If you’re wanting to find a new, successful career, look no further than heating, ventilation and air conditioning. HVAC is one of the most rapidly growing careers available, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which predicts careers in this trade will grow by 13 percent by 2028.

There are a few reasons why these jobs are expanding so rapidly. One is homeowners tapping into government rebates to purchase more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the end of R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which impacts old equipment. Finally, there’s the red-hot home market and a property shortage that’s driven a bump in new construction homes.

One of the most needed careers 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 Are HVAC Technicians?

An HVAC technician is an individual who fixes, installs and maintains heating and cooling units. Most assist both homeowners and business owners. And, most important, you’ll be skilled with:

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

Is Working in HVAC Difficult?

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

  • Work in uncomfortable settings, including small or dirty spaces.
  • Work in hot or cold areas because equipment is usually outdoors.
  • Work evenings, weekends and overtime during peak days.

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

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

  • Avoid heavy amounts of higher education debt.
  • Avoid working at a desk or in an office.
  • Have job security knowing your position can’t be outsourced.
  • Be your own boss and have your own successful business.

What to Do to Become an HVAC Professional

To become an HVAC technician, you should have a high school diploma or GED, plus comprehensive instruction. Other more specialized (and higher paying) HVAC jobs typically need extra education or endorsements.

You can get your certification by attending classes at a community college or trade school. How long it takes to become an HVAC technician depends on the program, which is usually six months to two years. Your employer could also require NATE certification. This refers to North American Technician Excellence, this top accreditation increases your technical know-how to help you better serve customers.

Career Explorer says that technicians who can work with tablets, electronics and troubleshooting will be in great demand as equipment becomes more technologically advanced.

Another benefit of working in HVAC is little to no instructional 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.

Common Duties of an HVAC Technician

Your work schedule might vary depending on where you work. If you work in repairs, you could work early, late or be on call. If you work in construction/home building or management, you could have more of a regular schedule during typical business hours.

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

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

Potential Compensation for {Professional Technicians|Technicians|Full-Time Technicians and Similar HVAC Jobs

Because HVAC is a fast-growing field, your salary will reflect 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 might differ based on your location and its cost of living.

Other than having your own business, there are a wide range of additional 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 in demand 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 going through explosive construction growth. Here’s why:

  • Florida: Hurricanes, education and healthcare locations.
  • California: Wildfires, transportation, energy and utility projects.
  • Texas: Hurricanes, energy, utility and other infrastructure projects.
  • New York: Residential and infrastructure updates.
  • Illinois: Companies flocking 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 biggest number of new positions 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 contribute to expansion in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Launch Your HVAC Career with Siloam Springs Heating & AC

HVAC technicians are needed across the nation and in Siloam Springs. To find out more about our openings, go to our careers page or contact us at 479-308-8176 right away!