HVAC Positions Are in Need: What You’ll Do as a Technician and How Much You’ll Take Home

If you’re considering a new, well-paying career, look no further than heating, ventilation and air conditioning. HVAC is one of the most rapidly growing careers available, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which estimates careers in this field will expand by 13 percent by 2028.

There’s a few reasons why these positions are expanding so rapidly. One is homeowners tapping into government refunds to upgrade to more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the ban on R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which impacts older equipment. Lastly, there’s the red-hot real estate market and a home shortage that’s driven an increase in new construction homes.

One of the number one in-demand positions is working as a HVAC technician. Learn more about what they do, how to become one and about how much you can expect to receive.

What Is an HVAC Technician?

A HVAC technician is someone who repairs, installs and maintains heating and cooling units. Most assist both residential and commercial customers. And, most important, you’ll be knowledgeable about:

• Air conditioners
• Furnaces
• Mini-splits and heat pumps
• Thermostats and home zoning
• Indoor air quality products like air filters and air purification systems

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

Is HVAC a Hard Career?

While HVAC can be physically hard, it can also be highly fulfilling. As a technician you’ll be required to be able to:

• Work in extreme settings, including crowded or dirty spaces.
• Work in hot or cold areas since equipment is usually outdoors.
• Work evenings, weekends and overtime during peak demand.

One of the most common misconceptions about HVAC is that it’s a blue-collar position. You have to have a distinct skill set, specialized instruction and ongoing endorsements.

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

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

How to Become an HVAC Technician

To become an HVAC technician, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED, as well as comprehensive instruction. Other more specialized (and higher paying) HVAC jobs typically require additional education or endorsements.

You can get your certification by taking classes at a community college or trade school. How long it takes to become an HVAC technician depends on the program, which is often six months to two years. Your employer could also want NATE certification. This refers to North American Technician Excellence, this industry-leading endorsement improves your technical knowledge to help you better serve customers.

Career Explorer noted that technicians familiar with tablets, electronics and troubleshooting will be in big demand as equipment updates.

Another advantage of working in HVAC is little to no educational debt.

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

A Day in the Life of an HVAC Technician

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

As a technician, you’ll visit different locations for repair, maintenance or installation work. Some tasks may take longer than others, so the number of calls you can go on might vary.

As we went over before, you should be used to working outdoors in extreme weather, plus in dirty or cramped spots. If you work in a customer-facing role, solid customer service skills are always an advantage.

Average Salary for HVAC Technicians and Other HVAC Careers

Because HVAC is a rapidly expanding field, your salary will show 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 fluctuate based on your locationand its cost of living.

Other than owning your own business, there are several other additional career opportunities. These can be:

• HVAC manager, $72,515 average salary
• HVAC service manager, $71,176 average salary

Where HVAC Technicians Are in High Demand

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

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

Where HVAC Technicians Will Be in High Demand in the Future

Projections Central, who develops long-term occupational projections, anticipates these states to have the highest 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 biggest number of new positions during that time frame are forecasted 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 growth is forecasted to fuel growth in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Grow Your HVAC Career with Osceola Air, LLC

HVAC technicians are required across the USA and in St. Cloud. To find out more about our openings, go to our careers page or call us at 407-954-8626