How To Become an HVAC Technician
By: Jenn Brusco
January 2025
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) technicians are essential to not only commercial facilities management, but also residential property management.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 9% growth for this career through 2033, which is considered much faster than average. This growth is attributed, in part, to an aging workforce that is headed toward retirement. This churn creates new opportunities for individuals seeking to begin a new career as an HVAC technician.
Before we dig into the steps needed to become an HVAC technician, let’s first explore some of the primary job responsibilities and anticipated salary potential for this career.
Primary job responsibilities of an HVAC Technician
An HVAC technician is responsible for the care and maintenance of HVACR equipment, helping to create more comfortable and safe environments for facility visitors or inhabitants. Among their primary responsibilities, HVAC technicians may:
- Install, maintain, and repair HVACR systems
- Inspect and test HVACR systems and components
- Clean air ducts and replace filters
- Check refrigeration levels
- Document maintenance activities
- Provide updates on any system malfunctions and recommends mitigation and remediation strategies
- Make recommendations to improve system performance
Salary potential of HVAC Technician
The median annual salary for an HVAC technician is $57,300. The states with the highest paying HVAC technician jobs are:
- District of Columbia (DC): $77,970
- Alaska: $75,660
- Massachusetts: $75,190
- Hawaii: $74,200
- Washington: $72,340
Salary rates may vary based on location, years of experience, and knowledge of specific equipment, systems, and technology.
Steps to get started as an HVAC Technician
The career potential for an HVAC technician is high for individuals interested in taking on this skilled trade. Entering this career field is a fairly straightforward process:
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require candidates to have a high school diploma or equivalent to be considered for an entry-level role or apprenticeship.
- Complete career skills training, focused on HVACR. Gain career-focused education and skills needed to understand the basics of HVACR equipment, technology, and processes. U.S. Career Institute provides this foundational knowledge through our HVACR certificate program.
After you have completed your HVAC training program, you will be ready to apply for an entry-level position or an apprenticeship, both of which will allow you to work closely with an experienced HVACR professional.
Additional industry-specific certification may be beneficial as you grow in your career, such as:
- Section 608 Technician Certification for proper refrigerant handling, offered through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Certified Assistant Refrigeration Operator (CARO), Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator (CIRO), Certified Refrigeration Service Technician (CRST), offered through the Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association
A career as an HVAC technician is within reach. The first step is to ensure you have the knowledge and skills needed to become a productive member of the HVAC team. An HVAC certificate from U.S. Career Institute demonstrates your intent to pursue this career and validates that you have acquired the educational foundation needed for an entry-level position or apprenticeship. It’s the steppingstone you need for a fresh start in your career.
