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

There are a few reasons why these jobs are expanding so rapidly. One is homeowners using government refunds to upgrade to more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the ban on R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which influences old equipment. Finally, there’s the red-hot home market and a home shortage that’s driven a boost in new construction residences.

One of the top needed positions is working as an HVAC technician. Find out about what they do, how to become one and about how much you can expect to earn.

What Is an HVAC Technician?

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

Some are HVAC-R professionals, which means they also can take care of refrigeration.

Is an HVAC Career Hard?

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

  • Work in difficult settings, including crowded or dirty spaces.
  • Work in hot or cold areas as equipment is typically outdoors.
  • Work evenings, weekends and overtime during peak days.

One of the most common misconceptions about HVAC is that it’s a blue-collar job. It requires a distinct skill set, in-depth instruction and ongoing endorsements.

It’s a fantastic career option if you want to:

  • Not have a lot of educational debt.
  • Avoid being stuck at a desk or in an office.
  • Have job security knowing your position can’t be outsourced.
  • Be your own boss and run your own profitable business.

How You Can Start Your Careers as an HVAC Technician

To become an HVAC technician, you will require a high school diploma or GED, as well as comprehensive training. Other more specialized (and higher paying) HVAC jobs typically require extra schooling or endorsements.

You can be certified by attending classes at a community college or trade school. How long it takes to become an HVAC technician relies on the program, which is typically six months to two years. Your employer could also expect NATE certification. Known as North American Technician Excellence, this highly regarded endorsement increases your technical knowledge to help you better serve customers.

Career Explorer reports that technicians who can work with tablets, electronics and troubleshooting will be in large demand as equipment updates.

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

According to Midwest Technical Institute, attending a technical or trade school typically costs around $15,000. A community college typically runs around $5,000 annually. In comparison, 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 work in repairs, you may work early, late or be on call. If you work in construction/home building or management, you may have more of a fixed schedule during normal business hours.

As a technician, you’ll respond to different locations for repair, maintenance or installation service. Some work 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 used to working outdoors in extreme weather, in addition to dirty or cramped spaces. If you work in a customer-facing role, strong customer service skills are always a plus.

Average Salary for {Professional Technicians|Technicians|Full-Time Technicians and Other HVAC Careers

As 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 receive between $56,600 and $68,000. However, salaries may be different based on your state and its cost of living.

In addition to owning your own business, there are a wide range of extra 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 United States, but even more so in Florida, California, Texas, New York and Illinois. According to hvacclasses.org, these states employ the highest number of HVAC workers and are experiencing high construction growth. Here’s why:

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

Where HVAC Technicians Will Be in High Demand in the Future

Projections Central, who creates long-term occupational projections, forecasts 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 greatest 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 development is forecasted to fuel expansion in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Engineer Your HVAC Career with Dave's Diversified Services

HVAC technicians are needed across the USA and in Front Royal. To discover more about our openings, go to our careers page or call us at 540-636-3396 now!