How to Join the Heating and Air Conditioning Industry
If you’re considering careers, consider HVAC technician as a top option. These specialized mechanics install, repair and maintain the heating and cooling systems that keeps us indoors. It’s a field projected to grow with plenty of job opportunities, especially in hot and humid climates like Florida. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC technician careers are projected to grow 4 percent in the next 10 years.
What Do HVAC Techs Do?
Get ready to get dirty. HVAC techs work on and install heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems in homes and businesses. This includes cleaning and maintaining heating and air conditioning systems, installing electrical components and wiring, inspecting and testing systems and repairing or replacing worn parts. Technicians may also sell service contracts or work in specialized aspects of climate control, such as solar panels and commercial refrigeration. Techs work in attics, under buildings, on top of buildings and working outside. Because heating and air emergencies can happen any time, technicians are also often required to work after hours and on weekends.
How Do You Become an HVAC Tech?
If you think an HVAC technician career is right for you, you’ll need to hit the books. HVAC systems are incredibly complex, so most employers prefer applicants with postsecondary education or who have completed an apprenticeship. If you’re a high school student interested in this fast-growing career, you should take courses in vocational education, math and physics. A knowledge of plumbing or electrical systems is also helpful. Technicians just starting out usually work with more experienced employees and perform basic tasks, such as insulating refrigerant lines.
How Much Do HVAC Technician Jobs Pay?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual wages for heating and air conditioning technicians are on the upper end of the pay scale for skilled trades workers. Apprentices should expect to earn about half of what more experienced employees take home.
Barineau Heating and Air Conditioning is a certified contractor in both Florida and Georgia and carries several other industry certifications. Barineau offers repair, maintenance and installation of Carrier and other home comfort systems and is always looking for those interested in learning more about the profession. The office can be reached at 850-580-4029.
