Learn More About the Growing Demand for HVAC Technicians
Are you interested in a career that allows you work with your hands in variety of workspaces? If so, a career as an HVAC technician might be the right path for you.
HVAC technicians play a vital role in keeping homes, offices and hospitals at a comfortable temperature. From maintenance to installation and troubleshooting, as an HVAC technician you will learn the tools and technical skills needed to preserve the temperature and air quality in a range of facilities.
HVAC technician jobs also are projected to grow 13% by 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Read on to learn more about this growing career.
Responsibilities of an HVAC Technician
An HVAC technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems that control the temperature, humidity and air quality in buildings.
Typically, an HVAC technician will be given specifications by an architect or engineer on the type of HVAC unit that will be installed in commercial or residential properties. Before installation, the technician will complete any on-site calculations to determine which HVAC system is appropriate for the establishment.
Once the technician has installed the unit, it is tested to ensure that all piping and wires are connected to the ductwork or distribution center.
It is recommended that HVAC systems undergo regular maintenance at least twice a year, usually in spring and fall, to ensure that they are working effectively. During these routine checkups, HVAC technicians will perform a number of tasks, including:
- Cleaning out the blower fan
- Monitoring the level of coolant in the system
- Testing the thermostat
- Check system controls
With consistent seasonal maintenance, HVAC systems should run properly and be less likely to break down when a customer is relying on them.
Complex HVAC systems that do not receive regular maintenance service will malfunction more frequently. If this happens, an HVAC technician could be called to replace the thermostat, reattach ductwork, repair system controls or adjust refrigerant levels.
Work Environment of an HVAC Tech
Most commercial and residential buildings have heating and cooling systems, which can provide a wide variety of work environments for an HVAC technician. These can include schools, hospitals, office buildings, manufacturing and distribution facilities and retail stores.
Although most technicians work indoors, some of their time may be spent servicing outdoor HVAC systems for customers. Since emergency repairs are common, an HVAC technician’s schedule may vary.
A technician may spend their day working on one site or multiple sites due to service call volumes. Their daily schedule depends on the number of appointments and customer needs, as well as travel times between jobs.
The Road to Becoming an HVAC Tech
Dawn Career Institute can provide you with the necessary training to pursue a rewarding career as an HVAC technician.
During our 36-week program, students receive hands-on training with:
- HVAC Electrical Systems and Circuits
- HVAC Mechanical Systems and Motors
- Field Operations
- Automatic Control Systems
- Electric Gas and Heat
- Oil and Water Based Heating Systems
- Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps
- Refrigeration Concepts
At Dawn Career Institute, our students gain the knowledge needed to sit for their EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, which allows technicians to maintain, service, repair and dispose of equipment.
Are you ready to start your career as an HVAC technician? Our Admissions Department is available to help you start your journey to a new career. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a tour.