Become an HVAC Technician

AC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. HVAC systems are present in all types of structures, including offices, residences, commercial centers, retail establishments, hospitals, schools, and the like. HVAC systems are designed to provide climate control, which includes regulating temperature, humidity, ventilation, and air quality. In order to meet health, safety, and environmental standards, as well as ensure the comfort of the inhabitants of the structure, HVAC systems must be installed correctly and maintained regularly throughout the year. This is where the HVAC technician comes in.

HVAC systems are made up of a complex network of electrical and mechanical components. HVAC technicians are responsible for understanding all aspects of the HVAC system in order to both perform installation and yearly maintenance. Part engineer and part mechanic, the HVAC technician performs a unique service that cannot be replicated by untrained individuals. Due to the development of new and more intricate HVAC systems, the demand for skilled HVAC technicians is expected to increase by 9% over the next decade. Pursuing a career as an HVAC technician will guarantee job stability and excellent compensation for many years to come. Starting work as an HVAC technician isn’t difficult, but requires a combination of formal training and on-the-job experience, usually acquired through an apprenticeship.

Training

In the past, many HVAC technicians received the majority of their training on-the-job. However, the advances in technology have changed the HVAC industry somewhat and raised the expectations of employers. Modern contractors prefer to hire HVAC technicians that have completed some level of formal education. Luckily, many vocational schools and community colleges offer 6-month to 2-year programs in HVAC subjects. The United States Armed Forces also offers a program in HVAC. Some programs put a focus on newly emerging aspects of the HVAC technicians job, such as solar energy, which is appropriate for students who wish to work in a more specialized capacity after graduation. However, a well-rounded HVAC program will teach you the skills needed to install, maintain, and repair an HVAC system of varying levels of complexity.

General courses found in most HVAC programs include such subjects as math, mechanical drawing, applied chemistry, electronics, blueprint reading, and computer applications. More specific classes are temperature theory, temperature control, equipment design, construction, and installation.

Apprenticeship

Many HVAC technicians receive a large among of training through an apprenticeship. Apprenticeship programs are commonly organized by local chapters of HVAC industries, such as the Air-Conditioning Contractors or American, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors National Association, etc. Apprenticeships usually last 3 to 5 years and include a combination of in-class instruction and paid on-the-job training. An apprenticeship is a great way to learn about a specific career within the HVAC industry while acquiring the skills necessary to launch a career as a technician later on, without having to enroll in general education programs. Subjects covered in apprenticeship classes include safety practices, blueprint reading, theory and design of heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems, as well as regulations and laws governing HVAC system use.

Certification

HVAC technicians do not need to be certified in order to find employment, but earning certification demonstrates a high standard of education and mastery of the profession. HVAC technicians who do become certified often are awarded more lucrative contracts than those who choose not to become certified. There are currently two organizations that offer certification for HVAC technicians: North American Technicians Excellence (NATE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). NATE offers national certification in HVAC services and installation. The EPA offers 4 levels of certification to HVAC technicians, ranging from small appliances to low-pressure appliances. The per-requisites for certification vary, but usually include a minimum amount of work experience and passage of an exam covering common HVAC subjects.

Employment Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts excellent job opportunities for HVAC technicians over the next 10 years. One major reason for this is the development of more advanced HVAC systems. An increasing focus on creating environmentally friendly HVAC systems is also a key factor in the demand for HVAC technicians. Technicians who have a combination of education and certification will experience the most advancement in their careers. The demand for HVAC technicians depends entirely on the amount of construction in any area. In general, HVAC technicians who work in HVAC maintenance will find more steady employment than those who simply install HVAC systems.

Figures courtesy of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Employment & Wages database.