How long do HVAC people work?

Author: Heidi O'Keefe  |  Last update: Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Your work schedule depends on whether you're an apprentice, intern, or experienced technician. As an apprentice or intern, you need to work between 15 and 30 hours a week. However, experienced technicians working full-time amass 40 or more hours every week.

How long do HVAC workers work?

In conclusion, HVAC technicians typically work a 40-hour week, but their schedule can vary depending on factors such as extreme temperatures or peak seasons. They may work longer hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet high demand or project timelines.

How late do HVAC techs work?

There is no set schedule for an HVAC Technician. The schedule for an HVAC technician truly depends on the company they work for and the type of equipment they work on. Most maintenance work or installations are done during regular business hours. Repairs to systems may be needed at any time, even after hours.

Do HVAC workers get weekends off?

HVAC Techs are Often On-Call

As an HVAC technician, you may not have a typical 9-to-5 schedule. Depending on the job, the weather, and the emergency, you might be called into work early in the morning or late in the evening. You may be on-call for occasional weekends or holidays.

What age do HVAC techs retire?

Great Retirement. Those in HVAC positions can join the local Pipefitters & Steamfitters union which provides support and access to jobs and resources. Union benefits mean that many HVAC mechanics can retire at 55 and pull their full pension from the union.

So you want to be a HVAC technician? | 10 things you should know before you decide 🔥❄️

Do HVAC techs make 6 figures?

The short answer is yes. With the right training, experience, and communication skills it's very possible to make over $100,000 per year as an HVAC tech. In 2024, the HVAC technician salary range for the HVAC trade was between $30 per hour, and $43 per hour depending upon certification and HVAC training.

Is HVAC one of the hardest jobs?

Is HVAC One of the Hardest Jobs? Depending on how you look at it, HVAC can be seen as a difficult job, or it can be seen as a great challenge. Repairing AC and heating equipment is one of the skilled trades that requires a lot of technical knowledge and hands-on skills.

Is HVAC a 9-5 job?

HVAC Technician with a Regular Work Schedule or Providing Emergency Services on Demand. You may find yourself working a standard 9-5 job, with predictable hours. Or, if you are more flexible, you may forge a career in after-hours work for a company that provides emergency services 24/7.

Is HVAC a stable job?

As the industry is only expected to grow, it's a career that is sure to offer some stability since HVAC Technicians must be physically present at the scene of an HVAC system to repair and/or install such systems.

Do HVAC workers get dirty?

HVAC technicians work mostly hands-on, and each day can look different depending on the project. Daniel shared that ideally, technicians are mechanically inclined, and don't mind getting dirty or working late hours when needed.

Can HVAC techs make 100K?

Yes, HVAC technicians can earn $100K a year, especially in the highest paying states or specialized fields such as commercial HVAC or system design. As service techs gain experience and move into higher positions or own their businesses, their annual pay can reach or exceed this threshold.

What is the highest paying HVAC job?

High Paying HVAC Jobs
  • Thermal Engineer. Salary range: $80,000-$129,000 per year. ...
  • Hvac Project Manager. Salary range: $80,000-$112,000 per year. ...
  • Hvac Sales Representative. Salary range: $59,500-$110,000 per year. ...
  • Cfd Engineer. ...
  • HVAC Engineer. ...
  • HVAC Design Engineer. ...
  • Hvac Estimator. ...
  • Hvac Residential Service Technician.

Is HVAC hard to learn?

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) is a complex and multifaceted field that can be challenging for beginners to learn. However, with dedication, persistence, and the right resources, anyone can develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this industry.

What is the typical work schedule for HVAC?

As an apprentice or intern, you need to work between 15 and 30 hours a week. However, experienced technicians working full-time amass 40 or more hours every week. You could also take part-time opportunities, which are usually plentiful. In addition, be ready for emergencies and sometimes working overtime.

Is HVAC hard on the body?

Is HVAC a Hard Career? While HVAC can be physically demanding, it can also be very rewarding. As a technician you'll need to be able to: Work in unpleasant settings, such as tight or messy spaces.

What is the average age of an HVAC worker?

It is estimated that the average age of an HVAC Technician is around 55 years old. As the HVAC industry ages, many companies are seeking to higher younger qualified workers.

How happy are HVAC workers?

On average, HVAC technicians rate the meaningfulness of their work a 2.6/5. The majority of HVAC technicians struggle to find any sort of meaning in their work, likely resulting in less satisfaction with the career overall.

Is HVAC school worth it?

Key Takeaways. HVAC school is a practical, efficient path to a stable and well-paying career. The training requires a relatively low time commitment and offers a more affordable route than a traditional 4-year degree.

How stressful is HVAC?

High levels of stress and irritability associated with HVAC tech burnout often translates into poor communication, increased aggressiveness, and a lack of empathy towards both customers and team members, creating a negative workplace for all.

Do HVAC make 6 figures?

For example, if you search for jobs in the HVAC industry on HVACJobsCenter.com, you'll see that companies such as Baker Home Energy in Escondido, California are hiring candidates with a salary starting at $100k and above, if you meet qualifications.

Is HVAC a jack of all trades?

Multi-Talented / Jack-of-All-Trades

Not only are we setting equipment, but we're also involved in plumbing gas lines and condensate drainage, working with high and low voltage, constructing new platforms, cutting in supply registers in rooms, enlarging returns and even cutting holes through rooftops to place new units.

What are the cons of working in HVAC?

CON: HVAC Has Occupational Safety Hazards

HVAC technicians suffer more on-the-job injuries than workers in many other professions because they are often working with heavy equipment, extreme heat and/or cold, not to mention they are subjected to hazardous materials from time to time.

What's the most stressful trade?

Warehousing and storage is the most stressful industry in the U.S. scoring 28.92/100. The data found that 93% of workers reported being paid hourly.

Is HVAC a lot of math?

HVAC Technicians need to be able to do some basic calculations to determine the amount of refrigerant to use in a system, translate a blueprint design, and understand the amount of electricity that a system needs. You don't have to be a mathematician, but you should feel comfortable with basic algebra.

Can you become a millionaire in HVAC?

Can you become a millionaire with HVAC? While it is possible become a millionaire in the HVAC industry, it depends on various factors, including your: Business management.

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