If you’re interested in becoming an HVAC technician, you already know it’s a more specialized field than construction or other home and business service industries. But do you know exactly what the job entails and what you’ll need to get started?

If not, you’re in luck. Today, let’s discuss everything you need to know about getting your career in the HVAC industry started!

What Does an HVAC Technician Do?

The HVAC industry is an incredibly complex and skilled trade. HVAC technicians need to understand a wide range of concepts, especially when it comes to heat transfer. You’ll also need to fully grasp airflow, piping systems, refrigeration cycles, water flow, electrical wiring systems, sheet metal, and much more.

As a technician, you’ll be responsible for providing repairs, maintenance, and new installations of customers’ products – including heat pumps, heating ventilation systems, and air conditioners. You’ll also need to sell additional products and promote services to provide each homeowner with the best options to fit their home’s indoor air quality needs.

Requirements to Become an HVAC Technician

1. Earn a high school diploma: High school courses cover a lot of the important groundwork of HVAC, including physics, math, plumbing, electrical work, and basic electronics.
2. Finish an HVAC training program: Early training programs for HVAC teach students about residential heating and cooling, voltage, indoor air quality, and how to use calibration instruments.
3. Become an HVAC apprentice: Joining an HVAC apprenticeship program provides on-the-job training and job security, as well as everything you need to know to advance your career.
4. Receive important state licenses and certifications: Each state requires HVAC professionals to hold a handful of licenses and certifications, but all techs should hold the NATE certification.
5. Further your education with additional programs: You can pursue an associate or bachelor’s degree, or become a certified expert in specific HVAC equipment maintenance and repair.

If you have yet to finish a training program, gain a license or certification, or further your knowledge in the field through apprenticeship or educational programs, don’t let that stop you from applying. The team at Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air Conditioning is always proud to help newcomers to the HVAC industry attain the credentials and prerequisites they need to thrive in their careers. 

Before You Start: Key Points to Remember

• You’ll need constant training to thrive as an HVAC technician – from the beginning of your career and each year afterward. The HVAC industry constantly evolves with new technologies, innovation in equipment and technique, and government regulations.
• Your work environments may be harsher than those in many other jobs. In Florida, you’ll often find yourself working outdoors in the hottest days of the year. It’s incredibly rewarding, but prepare to be hot, tired, and often covered in sweat by day’s end.
• Customer service is just as important as technical knowledge. Your people skills will be put to the test on a daily basis. Remember: your customers are sometimes calling you after spending hours without an air conditioner.
• Attention to detail is absolutely critical in the HVAC industry. Because you’ll deal with electricity, refrigerant, fire, and other dangerous materials, you’ll need to practice constant vigilance every day on the job.

Benefits of a Career in HVAC

Tradesmen in the HVAC industry also benefit from a wide range of advantages seldom offered in other careers, including:

• HVAC technicians receive highly competitive and level based pay, providing strong incentives for advancement and quality workmanship.
• HVAC technicians rarely find themselves bored on the job. Each day is filled with variety – you’ll be responsible for providing innovative and unique solutions for each of your customers rather than falling into the same old boring routine as you might in other careers.
• HVAC technicians receive and maintain their own company vehicles, which will provide you with a sense of independence and esteem as you build a customer base that will trust you for years to come.

Ready to learn more about being an HVAC technician and potentially start your career in the industry? Reach out to the team at Charlie’s Tropic Heating & Air Conditioning today!