If you’re thinking about a new, successful 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 expects careers in this industry will increase by 13 percent by 2028.

There are a few reasons why these jobs are increasing so fast. One is homeowners tapping into government rebates to install more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the end of R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which affects old equipment. Finally, there’s the red-hot home market and a home shortage that’s driven an increase in new construction residences.

One of the top 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 make.

What Is an HVAC Technician?

A HVAC technician is a person who services, installs and maintains heating and cooling systems. 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 HVAC a Hard Career?

While HVAC can be physically hard, it can also be highly satisfying. As a technician you should be able to:

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

One of the most typical misconceptions about HVAC is that it’s a blue-collar position. You need a certain skill set, in-depth training and ongoing certification.

It’s an excellent career possibility if you want to:

  • Avoid heavy amounts of student debt.
  • Avoid being stuck at a desk or in an office.
  • Have job security being sure your position can’t be outsourced.
  • Be your own boss and have your own prosperous business.

How to Become an HVAC Technician

To become an HVAC technician, you will require a high school diploma or GED, in addition to comprehensive education. Other more specialized (and higher paying) HVAC jobs typically must have extra schooling or qualifications.

You can become certified by taking classes at a community college or trade school. How long it takes to become an HVAC technician relies on the program, which is usually six months to two years. Your employer may also require NATE certification. This refers to North American Technician Excellence, this highly regarded certification expands your technical know-how 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 advantage of working in HVAC is little to no instructional debt.

According to Midwest Technical Institute, attending a technical or trade school often costs around $15,000. A community college often is 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 may vary depending on where you work. If you do repairs, you may work early, late or be on call. If you work in construction/home building or management, you could have more of a fixed schedule during usual business hours.

As a technician, you’ll visit different locations for repair, maintenance or installation jobs. Some work might require more time than others, so the number of calls you can take care of could vary.

As we talked about previously, you should be accustomed to working outdoors in extreme weather, plus dirty or cramped spots. If you work in a customer-facing role, solid customer service skills are always an advantage.

Average Salary for HVAC Technicians and Other HVAC Careers

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

Aside from having your own business, there are a wide range of extra 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, school and healthcare locations.
  • California: Wildfires, transportation, energy and utility upgrades.
  • Texas: Hurricanes, energy, utility and other infrastructure projects.
  • New York: Residential and infrastructure projects.
  • Illinois: Companies moving 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 greatest 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 anticipated 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 anticipated to feed expansion in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Build Your HVAC Career with Lakeside Heating & Air

HVAC technicians are required across the country and in Chelan and Wenatchee. To find out more about our openings, visit our careers page or contact us at 509-284-4265 right away!