If you’ve been thinking about training to become an HVAC technician, you may have some questions. Different career information might come at you from all angles. Some from well-meaning people outside of the trade, and some from those with HVAC experience.
Let’s separate fact from fiction when it comes to HVAC technicians.
Skills: Is It Hard to Become an HVAC Technician?
Fiction: HVAC techs just need muscle to do their job.
Fact: It takes effort to become career-ready—but not a lot of advanced math! To become an HVAC technician, you need to use your mind just as much as your body. So you don't need to be all muscle to have a successful HVAC career. Technicians are mechanically competent, accomplished with power tools, proficient with wires and piping, and have a full understanding of blueprints, other building models and architectural plans.
An HVAC training program will give you the training you need. In an HVAC training program, you can become career-ready in as few as six months. Learn about the types of classes in an HVAC training program.
Pay: How Much Money Do HVAC Techs Make?
Fiction: HVAC technicians don’t make a lot of money.
Fact: As an HVAC technician, you have the potential to earn a great salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), HVAC technicians earned an average annual wage of $59,620 in 2023. The top 10 percent of HVAC techs reported an average pay of $84,250. Read more about how much HVAC jobs pay.
Career Stability: What’s the Future of HVAC?
Fiction: You won’t be able to find a position as an HVAC technician.
Fact: Between now and 2032, the BLS predicts that demand for HVAC technicians will increase 6 percent, which is faster than the national average for all occupations. This means that around 37,700 additional HVAC jobs are expected to open each year on average over the next decade.
Women: Get into HVAC!
Fiction: All HVAC technicians are men.
Fact: There are man women in HVAC. In fact, women in HVAC are just as successful as their male counterparts. The growth of women in the trades has been on the rise, and more women than ever before are joining trade industries.
Joining HVAC Unions: Required?
Fiction: All HVAC technicians are in a union.
Fact: HVAC technicians do not have to take a union position. Employees have the freedom to choose a union or non-union position. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only one in six HVAC technicians are in a union.
Becoming an HVAC Tech: Is It Worth It?
Fiction: Becoming an HVAC technician is limiting.
Fact: Sixteen percent of all HVAC technicians become business owners. If you are interested in enjoying the perks of owning your own business and being your own boss, then this could be the field for you. Learn about different careers HVAC training can lead to.
Learn what 5 professionals working in the HVAC industry say they like about their career.
A Great Career for You!
As you might have thought, being an HVAC technician is a good way to make a living. You’ll experience both freedom and opportunities! If you are someone with an interest in HVAC, are a good problem solver, and want to learn more about the trade, explore HVAC schools near you today!
