If you’re wanting to find a new, high-paying career, look no further than heating, ventilation and air conditioning. HVAC is one of the fastest-growing careers you can find, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which expects careers in this field will increase by 13 percent by 2028.

There are a few reasons why these jobs are increasing so quickly. One is homeowners tapping into government incentives to get more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the ban on R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which impacts old equipment. Lastly, there’s the red-hot home market and a home shortage that’s driven a boost in new construction homes.

One of the number one 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 receive.

What Is a Professional HVAC Technician?

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

Some are HVAC-R techs, which means they also work with refrigeration.

Is HVAC a Hard Career?

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

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

One of the most typical misconceptions about HVAC is that it’s a blue-collar position. It requires a specific skill set, specialized education and ongoing certification.

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

  • Avoid a lot of educational debt.
  • Avoid being stuck at a desk or in an office.
  • Have job security knowing your position can’t be outsourced.
  • Become your own boss and own your own successful 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 instruction. Other more specialized (and higher paying) HVAC positions typically need extra instruction or endorsements.

You can become certified 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 often six months to two years. Your employer may also require NATE certification. This refers to North American Technician Excellence, this highly regarded accreditation expands your technical knowledge to help you better serve customers.

Career Explorer noted that technicians familiar 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 usually costs around $15,000. A community college often runs around $5,000 annually. In contrast, the average student debt for a bachelor’s degree is $25,921.

A Day in the Life of an HVAC Technician

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

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

As we talked about previously, you should be comfortable working outdoors in extreme weather, as well as in dirty or cramped areas. If you work in a customer-facing role, good customer service skills are always an advantage.

Typical Salary Rates for {Professional Technicians|Technicians|Full-Time Technicians and Similar HVAC Jobs

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

Other than owning 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 nation, but even more so in Florida, California, Texas, New York and Illinois. According to hvacclasses.org, these states employ the most HVAC workers and are dealing with major 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 develops long-term occupational projections, forecasts these states to have the biggest 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 greatest number of new openings 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 development is anticipated to fuel expansion in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Build a Career in HVAC with All Weather Heating & Air Conditioning Inc

HVAC technicians remain in demand across the nation and in Huntsville. To learn more more about our openings, visit our careers page or contact us at 256-801-4701 today!