Mechanics in the complex heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry are critical to keeping the rest of us comfortable in our homes and offices. An HVAC mechanic is in charge of installing and maintaining a variety of commercial and residential heating and cooling systems. An HVAC mechanic should be well-versed in electrical properties, physical science, and the mechanical processes that enable HVAC systems to function.
Heat pumps, furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration units, and a variety of other ventilation and heating and cooling systems are all serviced HVAC mechanics. They must be familiar with both gas- and electric-powered devices, as well as systems that use alternative energy sources. HVAC mechanics often specialize because there are so many different types of systems. Some mechanics specialize in either heating or refrigeration, whereas others work with large industrial machines or smaller residential systems.
Motors, fuel lines, air vents, fans, and pumps are all installed and troubleshooted HVAC mechanics. They must be confident in their ability to connect electrical wires, use precision hand and power tools, and read a variety of gauges. To work on HVAC systems, an HVAC mechanic combines his or her practical knowledge with information from blueprints and instruction manuals. As a result, an HVAC mechanic must have excellent reading comprehension skills as well as the ability to comprehend complex diagrams.
HVAC mechanics typically work forty hours per week, with frequent overtime. The majority of people work for electrical, plumbing, or heating and air conditioning companies. Others may work for specialized repair shops, wholesale distributors, or retail establishments. An HVAC mechanic with several years of experience and a working knowledge of administrative duties could start his or her own contracting company.
A prospective HVAC mechanic is usually required to complete an accredited technical school program as well as apprenticeship training. HVAC training programs are available at hundreds of vocational schools, community colleges, and online courses. The duration of such programs can range from six months to two years. Apprenticeships last one or two years and involve learning from and assisting experienced HVAC mechanics.
After completing the necessary education and training, an HVAC mechanic is usually required to take a licensing exam in order to work in a particular state or country. Although many employers consider HVAC certification to be a plus, it is not usually required. Several accredited agencies, including HVAC Excellence and the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Safety Coalition, administer certification tests.