Learn About the HVAC Tech Job Description, Salary, and Requirements.
HVAC Tech Job Description & Definition
What Does an HVAC Tech Do?
In this profile, we’ll break down the HVAC Tech job description, salary, requirements, and more. HVAC (Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers) are responsible to repair, install, and maintain heating, cooling, and ventilation systems used in buildings to control air temperature and quality.
The work can be both residential or commercial. As an HVAC tech you’ll be working in everything from schools and factories, to homes, to corporate office buildings and more. You may be responsible to work during some irregular hours if a system goes down and is in need of repair, or if you don’t have access to a building during regular work hours.

Learn HVAC basics online.
Duties
- Troubleshooting and repairing HVAC systems.
- Testing systems to ensure proper air quality and temperature.
- Installation of HVAC systems.
- Maintenance of HVAC systems.
- Selling maintenance packages (if residential).
Skills Required
- Ablity to troubleshoot HVAC systems.
- Thorough understanding of heating, cooling, and refrigeration.
- Ability to use tools associated with the trade.
- Math.
- Blueprint reading.
Education Needed
Generally, this position requires a high school diploma, and entering through an apprenticeship to learn the trade.
Qualifications
Depending on your State, you may need to become licensed.
HVAC Tech Salary
How Much Does an HVAC Tech Make?
$30,000
$50,000
$78,000
HVAC Tech Career Paths
Where Can You Go From Here?
To become an HVAC tech, you must get HVAC training and find an apprenticeship.
Sample Resume
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Sources:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition, Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers,
on the Internet at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm (visited August 01, 2017). - Residential HVAC Technician: Job Description & Requirements, Study.com, 2017 on the Internet at http://study.com/articles/Residential_HVAC_Technician_Job_Description_and_Requirements_for_Becoming_a_Residential_HVAC_Tech.html (visited July 20, 2017).
- HVAC Training, How to Become an HVAC Tech, 2017 on the internet at http://www.hvactraining.net/becoming-an-hvac-technician/ (visited July 20, 2017).
- Payscale, Estimator Salary, on the Internet at http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=HVAC_Service_Technician/Hourly_Rate (visited July 20, 2017).