HVAC service technicians install, troubleshoot, and repair heating and cooling systems. They may specialize in residential or specialized systems and typically learn the trade through technical school or apprenticeships. Licensing and certification may be required. They also design duct work, test systems for leaks, and perform routine maintenance. HVAC technicians are in high demand but may work long hours in extreme temperatures and may also handle sales.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) service technicians are responsible for installing, troubleshooting, and repairing heating and cooling systems. An HVAC service technician’s scope of experience may be unique to residential central heating and air conditioning systems. Or, the technician may work with highly specialized systems responsible for climate control in hospitals or other large institutions. In the United States, the Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies this type of career as having an excellent outlook, with above-average future demand for skilled and experienced workers.
Typically, an HVAC service technician learns the trade by attending a secondary or post-secondary technical school. Some commercial organizations or private employers offer an alternative to formal education by offering the ability to apprentice in the field. A well-rounded education is an asset, as the job often requires running projects and properly handling natural gas, oil, electricity, and solid fuel. Many areas require technicians to meet licensing requirements, which may involve classes and an HVAC certification exam. These licenses can provide customers with peace of mind that the technician is following safety protocols and meeting regulatory compliance standards for new installation.
Installing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units requires proper placement of compressors, fans, thermostats, and more. Often, an experienced HVAC service technician will be the person responsible for designing the duct work layout of a new installation to ensure the system is running at its best. When the installation of a new central heating or air conditioning system is complete, the technician will typically test the system for leaks using specialized equipment that detects harmful vapors in the air.
After proper system installation and testing, routine maintenance is required to keep a heating and air conditioning system operating safely and efficiently. Most service technicians are responsible for the routine maintenance of the systems they install. This often includes cleaning ducts, changing filters, and testing for leaks that need repair.
HVAC service technicians who specialize in heating and air conditioning repair are in high demand, but they can often work long hours in heat and cold. HVAC technicians often troubleshoot existing systems and replace damaged parts. The need for HVAC repair or replacement often comes in the winter and summer months when these systems are struggling to provide indoor climate control.
Some heating, ventilation and air conditioning technicians may also handle sales. Occasionally, the cost of repairing an existing system is significant or repairs are not possible. The HVAC service technician must be able to communicate the problem to the customer and suggest solutions that are appropriate for their needs.
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