If you’re thinking about a new, well-paying career, look no further than heating, ventilation and air conditioning. HVAC is one of the quickest-growing careers offered, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which expects careers in this field will increase by 13 percent by 2028.

There are a few reasons why these careers are growing so fast. One is homeowners taking advantage of government refunds to purchase more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the ban on R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which influences old equipment. Lastly, there’s the red-hot housing market and a house shortage that’s driven an increase in new construction homes.

One of the most needed positions is working as an HVAC technician. Discover about what they do, how to become one and about how much you can expect to receive.

What Is an HVAC Technician?

An HVAC technician is an individual who services, installs and maintains heating and cooling units. Most assist both homeowners and business owners. And, most important, you’ll be skilled with:

Some are HVAC-R technicians, which means they also work with refrigeration.

Is an HVAC Career Hard?

While HVAC can be physically challenging, it can also be highly satisfying. As a technician you should be able to:

  • Work in difficult settings, including small or dirty spaces.
  • Work in hot or cold areas because equipment is often outdoors.
  • Work evenings, weekends and overtime during peak demand.

One of the most typical misconceptions about HVAC is that it’s a blue-collar position. You need a certain skill set, extensive instruction and ongoing qualifications.

It’s an excellent career choice if you want to:

  • Avoid excessive student debt.
  • Avoid sitting at a desk or in an office.
  • Have job security realizing your position can’t be outsourced.
  • Work as your own boss and run your own prosperous business.

Steps for Becoming an HVAC Technician

To become an HVAC technician, you should have a high school diploma or GED, in addition to comprehensive instruction. Other more specialized (and higher paying) HVAC jobs typically require extra schooling or endorsements.

You can get your certification by attending classes at a community college or trade school. How long it takes to become an HVAC technician depends on the program, which is typically six months to two years. Your employer might also require NATE certification. This refers to North American Technician Excellence, this highly regarded accreditation expands your technical expertise to help you better serve customers.

Career Explorer says that technicians familiar with tablets, electronics and troubleshooting will be in great demand as equipment becomes more technologically advanced.

Another perk of working in HVAC is little to no instructional debt.

According to Midwest Technical Institute, attending a technical or trade school typically is around $15,000. A community college typically is around $5,000 annually. In contrast, the average student debt for a bachelor’s degree is $25,921.

The Average Career of an HVAC Technician

Your work schedule might vary depending on where you work. If you do repairs, you might work early, late or be on call. If you work in construction/home building or management, you may have more of a set schedule during typical business hours.

As a technician, you’ll visit different locations for repair, maintenance or installation service. Some tasks might need more time than others, so the number of calls you can take care of could vary.

As we mentioned previously, you should be accustomed to working outdoors in extreme weather, plus dirty or cramped spots. If you work in a customer-facing role, good customer service skills are always a plus.

Potential Compensation for {Professional Technicians|Technicians|Full-Time Technicians and Other Careers in HVAC

Because HVAC is a quickly growing industry, your salary will mirror it. The national average salary for an HVAC technician is $49,242, according to ZipRecruiter. Top earners get between $56,600 and $68,000. However, salaries may differ based on your state and its cost of living.

Other than running your own business, there are a few additional career opportunities. These include:

HVAC manager, $72,515 average salary

HVAC service manager, $71,176 average salary

Where the Demand for HVAC Technicians Is Highest

HVAC technicians are needed across the country, but even more so in Florida, California, Texas, New York and Illinois. According to hvacclasses.org, these states employ the greatest number of HVAC workers and are experiencing major construction growth. Here’s why:

  • Florida: Hurricanes, education and healthcare buildings.
  • California: Wildfires, transportation, energy and utility projects.
  • Texas: Hurricanes, energy, utility and other infrastructure projects.
  • New York: Residential and infrastructure upgrades.
  • Illinois: Companies flocking to the Chicago area.

Where HVAC Technicians Will Be in High Demand in the Future

Projections Central, who creates long-term occupational projections, anticipates these states to have the biggest demand for technicians by 2028:

  1. Utah, 31.1%
  2. Colorado, 29.7%
  3. Nevada, 27.9%
  4. Arizona, 21.4%
  5. Iowa, Oregon and Montana, 18.5%
  6. Arkansas, 16.3%
  7. Florida, 16.2%
  8. South Carolina, 16%
  9. Texas, 15.9%
  10. Idaho, 15.7%
  11. Washington, 15.6%
  12. North Carolina, 15.5%
  13. Tennessee, 15.2%
  14. Wyoming, 14.3%
  15. Nebraska, 13.9%
  16. Indiana, 13.8%
  17. North Dakota, 13.8%

Here’s where the highest number of new positions during that time frame are anticipated to be:

  1. Florida, 5,420
  2. Texas, 5,530
  3. California, 4,100
  4. North Carolina, 2,510
  5. New York, 2,290
  6. Colorado, 2,000
  7. Ohio, 1,550
  8. Pennsylvania, 1,510
  9. Virginia, 1,500
  10. Tennessee, 1,360
  11. Washington, 1,290
  12. Georgia, 1,270
  13. New Jersey, 1,170
  14. Utah, 1,170
  15. South Carolina, 1,1060
  16. Indiana, 940
  17. Maryland, 820
  18. Missouri and Arizona, 810
  19. Michigan, 780

Weather and economic improvement is expected to feed expansion in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Build Your HVAC Career with Age Heating & Cooling

HVAC technicians remain in demand across the nation and in Sandpoint. To find out more about our openings, visit our careers page or contact us at 208-603-2210 now!