HVAC & Refrigeration is a growing field, and employment for technicians in this field is projected to increase 13 percent in the next decade according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The job as an HVAC tech involves repairing and installing of HVACR systems, and an average day can offer a variety of tasks and responsibilities. Each morning HVAC technicians will usually report to their workplace to receive their specific assignments. They will gather the necessary tools and head off to the job site.
The number of tasks an HVACR technician is assigned will depend on the complexity of each job. For example, setting up an HVAC system for a home or business could take an entire day and require a team of technicians. On the other hand, trouble-shooting and fixing a central air conditioning unit might only require one technician and take just an hour or two. Ultimately, the employer will assign projects based on job length and a technician’s expertise.
Once the HVAC technician has their schedule, they will head to the first site, assess the task, and collect the necessary tools and materials to complete the job. If the task involves a repair, for example, the technician will find the cause, inform the customer, provide options on how to solve it, and then start the work if it has been approved. After the repair is made, the technician will test the system to make sure everything is working properly.
When a job is complete, the technician will clean up the area and meet with the customer to complete any necessary paperwork. They will also show the customer the repair and review how to use or care for the equipment properly. With these steps complete, it is time to head to the next appointment. When servicing customers, technicians need to call ahead to let them know they are on the way and give an estimated time of arrival.
If an HVAC technician’s company handles emergency repairs, shift hours may vary during certain seasons or days. And, if any job on the roster takes longer than the estimated time that was allotted, the technician may work longer hours than expected or need to reschedule jobs pushing them out to the next day.
Not all HVACR positions are the same and some HVAC technicians choose to specialize. Some technicians focus on installation or maintenance, and others choose to become an expert on a particular type of system or appliance such as refrigeration systems or gas furnaces.
An HVAC technician can be a demanding job that requires physical strength and stamina. The working conditions can involve extreme temperatures as well as working in tight, confined spaces. And, since the job involves interacting with people on the job, HVAC technicians should also have good customer service, communication, and time management skills.
If you enjoy trouble-shooting and solving problems and being out in the field working with your hands, the average day of a HVAC technician might be a good fit for you. The HVACR training program at Fortis can get you started. Visit our website for more information and to find an HVACR training program near you. Or, call 1-855-436-7847 to speak with a representative today.