While HVAC technician training and certification is time consuming and, in some cases, expensive, the time and money invested in this education will certainly be worth it. There is a great demand for licensed and qualified HVAC technicians, thus making HVAC jobs ( αποφραξεις αθηνα ) readily available for those who have completed all of the necessary training. Average salaries vary according to experience and education, but all are within or above the national average.
HVAC Job Description
HVAC technician jobs are comprised of a number of different tasks, skills, and responsibilities. Generally, HVAC technicians are expected to be able to do the following on a daily basis: install HVAC systems (air conditioners, heaters, ventilations systems, etc.) in both residential homes and larger commercial businesses, repair the mechanical and electrical circuitry of HVAC systems, replace any necessary parts, identify and troubleshoot small problems or glitches in an HVAC unit, install and replace refrigerant in cooling systems, and lay electrical tubing or copper wire.
HVAC Salary
The salary of an HVAC technician depends on his or her level of expertise, educational background, and specialty licensing. For example, an HVAC refrigeration technician makes an average yearly salary of $43,000, while an HVAC residential service technician can make up to $73,000 a year. Generally, HVAC technician jobs offer higher salaries when the technician is expected to have a wider base of knowledge and practical skills, a primary reason why a technician who only specializes in refrigeration units will make less than someone who handles all residential HVAC needs.
HVAC Technician Job Outlook
Employment opportunities for HVAC technicians are expected to rise steadily over the next several years. In fact, jobs are expected to increase 28% within the period between 2008-2018, a much larger growth percentage than the average American career sector. This estimated increase in HVAC technician jobs is partially attributed to increasing environmental concerns on the part of homeowners and business owners, who are looking to install more eco-friendly heating and cooling systems—a task that almost always requires the aid of an HVAC specialist.
Safety Concerns
The average working conditions that define HVAC technician jobs are not always ideal, and can pose many potential hazards. For example, the area in which an HVAC unit or system must be installed is often dusty, moldy, and filled with potential allergens or hazardous substances like asbestos or chlorofluorocarbons. Therefore, HVAC technicians need to take many safety precautions while on the job, such as wearing protective clothing, facemasks, and eyewear. Additionally, technicians should be on the alert for exposed wires and flammable materials or substances on site.
Some commercial HVAC technician jobs, which offer annual salaries close to $100,000, are highly coveted. These are also the positions that require the most training and experience. Those who are dedicated to a career in the HVAC industry, and who are looking to be promoted to senior level technician status, should concentrate not only on solid on-the-job performance, but also on obtaining all necessary certifications required for upper-level technician positions.