If you’re thinking about a new, well-paying career, look no further than heating, ventilation and air conditioning. HVAC is one of the quickest-growing careers offered, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which estimates careers in this industry will expand by 13 percent by 2028.

There are a few reasons why these positions are increasing so fast. One is homeowners tapping into government rebates to install more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the discontinuation of R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which impacts old equipment. In conclusion, there’s the red-hot home market and a property shortage that’s driven a boost in new construction homes.

One of the number one needed positions is working as an HVAC technician. Discover about what they do, how to become one and about how much you can expect to earn.

What Is an HVAC Technician?

A HVAC technician is an individual who repairs, installs and maintains heating and cooling units. Most serve both homeowners and business owners. And, most important, you’ll be knowledgeable about:

Some are HVAC-R pros, which means they also can do refrigeration.

Is HVAC a Hard Career?

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

  • Work in uncomfortable settings, including tight or dirty spaces.
  • Work in hot or cold areas since equipment is typically outdoors.
  • Work evenings, weekends and overtime during peak demand.

One of the most typical misconceptions about HVAC is that it’s a blue-collar job. You need a specific skill set, extensive instruction and ongoing certification.

It’s a great career possibility if you want to:

  • Avoid excessive student debt.
  • Avoid sitting at a desk or in an office.
  • Have job security realizing your position can’t be outsourced.
  • Become your own boss and run your own prosperous business.

How to Become an HVAC Technician

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

You can get your certification by going to classes at a community college or trade school. How long it takes to become an HVAC technician is linked to the program, which is often six months to two years. Your employer may also want NATE certification. Known as North American Technician Excellence, this top accreditation expands your technical expertise to help you better serve customers.

Career Explorer noted that technicians who can work with tablets, electronics and troubleshooting will be in big demand as equipment evolves.

Another benefit of working in HVAC is little to no educational debt.

According to Midwest Technical Institute, attending a technical or trade school often costs around $15,000. A community college usually costs around $5,000 annually. By 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 could work early, late or be on call. If you work in construction/home building or management, you could have more of a set schedule during usual business hours.

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

As we went over previously, you should be used to working outdoors in extreme weather, as well as in dirty or cramped spots. If you work in a customer-facing role, good customer service skills are always a plus.

Average Salary for HVAC Technicians and Other HVAC Careers

Because HVAC is a rapidly expanding career, your salary will show 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 might be different based on your locationand its cost of living.

In addition to owning your own business, there are a few 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 needed across the nation, 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 experiencing high construction growth. Here’s why:

  • Florida: Hurricanes, education and healthcare facilities.
  • California: Wildfires, transportation, energy and utility upgrades.
  • Texas: Hurricanes, energy, utility and other infrastructure updates.
  • New York: Residential and infrastructure updates.
  • Illinois: Companies moving to the Chicago area.

Where HVAC Technicians Will Be in High Demand in the Future

Projections Central, who develops long-term occupational projections, forecasts 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 forecasted 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 expected to contribute to expansion in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Engineer Your HVAC Career with Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning

HVAC technicians remain in demand across the nation and in Arlington. To discover more about our openings, see our careers page or contact us at 360-255-5857 today!