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Average
Salary & Job Outlook
HVAC
Tech
Median wages (2005)
$17.81 hourly
U.S. Minimum wage (2005)
$5.15 hourly
Since most HVAC techs work over 40 hours per week and many have “on call” positions, the US Department of Labor measures salaries on an hourly basis. The median hourly pay rate for HVAC techs was $17.81 in 2005. HVAC techs just beginning work will receive about 50% of the wage rate of other HVAC techs, but as their skills and experience increase their wages will increase as well.
In 2004, HVAC techs held about 270,000 jobs. The demand for HVAC
techs is expected to remain strong and will grow faster than
average during the next ten years. Technicians who specialize
in new installations only may face a cyclical dip as record new
housing construction may dip over the next few years. |
What
is an HVAC tech?
An HVAC tech is a Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
technician.
Advances in technology, new construction of homes
and businesses, renovation of older homes and buildings
and an ever increasing population create stable work
environment for HVAC techs.
What are other common tasks of an HVAC tech?
HVAC techs may work in a variety of business types
including HVAC manufacturers, privately owned contractors
or institutional buildings like shopping malls, apartments
and schools.
HVAC techs main responsibilities include:
- Installation
of HVAC units, including electronic and mechanical
components
- Installation of HVAC ductwork including
flexible tubing and sheet metal construction
- Troubleshoot
and repair HVAC units including electronic and
mechanical components
- Install or repair fuel and water supply
lines
- Conserve, install and recycle refrigerants
- Install
or repair electrical connections to HVAC components
- Install
or repair HVAC system automation components for
businesses or “smart homes”
Safety must be considered in dealing with electricity,
flammable fuel lines and CFC chemicals. HVAC
techs may have to fish wires or pipes through existing
constructions. Respiratory precautions may also
be taken because of exposure to dust, refrigeration
chemicals and possibly asbestos in older buildings. |
