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 predicts careers in this trade will grow by 13 percent by 2028.

There are a couple of reasons why these jobs are increasing so rapidly. One is homeowners using government rebates to upgrade to more energy-efficient comfort systems. Then there’s the ban on R-22 Freon® refrigerants, which influences old equipment. Finally, there’s the red-hot home market and a home shortage that’s driven a boost in new construction residences.

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 make.

What Is an HVAC Technician?

A HVAC technician is someone who services, 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 technicians, which means they also can take care of 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 usually outdoors.
  • Work evenings, weekends and overtime during peak times.

One of the most typical misconceptions about HVAC is that it’s a blue-collar job. It requires a certain skill set, specialized instruction and ongoing endorsements.

It’s a fantastic career choice if you want to:

  • Not have excessive educational debt.
  • Avoid sitting at a desk or in an office.
  • Have job security realizing your position can’t be outsourced.
  • Be 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, as well as comprehensive education. Other more specialized (and higher paying) HVAC positions typically must have extra instruction or certifications.

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

Career Explorer says that technicians who have expertise 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 student debt.

According to Midwest Technical Institute, attending a technical or trade school typically is 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 where you work. If you work in repairs, you may work early, late or be on call. If you work in construction/home building or management, you may have more of a set schedule during typical business hours.

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

As we went over previously, you should be used 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 positive.

Average Salary for HVAC Technicians and Other HVAC Careers

Because HVAC is a rapidly expanding field, 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 areaand its cost of living.

In addition to having 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 United States, but even more so in Florida, California, Texas, New York and Illinois. According to hvacclasses.org, these states employ the greatest number of HVAC workers and are going through explosive construction growth. Here’s why:

  • Florida: Hurricanes, school and healthcare buildings.
  • California: Wildfires, transportation, energy and utility upgrades.
  • Texas: Hurricanes, energy, utility and other infrastructure upgrades.
  • New York: Residential and infrastructure projects.
  • Illinois: Companies relocating to the Chicago area.

Where HVAC Technicians Will Be in High Demand in the Future

Projections Central, who creates 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 biggest number of new openings 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 improvement is forecasted to feed increases in these states, according to hvacclasses.org.

Build Your HVAC Career with Gopher Heating and Air Conditioning

HVAC technicians are needed across the nation and in Savage. To discover more about our openings, visit our careers page or contact us at 952-373-0377 now!