Wed, Oct 6th, 2010 @ 12:00 am

HVAC-R technicians are responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of air conditioning, ventilation, and advanced heating systems. As the technology of these systems continues to grow, so has the need for qualified technicians. Due to high demand for this skill, many HVAC-R technicians choose self-employment, as others work for various employers on a full time basis.

The work of HVAC-R technician is of a technical nature. The installation, maintenance, and repair of complex heating, air conditioning, and ventilation units requires specialized schooling. Technicians respond to service calls under a variety of weather conditions, day and night, and should be prepared to work in high or tight places under challenging conditions.

Overall Outlook

The career outlook for HVAC-R technicians remains strong, as wages and benefits are excellent. Demand for technicians will continue to grow through 2016, due to the large increase in home and commercial building construction that occurred in 2006. It is predicted that growth will continue as more technicians will be set to retire during this time period. (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics)

Traditionally, HVAC-R technicians received training on the job. However, the number of employers preferring technical school graduates over technicians with no formal training continues to grow at a rapid rate. Technical school training and certification for HVAC-R technicians is now the standard, rather than the exception. HVACR technicians can expect to receive additional on the job training after graduation and certification, as they become more familiar with individual air conditioning, ventilation, and heating systems out in the field.

Because of danger and safety issues, many states are now making licensure a mandatory requirement. For those who are planning on entering the HVAC-R career field, a quality education and certification from a technical school is becoming mandatory. For those interested in top wages and benefits, with excellent career opportunities, becoming a HVAC-R technician would be a great career.