Go Back

Posted on January 23, 2019 by

hvactech

The Road to Becoming an HVAC Technician

hvactech

With skilled labor becoming more of a demand than ever, it’s important to get the inside scoop on becoming an HVAC technician. Have you always wanted a career that’s outside of the office?

Enjoy the hands-on approach to fixing problems? Do you have an analytical and problem-solving mind? Add in some basic customer service skills, and you have the foundation the becoming an HVAC technician.

Living in an area like Florida, where temperatures are hot, can make an HVAC technician more in demand than ever. So if you have the interest, read on to learn what it takes to make it in the industry.

The Steps to Becoming HVAC Certified

technicianstepsBecoming an HVAC technician starts with education. Whether you enter an apprenticeship or a technical college, you’re looking at anywhere from 6-months two 2-years of basic education and foundation.

Upon completion of your program, you’ll be required to take a standardized test. This testing is to get your license and certification, which allows you to legally perform work in the state.

All states are different, so be sure to understand the rules and regulations for your area, so you plan your education course accordingly.

What Types of HVAC Repairs Would You Do?

Once you’re certified and licensed and have your first gig, you may be wondering, what exactly is the day of an HVAC technician?

While it will always depend on the number of service calls, most of your work will stick withing AC repairs and installations. This can range anywhere from:

  • repairlistEvaporator coil cleanings and air filter replacements.
  • Air conditioner diagnostics.
  • Freon level checks.
  • Blower motor replacements.
  • Electrical inspections.
  • Air handler replacements.

In addition, as your experience grows, you can become more involved with larger scale projects like new system installations, ductwork repairs, and even efficiency testing.

The most important thing is to continue your education. The more you know as an HVAC technician, the more in-demand your skills will become.

Investing in HVAC Tools

Any HVAC technician is always going to be as good as the tools he or she has. On the basic level, you’ll always need a set of pliers, screwdrivers, drills, bits, stud finders, wiring tools, and safety equipment like goggles and gloves. Once you get into the higher levels of HVAC, you’re looking at:

  • Welding equipment
  • Coil fin straightener
  • Electrical meters
  • Leak detectors
  • Hand seamers

In many cases, your employer will provide you with the equipment you need. This is why it’s also a good idea to start with an apprenticeship before striking out on your own.

The Importance of HVAC Education Programs

educationAs a certified HVAC technician, you’ll have to consistently undergo training and education to keep your license in good standing.

This is a good thing as it improves your skills and also keeps you on the cutting edge of new technologies. The more expertise you have, particularly with emerging technology and techniques, the more in demand you will be.

Share this blog with your friends, and be sure to keep doing research. While becoming an HVAC technician requires education and dedication, it’s a rewarding career path that helps homeowners around the country.