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

There are a couple of reasons why these careers are increasing so fast. One is homeowners using government refunds to purchase more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the discontinuation of R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which affects old equipment. In conclusion, there’s the red-hot home market and a property shortage that’s driven a bump in new construction residences.

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

What Is an HVAC Technician?

A HVAC technician is a person who fixes, installs and maintains heating and cooling units. Most assist both homeowners and business owners. And, most important, you’ll be knowledgeable about:

Some are HVAC-R professionals, which means they also can do refrigeration.

Is HVAC a Hard Career?

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

  • Work in difficult settings, such as small or dirty spaces.
  • Work in hot or cold areas because equipment is typically outdoors.
  • Work evenings, weekends and overtime during peak times.

One of the most typical misconceptions about HVAC is that it’s a blue-collar job. It requires a specific skill set, in-depth training and ongoing certification.

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

  • Not have heavy amounts of higher education debt.
  • Avoid being stuck 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 profitable business.

How to Become 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 careers typically require extra instruction or qualifications.

You can become 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 often six months to two years. Your employer may also want NATE certification. This stands for North American Technician Excellence, this industry-leading endorsement increases your technical expertise to help you better serve customers.

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

Another perk 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 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 perform 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 set schedule during typical business hours.

As a technician, you’ll respond to different locations for repair, maintenance or installation jobs. Some jobs might take longer than others, so the number of calls you can take care of might vary.

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

Average Salary for HVAC Technicians and Other HVAC Careers

Because HVAC is a fast-growing industry, your salary will reflect it. The national average salary for an HVAC technician is $49,242, according to ZipRecruiter. Top earners make between $56,600 and $68,000. However, salaries could be different based on your locationand its cost of living.

In addition to running your own business, there are a few other career opportunities. These involve:

HVAC manager, $72,515 average salary

HVAC service manager, $71,176 average salary

Where HVAC Technicians Are in High Demand

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 highest number of HVAC workers and are dealing with explosive construction growth. Here’s why:

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

Where HVAC Technicians Will Be in High Demand in the Future

Projections Central, who makes long-term occupational projections, expects 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 jobs during that time frame are expected 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 increases in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Grow Your HVAC Career with Childress Heating & AC

HVAC technicians are needed across the nation and in Fredericksburg. To find out more about our openings, view our careers page or reach us at 540-675-4306 now!