How to become an HVAC technician. Do you want to pursue a career in the HVAC industry? Becoming an HVAC technician can be a fulfilling journey, offering not only lucrative opportunities but also a chance to work in diverse environments and interact with interesting people and pets. Let’s explore the steps you can take to kickstart your career in the HVAC industry.

Getting Started: The Basics of HVAC Installation

If you’re wondering how HVAC technicians tackle tasks like replacing an entire AC unit, Brody, an experienced technician, provides insights into the process. Starting with the condenser and air handler replacement, he emphasizes the importance of pumping down the condenser to remove refrigerant, cutting copper lines, and handling wiring. Most of the intricate work is done in the attic, making it a crucial space for an HVAC technician.

Brody shares that he began his HVAC career through a connection, highlighting that while EPA certifications are necessary, they aren’t a prerequisite to start in the field. The initial phase involves learning the ropes, from removing ducts to separating coils and handling various components. One of the perks Brody enjoys is encountering pets during installations, adding an element of excitement to the job that goes beyond the technicalities.

Choosing Your Path: Installer or Service Technician

Brody offers valuable advice for aspiring HVAC professionals, suggesting that those interested in becoming service technicians should consider formal education. However, if your goal is installation, getting hands-on experience by applying for positions and learning on the job can be equally effective. Brody advises against being overly picky initially, encouraging newcomers to absorb as much knowledge as possible before selecting the ideal company or specialization.

Understanding HVAC Systems: A Glimpse into the Workings

Explaining the HVAC system’s functionality, Brody details how the air handler works by pulling in air from the house through the return, passing it over the coil, and then distributing it back through the ducts. Whether it’s heating or cooling, the system’s components, including the furnace and coil, play a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.

Brody acknowledges the importance of education, recommending that even installers benefit from learning the basics in a formal setting. However, he highlights the significance of hands-on experience, asserting that practical learning in the field trumps theoretical knowledge for many.

Choosing Your HVAC Career Path

Aspiring HVAC technicians have various entry points into the industry. Brody outlines two primary routes: attending a tech or trade school for certifications or entering the field through a company, possibly starting in construction. He emphasizes that HVAC is a dynamic field, offering financial rewards and job diversity. Brody’s on-site experience witnessing a complete AC system replacement showcases the challenges and rewards of the job, emphasizing the intriguing and fulfilling nature of a career in HVAC.

In conclusion, if you’re contemplating how to become an HVAC technician, Brody’s insights provide a roadmap for both aspiring service technicians and installers. With dedication, a willingness to learn, and hands-on experience, you can embark on a rewarding career in the HVAC industry, where every day brings new challenges and opportunities.