Yes. You can do HVAC work, even if you are Claustrophobic.
First Thoughts
There are a lot of misconceptions regarding HVAC careers. When folks hear the word HVAC, they imagine Bruce Willis crawling through an airduct. They also think of sneezing through a haunted, dusty attic. Yes, this is part of the day-to-day life of many residential technicians. This doesn’t illustrate all the options that you will have as a HVAC Technician.
The reality is that the HVAC field offers a wide range of career paths. This includes a variety of roles that can keep you out of the crawlspace.
Commercial HVAC Technician
These technicians work with large scale systems. These systems are usually found in skyscrapers, factories, malls and schools. Their units can usually be found in the roof, mechanical rooms or sometimes in the basement. So, there won’t be any attic excursions for you.
Since you are dealing with larger systems, you get bigger pay. The environments where the systems are located are usually clean. Bigger units malfunction more often. Since they are in core industries, you get called to work more often. So, the profit margin of this path is bigger than just servicing residential Air conditioner units.
HVAC Controls Technician or Building Automation
This technical job deals with installing and programming the software in charge of ventilation. This includes programing the temperature and making the AC unit energy efficient. It combines both the software and hardware aspect of your career path.
This is ideal for tech-literate fellows. There is also a growing demand for smart buildings. By sharpening your programming skills, you can cater to this niche group of technophiles who wish to automate every aspect of their AC experience.
Refrigerator Technician
Believe it or not, you can make a good living by specializing in repairing refrigerators. Groceries are highly dependent on their cold storage to keep their meat and vegetables produce from spoiling. Technicians often work indoors, in temperature-controlled areas. The best part about this job is that you won’t have to crawl through attics to get the refrigerator fixed. Cold storage is also found in hospitals and restaurants. So, you can expect a high demand for your services in these core industries.
Preservative Maintenance Technician
This position performs routine service and inspection of HVAC system. It doesn’t involve emergency breakdowns. All you will have to do is check the filters, gauges, belts and electronic components. It won’t require crawling through airducts or crawlspace. The best part about it is that this job has a predictable schedule. It is ideal for entry level workers, who require a job with less physical strain.
HVAC Sales and System Designer
HVAC Technicians are not required to perform much physical labor. It will be your job to also design the systems that cater to each customer’s needs. After you finish your assessment and calculations, it will be your job to coordinate the effort of the crawl that will do the heavy lifting for you. This job is perfect for workers who prefer a management position. This role often includes commissions, a laptop and a company Car.
One Last Thing
Not all HVAC jobs are the same. Some do involve getting into tight spaces. There are other roles that allow you to work in a clean environment. In the HVAC industry, you don’t need to work in a dusty attic forever. If you are looking for a stable, roomy workspace, the HVAC career does have roles, just for you.
Q & A
What does HVAC mean?
Answer: HVAC letters stand for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning.
What is SEER rating, and why you should care?
Answer: SEER is Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The greater the SEER rating, the more efficient the AC unit.
Can I install an HVAC system by myself?
Answer: The short answer is No. The long answer is that HVAC installation requires permits, EPA certification, and expert knowledge. Improper installation often voids your warranties and cause safety hazards.
Why did the HVAC tech break up with the thermostat?
Answer: Because it just wasn’t giving him the right signals!