Heating technicians are in charge of installing, maintaining, and repairing heat systems in homes, businesses, and industries. They have the ability to read blueprints and connect wires. Heating technicians are skilled at taking measurements, cutting pipes, connecting pipes, and welding as needed. Heating technicians also perform routine maintenance in order to keep heating systems operating efficiently.
The heating technician may be called on to replace filters or clean ducts during the spring and summer when the weather is warmer. Heating technicians may perform tasks such as adjusting burners or blowers during the winter months when the weather is colder. If the heat system does not appear to be working, they may inspect the burner nozzle, controls, or thermostat to determine the source of the problem.
Apprenticeship programs that lead to trade certification are common for heating technicians. Because there are so many different types of heating, such as gas, electric, oil, and coal, this is a difficult career to prepare for. Pumps, motors, fans, compressors, ducts, thermostats, and various switches are also found in heat systems. Heating technicians must be familiar with all of these different types of heating systems and be able to repair any problem that arises.
The heating technician must have very steady hands in addition to having heating repair skills. To make necessary repairs, it is frequently necessary to reach under, over, or around parts of heaters. A heating technician must also have good concentration and the ability to work in stressful situations.
For example, a heating technician might be called late at night in the winter when someone’s heater breaks down. Because his heater is broken and the house is cold, this is a stressful time for the homeowner. Heating technicians must be able to handle such pressure while still diagnosing and repairing the heater effectively.
Keep in mind that a heating technician’s hours will vary. Heating technicians, for example, may work 40 hours per week under normal circumstances. Work could take place at any time during the day or on weekends as needed. Heating technicians could work longer hours per week during the winter months because it is critical to have a working heater when it is extremely cold outside.
Heating technicians can work for companies that provide heating services or repair, schools, or government agencies. With a few years of experience, heating technicians can advance to supervisory positions or start their own heating repair business. They could, on the other hand, work in the service industry, such as air conditioning repair or heating insulation.