Working as an HVAC technician offers a range of benefits, from high demand and job security to attractive compensation and the opportunity for continuous learning. The field is constantly evolving, allowing technicians to stay ahead with new technology and skills.
HVAC work is a hands-on skilled trade, so you need to be comfortable working with tools and equipment, and working inside people's homes. No matter whether you specialize in commercial HVAC or residential HVAC, a certified HVAC technician has a lot of opportunity to earn a good salary, and have good job security.
Meanwhile, heating and cooling mechanics and installers slide up to second for women with a divorce rate of 4.41%, and receptionists and clerks land in second for men with a divorce rate of 3.12%.
HVAC technicians serve as part of an essential workforce. As HVAC technology continues to evolve with smarter and more energy-efficient features and tools, these workers will remain in high demand for the foreseeable future, and beyond.
Job Security – HVAC service can't be exported. Service jobs have never left the U.S. like some other industries have, and they never will. Become a Millionaire – A lot of contractors are young millionaires because HVAC is an industry where it's possible to go from mechanic to millionaire in less than a decade.
Being an HVAC technician is a very physically demanding job. Not only do you perform hands-on work most of the time, but a lot of the work is done on rooftops and in attic spaces where the air is not conditioned.
Approximately 20 percent of HVAC contractors fail across the industry every year, with 70 percent of new HVAC businesses failing in their first year of operation. Smaller HVAC contractors with annual revenue below $1 million typically would not consider expanding into home energy upgrade services.
AC's Shift From Luxury to Necessity
Since its invention, cooling has often been regarded as a luxury. But as time goes on and summers become noticeably hotter, perspectives have changed.
Plumbers make a little more than HVAC Techs on average. The national average for plumbers is $55,000, and for HVAC techs it is $48,000. Some people do both, and the average salary for them is $60,000. Plumbers and HVAC technicians have comparable salaries.
A heating or cooling system is a significant investment, and it only makes sense to get as much use out of it as possible. In general, most HVAC systems will last 15 to 25 years, but depending on the type of system and other contributing factors, that estimate can be highly variable.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Two of the trades generally considered to be the most difficult to learn are electricians and plumbers.
Salary, Opportunities, and Growth
Both HVAC technicians and electricians earn similar compensation, though the average annual salary for electricians is about $5,000 higher than that of HVAC techs. Both have a large disparity in pay between the highest and lowest-earning ten percent of professionals.
The future of HVAC will revolve around sustainability, customer-centric services and the integration of smart technologies. The industry's commitment to environmental preservation, combined with innovative business models and automation, will lead to a more efficient, eco-friendly air conditioning experience for users.
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.
It's a serious profession that requires training and licensure in most states. The pros of being an HVAC technician are many, including a good salary and a stable career. The cons are few but should still be considered before deciding on this career path.
The top 10% of HVAC business owners earned over $78,000 annually. The good news is that HVAC business owners have the potential to increase their yearly revenue to above $3 Million or more. With an average profit margin of 10%, this means that the HVAC owner's profit would be close to $300,000 per year.