, which is offered by trade unions and associations, allows aspiring HVAC technician to further their education while simultaneously gaining on-the-job experience with a more experienced HVAC expert.
Some apprenticeships can also be used to replace training programs, with apprentices receiving a nationally recognized certification upon completion. Apprentices are compensated for the hours they spend watching and assisting with tasks. This is a good opportunity for new HVAC professionals to learn how to use their abilities in a practical context.
Related Article: 10 Most Expensive Maserati Cars In The World
STEP 4: Get your state license
To operate as an HVAC technician, the state in which you intend to work must license you. Although the particular qualifications for state licensing differ, the Environment protection agency requires one certification in all states: the Section 608 Technician Certification. It enables a technician to operate with refrigerants, which is a necessary job function.
Section 608 Technician Certification is available in three levels: Small appliances are covered by Type I certification, high-pressure heating, and cooling units are covered by Type II certification, and low-pressure heating and cooling units are covered by Type III certification.
Each test has 25 questions, with 18 right answers necessary to pass. If a technician passes all three tests, they will get the universal certification, which is highly encouraged in order to optimize their career alternatives.
STEP 5: Gain additional certification (OPTIONAL)
Earning extra qualifications is not essential to work as an HVAC technician, but they can help you stand out from the crowd. North American Technician Excellence is a national nonprofit organization that offers four optional credentials to HVAC technicians. The four optional certificates are:
Ready-to-Work Permit
The first-grade certificate assesses your knowledge and abilities for an entry-level HVAC technician job. It covers the following topics: components, tools, measurements, and units, electrical safety, fundamental heat transfer, and general safety. The test is intended for technicians in their first six months of employment and comprises 50 questions that must be answered in 90 minutes.
HVAC Technician Certification
The second level certificate is intended for HVAC professionals in their early careers, often with six months to one year of professional experience. Safety, tools, fundamental building words, employing basic science, establishing ideal conditions, and collecting temperature and humidity measurements are among the topics addressed on the test. The exam lasts two and a half hours and comprises 100 questions.
Certificate for Core and Specialty Tests
This test is necessary for professionals with more than two years of experience before trying any NATE specialized certifications. The exam includes safety, tools, basic building, fundamental science, obtaining ideal conditions, measuring temperature and humidity, and basic electrical. The 50-question test takes 90 minutes to complete.
Certification for Senior Level Efficiency Analyst
This qualification is intended for senior-level technicians with at least five years of experience. In addition, an HVAC technician must have at least two NATE specialist certificates. Load calculation, indoor air, and environment control, equipment selection, hydronic distribution, air distribution, system performance, and scheduled maintenance are all included in the exam. The test consists of 100 questions, with a time limit of four hours to finish.
Skills Required to Become an HVAC Technician
It is frequently necessary for people considering a career in the HVAC business to get skills that will assist them in securing employment and performing responsibilities efficiently.
HVAC skills may be highlighted on job application forms, allowing professionals to emphasize their qualifications and expertise in the sector. The skills required in an HVAC technician include:
#1. Troubleshooting skills
Troubleshooting skills are one of the most vital skills needed in every HVAC technician. Professionals in this business not only build HVAC systems but also diagnose faults with malfunctioning systems.
Finding and fixing problems is a crucial skill that allows these specialists to effectively respond to consumer complaints and difficulties. HVAC technicians frequently think imaginatively and ask probing questions in order to create effective solutions to system problems.
#2. Communication skills
As an HVAC technician, without effective communication skills, your chances of success in this field are greatly reduced. This skill aids people working in the HVAC industry in efficiently interacting with their clients and coworkers.
It is necessary to be able to describe HVAC systems to consumers in simple, simple terminology. Successful HVAC specialists, who ask pertinent questions and respond to client problems as soon as possible also used active listening.
#3. Customer Service Skill
Customer service skills are vital for HVAC technicians because these jobs frequently require engaging with consumers. This can help them build long-term professional connections with customers and a network of repeat customers.
Customer service abilities enable these individuals to positively represent their organization and differentiate their services from rivals. Having good consumer service skills will help in building your career forward.
Read: How To Buy SpaceX Stock
#4. Technical Skills
An HVAC technician is required to have core technical skills, as this will aid you in reading blueprints. Being able to read blueprints is a critical part of your job as an HVAC technician. It allows you to adhere to design parameters while implementing an HVAC system.
Those working on an HVAC system may comprehend and execute critical elements by reviewing these designs. HVAC specialists who grasp the layout and subtleties of blueprints may frequently position components in the correct locations during installation.
#5. Hand and Power Tool Skill
Being able to use hand and power tools properly is important to ensure safety on a particular job site. Typically gained through training, this knowledge allows professionals to properly use such general tools as a screwdriver or drill.
HVAC professionals may also commonly use industry-specific tools, such as carbon monoxide testers and acetylene torches, when completing projects for clients.
#6. Detail-oriented
Being detail-oriented is helpful for a career in HVAC because these occupations require examining minor components of a bigger system. When fixing a certain item, you may meticulously follow measures to guarantee you do not overlook a critical duty. Attention to detail can also assist HVAC experts in keeping accurate records of the work they do.
How much does an HVAC Technician Earn?
It’s normal to wonder how much you can make from a career as an HVAC technician. This job pays well and has a wide range of compensation dependent on expertise and location. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual average income for an HVAC technician in the United States is $24.69 per hour, with an additional $6,375 in overtime each year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment will expand by around 15% faster than the average for all occupations until at least 2026.
An HVAC technician has an estimated salary of $24.69 per hour.
You must have core technical and troubleshooting skills.
Training programs can take between 6months and three years to complete
HVAC technicians may be exposed to electrical risks, hazardous chemicals, and airborne contaminants.
Conclusion
HVAC technicians play a critical role in every maintenance in every residential or office building complex. The career option is one of the most popular jobs in the United States. This post has clearly reviewed everything you need to know about HVAC technicians: skills required in the industry, salary, and steps to becoming an HVAC technician.
References
- learnhowtobecome.org – How to Become a HVAC Technician
- bestcolleges.com – 5 Most Important Skills Needed to Be an HVAC Technician
- neit.edu – What is an HVAC Technician?
- thebalancecareers.com – What Does an HVAC Technician Do?
- indeed.com – HVAC Technician salary in United States
Recommendations
