Introduction to HVAC Technicians

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) technicians provide a valuable service to both individuals and businesses. Since HVAC equipment needs to be serviced year-round and there is no “off” season for this trade.

What does an HVAC Technician Do?

An HVAC technician’s responsibilities include a wide range of duties such as performing maintenance, installation, and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units. Possible tasks include:

• Installing new equipment
• Providing routine equipment maintenance
• Cleaning equipment and ducts
• Diagnosing system problems
• Performing repairs
• Replacing older HVAC equipment
• Upgrading existing HVAC systems for better energy efficiency
• Testing HVAC systems and components

An HVAC tech must be comfortable speaking with others because of the high level of interaction with customers.

Benefits of Becoming an HVAC Technician

Some benefits of becoming an HVAC technician are:

• Job security. HVAC technicians provide an essential service to their community via climate control.
• Perform challenging work. People who enjoy figuring out problems and finding solutions can find satisfaction in this job.
• Ongoing learning. Since cutting-edge technologies are always on the horizon in the HVAC industry, individuals working as in this field are continually learning. Even the most experienced techs will need to learn how to service new equipment throughout their tenure.
• Strong level of personal satisfaction. People who like helping others will find a strong sense of satisfaction in this job as they provide comfort and efficiency to their customers every day.
• Career advancement opportunities. HVAC technicians have strong career advancement possibilities, such as owning their own business.
  

How Long Does It Take to Become an HVAC Technician?

While many career paths require a two or four-year degree to land an entry-level job, HVAC technician programs are more concise. Centura College’s 12-month program* ensures students quickly learn the skills necessary to become HVAC technicians. Graduates with an HVAC diploma will have all the skills they need to enter this exciting field.

Upon completion of our program, students also have the opportunity to earn valuable HVAC certifications, including OSHA’s 10-hour safety certification and the EPA’s Section 608 Refrigerant Transition Certification.

*Program completion time is based on a full-time student schedule.

What is an HVAC Technician’s Salary?

The U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2020 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics recorded an average annual wage for a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and Installers to be $53,410.

According to ZipRecruiter, Virginia ranks number 17 out of 50 states nationwide for the best entry-level earnings in this position. At the top of the Virginia earnings list is Newport News, followed by Alexandria, Arlington, Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Charlottesville.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates the job market for HVAC mechanics and installers will grow 4% through 2029, which is on pace with the average of other occupations. The BLS also expects the opportunities for HVAC technicians to increase as commercial and residential building construction picks up.

For more information regarding Centura College’s HVAC technician training diploma program, please contact us today. We will make sure you get the best start in your exciting new career journey.

About Centura College

Centura College has been part of an organization dedicated to helping men and women develop careers since 1969. By training working adults in healthcare, technology, business, and trades, they connect communities with some of the fastest growing career fields in today’s marketplace. The school offers professional facilities, knowledgeable instructors, day or evening classes, job placement assistance and is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). To learn more, visit www.CenturaCollege.edu or like them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centura.edu.