Is HVAC A Good Career Choice 2022?

If you're looking for a career that is in high demand, offers great salary potential, and is always in need of new technicians, then you should consider a career in HVAC.

However, before making any decisions, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of this career path. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the key factors you need to consider when making your decision.

What is an HVAC Technician's Job Description?

An HVAC technician is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. This may include performing warranty services and emergency repairs. This may also include assisting with customers' queries. They work in a variety of settings, including homes, businesses, and factories. In some cases, they may also work on large-scale projects such as office buildings or hospitals.

List of responsibilities an HVAC Technician has on a day-to-day basis

• Installing, maintaining, and repairing ventilation and air conditioning systems and equipment.
• Identifying maintenance risks on equipment.
• Diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults for HVAC systems.
• Cleaning, adjusting, and repairing systems, and performing warranty services.
• Performing emergency repairs promptly and efficiently.
• Providing technical direction and on-the-job training.
• Keeping daily logs and records of all maintenance functions.
• Ensuring compliance with appliance standards and with Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• Complying with service standards, work instructions, and customers' requirements.
• Assisting with customers' queries.

HVAC Pros and Cons

Now that we've looked at what an HVAC technician does on a day-to-day basis, let's take a look at some of the pros and cons of this career.

On the plus side, a career in HVAC can be very rewarding. Technician jobs are always in high demand, which means that there is job security. In addition, HVAC technicians typically earn a good salary. The average starting salary for an HVAC technician is $39,608 per year, according to Payscale.com.

However, there are some downsides to a career in HVAC as well. First of all, it can be a physically demanding job. You will be working with your hands a lot and lifting heavy equipment. You will also need to have a strong understanding of math and science to succeed in this career.

If you read on down below you will see a more extensive list of some of the pros and cons of a career in HVAC.

PROS:

High demand for technicians: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of HVAC technicians will grow by 15 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing popularity of energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, as well as the growing number of older homes and buildings in need of repair or replacement.

Great salary potential: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for HVAC technicians was $47,080 in May 2017. The top ten percent of earners made more than $76,140, while the bottom ten percent made less than $28,430.

Attractive Compensation: HVAC technicians also have an opportunity to earn more by working overtime. While you might not start earning high amounts as soon as you land your first job, your compensation will grow eventually. If you’re working for a big company, you can supplement your income by working as a private HVAC consultant and technician during your free time.

A career with growth potential: HVAC technicians who complete formal training programs and earn certification can advance to supervisory positions or open their own businesses. With experience, technicians may also be able to move into sales or project management roles.

Little to no downtime: In most cases, HVAC systems are running all year long, so technicians are always needed, even during slow periods.

CONS:

Working in uncomfortable conditions: HVAC technicians often work in cramped spaces and may be exposed to dust, fumes, and hazardous materials. They may also work outdoors in extreme weather conditions.

Risk of injury: HVAC technicians may suffer cuts, bruises, and shocks from electrical equipment. They may also be injured while lifting heavy equipment or working in awkward positions.

Long hours: HVAC technicians often work long hours, including evenings and weekends. They may also be on call 24 hours a day to respond to emergencies.

What Does an HVAC technician job entail salary-wise?

As we saw in the pros section, HVAC technicians have the potential to earn a great salary. However, it's important to keep in mind that salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and other factors.

According to indeed.com, the average salaries for HVAC professionals in Ohio increase with experience and training and are as follows:

• HVAC Installer: The average wage for an HVAC installer is $22.17 per hour in Ohio and $6,250 overtime per year.
• HVAC Technician: The average wage for an HVAC technician is $23.56 per hour in Ohio and $6,500 overtime per year.
• HVAC Mechanic: The average wage for an HVAC mechanic is $35.78 per hour in Ohio and $8,000 overtime per year.
• HVAC Supervisor: The average wage for an HVAC supervisor is $77,936 per year in Ohio and $9,375 overtime per year.

Salaries can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession.

Although you can't talk about the pros and cons without mentioning the requirements it takes to be an HVAC technician.

Licensing Requirements for HVAC Contractors in Ohio

Is a license required to work as an HVAC professional in Ohio? Yes, but not as soon as you might think.

 Many HVAC technicians start their careers without any formal training, but if you want to be successful in this field, it's a good idea to get a license. Many schools offer HVAC training, and most states require HVAC technicians to be licensed.

However, you can usually get your HVAC license by completing an apprenticeship or on-the-job training. So if you're interested in a career in HVAC, don't let the fear of school hold you back. You can achieve success in this field without spending years in college.

To legally perform heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration work in the state of Ohio, you must be a licensed contractor or a technician apprentice working under a licensed contractor. The requirements to be an HVAC Technician Apprentice include the following:

• High school diploma, GED, or suitable equivalent.
• 1+ year experience as an HVAC technician, and willingness to continue education in the HVAC field.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Understanding of advanced principles of air conditioning, refrigeration, and heating.
• Working knowledge of boiler systems.
• Proficient in balancing air and water treatment systems in line with HVAC protocols.
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in reading schematics and work plans.
• Ability to work after hours, over weekends, and on public holidays with short or no notice.

The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB) issues state licenses to HVAC contractors who perform commercial work. After years of work experience, HVAC technicians in the state of Ohio can become a contractor and build their businesses. Many cities like Cleveland, Columbus, and Toledo (as well as other local jurisdictions) have additional licensing or registration requirements of their own, so be sure to check where you plan to work.

Types of HVAC Licenses in Ohio

What are the different types of HVAC licenses in Ohio?

There is only one kind of HVAC license in Ohio. It is a state-level Commercial Contractor license for HVAC. HVAC tradespeople can learn the craft and work in the trade without a license under the supervision of a licensed contractor.

The OCILB issues state licenses to Electrical, HVAC, Refrigeration, Plumbing, and Hydronics Contractors who perform commercial work.

According to ServiceTitian.com, there is a list of steps to get an HVAC license in Ohio, which includes having to:

1. Be at least 18 years of age.
2. Be a United States citizen or a legal alien-must provide proof of being a legal alien.
3. Either has been a tradesperson in the type of licensed trade for which the application is filed for not less than five years immediately before the date the application is filed, currently be a registered engineer in this state with three years of business experience in the construction industry in the trade for which the engineer is applying to take the examination, or have other experience acceptable to the appropriate section of the board.
4. Never have been convicted of a disqualifying offense.
5. Once approved by the Board, you are required to complete a State and Federal Background Check prior to sitting for the examination.
6. Pass the examination in the trade.
7. Carry a minimum of $500,000 in contractor liability coverage.
8. Pay the applicable fees.

Once getting an HVAC license, several benefits come along with having completed the requirements listed above.

Benefits of Having an HVAC License

Opening your own business: After getting your HVAC license, you have the opportunity to open up your own business. This can be beneficial because you will have more control over your work hours, projects, etc.

Increased earnings potential: On average, licensed contractors earn 20% more than those who are unlicensed.

Job security: Licensed contractors are in high demand, meaning that there is always a need for their services.

Improved career prospects: Having an HVAC license gives you the ability to bid on larger projects and work with well-known companies.

These are just some of the benefits that come along with having an HVAC license in Ohio. If you are thinking about getting into the HVAC field, be sure to do your research and see if it is the right career path for you.

Frequently Asked Questions about HVAC Careers

Is an HVAC career a good choice?

There are pros and cons to every career, and the same goes for an HVAC career. Some of the pros include job security, increased earnings potential, and improved career prospects. However, some of the cons include long hours, on-call work, and difficult working conditions. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if an HVAC career is right for you.

How much does an HVAC technician make?

HVAC technicians in Ohio earn an average salary of $49,530 per year. However, salaries can range from $30,000 to $70,000 per year depending on experience level, geographical location, and type of company.

What are the requirements to become an HVAC technician?

To become an HVAC technician, you must have a high school diploma or GED. You will also need to complete an accredited training program and pass a state-level licensing exam. Some companies may require additional certification, so be sure to check with your potential employer.

HVAC career overview

A career in HVAC can be a great choice for those who are interested in working with their hands and helping others. There is a wide range of job opportunities available for those with an HVAC license, and the average salary is quite good.

However, it is important to be aware of the long hours and on-call work that often come along with this career. If you are willing to put in the hard work, an HVAC career can be very rewarding.

So, what does an HVAC technician job entail? As you can see, many responsibilities come with the job. It’s a serious profession that requires training and licensure in most states. The pros of being an HVAC technician are many, including a good salary and a stable career. The cons are few but should still be considered before deciding on this career path.

There are tools that can make an HVAC technician's life much easier, that streamline business processes like scheduling, routing, and dispatching. With software like Smart Service and with the available add-ons like iFleet, a technician can take pictures of the job and even process payments right there in the field. Let this handy field service software help take care of some of the heavy lifting that you or your technicians are experiencing. Try Smart Service software today!