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If you’ve ever taken apart your air conditioner do you know how to fix it?
According to the Federal Bureau of Labor, the field of heating, ventilation and air conditioning will have an average of about 38,500 openings each year, over the decade. If you’re interested in a career in HVAC, you need to know what it takes.
Are you a handyman? Interested in engineering or science? Read our guide to learn how to prepare yourself for a career in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
Start Early
The best way to prepare yourself for a career in HVAC is to start early. That means getting involved in your high school’s HVAC program if they have one.
The high school’s HVAC program can help you prepare for a career in HVAC by providing you with the necessary training and education. The program can give you the opportunity to learn about the different aspects of HVAC, such as installation, repair, and maintenance. Additionally, the program can also help you develop the necessary skills to become a successful HVAC technician.
Get an HVAC Degree
Although you can become an HVAC technician without a degree, having a degree in HVAC can give you an advantage when applying for jobs. With a degree, you will have a better understanding of the technology and be able to troubleshoot problems more easily. You will also be able to take on more responsibility and advance in your career more quickly.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in HVAC, you should research different HVAC programs and find one that is accredited and offers the coursework you are interested in. Many trade schools and community colleges offer certificate or degree programs in HVAC, so look into those as well.
How long are trade schools? Many community colleges offer HVAC programs that can be completed in two years or less. Upon completion of an HVAC program, you should then be able to take refrigeration, air conditioning, and ventilation exams to earn your certification.
Many of these programs even offer job placement assistance. In addition, many community colleges have close relationships with local HVAC companies and can help you get your foot in the door with an internship or entry-level position.
Gain Experience
There are a few things you can do to gain experience in the HVAC industry before you even begin your career. You can start by shadowing an HVAC technician to see what the job entails on a day-to-day basis.
You can look into HVAC training programs that will give you the hands-on experience you need to be successful in this field. You can also find an apprenticeship program or entry-level position with an HVAC company. Many of these companies are always looking for eager and passionate individuals to join their teams.
Once you have some experience under your belt, you can then start to specialize in a certain area of HVAC, such as residential or commercial. There are many different avenues you can take when it comes to a career in HVAC, so do your research and find the path that best suits you.
Prepare Physically
If you’re thinking about a career in HVAC, you need to make sure you have the physical strength and stamina to do the job. It’s a physically demanding job that requires lifting, carrying, and moving heavy equipment.
You must be physically prepared to work in uncomfortable and sometimes hazardous conditions. You must be comfortable working around high voltage electrical components. Also, be prepared to work long hours, as many HVAC systems must be operational at all times.
It is also important to have good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity, as you will be working with small parts and tight spaces. Good problem-solving skills are also a must, as you will be diagnosing and repairing complex systems. If you have the physical and mental ability to handle the challenges of an HVAC career, you can be sure to find success in this growing industry.
Learn the Business
Before you can fix someone’s furnace, you need to understand how the business of HVAC works. Read trade publications, attend industry conferences, and get to know the major players in the field.
Read trade publications to stay up-to-date on the latest industry news and trends. This will help you learn about new products, advances in technology, and best practices. By staying informed, you will be able to provide your customers with the best possible service.
If you attend industry conferences, you will not only learn about the latest industry trends and find out about new products, but you’ll also have a chance to network with other professionals. Attending conferences is a great way to get your name and face out there, and you never know when you might make a valuable connection.
You should also get to know the major players in the field. There are a few key manufacturers of HVAC equipment, so familiarize yourself with their products. Additionally, get to know the common terms used in the HVAC industry and what they mean.
You also need to learn the business side of things, like marketing and accounting. A solid understanding of the business will make you a more well-rounded HVAC professional.
Be Patient
A career in HVAC can be extremely rewarding, but it can also be quite challenging. There are a few things you can do to prepare yourself for a successful career in this field.
First, be patient. The training process can be long and difficult, but it will be worth it in the end.
Second, be adaptable. The HVAC industry is constantly changing, so you need to be able to adapt to new technologies and new methods.
Finally, be persistent. Don’t give up when things get tough. If you really want a career in HVAC, you need to be willing to put in the work.
Get Started with Your Career in HVAC Today
If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in HVAC, there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself. If you’re willing to put in the work, it can be rewarding, both professionally and financially.
Check out our blog to learn more about finding a promising career. You’ll learn tips to help you succeed in your chosen field. You’ll also get access to our comprehensive job guide.Visit the blog today and start learning!
