What kind of math is used in HVAC?

Author: Adriana Carter  |  Last update: Thursday, November 27, 2025

To be an HVAC technician, a baseline level of mathematical understanding is required. For example, you will need to be able to read tables, plug data into formulas, and use basic math principles like addition, subtraction, division, fractions, decimals, squares, and roots.

What type of math is needed in HVAC?

Yes. HVAC technicians need a solid grasp of basic math, including adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing. The job does not typically require more advanced equations used in engineering. However, HVAC technicians often plug data into formulas such as Ohm's law, which can help them troubleshoot electrical issues.

Does HVAC take 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.

What is the formula for HVAC?

Relative Humidity = moisture present / total moisture air can hold Specific Humidity = mass of water vapor / total mass of moist air parcel Dew Point Temperature (in degrees Celsius) = observed temperature (in degrees Celsius) - ((100 - relative humidity percentage) / 5) The formula for determining dew point ...

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.

HVAC Math doesn't have to be hard.

What is the highest paid 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.

How to do HVAC calculations?

Calculate the HVAC load

(House surface in square feet) x (height of the ceiling) (Number of occupants) x 100 BTU. (Number of exterior doors) x 1,000 BTU. (Number of windows) x 1,000 BTU.

What is the rule of thumb for HVAC?

This rule of thumb states that the MAX heating capacity required for your comfort cooling application is 1.7 x the cooling load. For example, if the cooling required is 30 tons (360,000 btus), then the MAX heating capacity required would be 612,000 btus (1.7 x 360,000).

What is the formula for calculating AC A?

The stimulus AC/A ratio was calculated by dividing the change in deviation in prism diopters by the change in lens power (gradient method). To determine response AC/A ratio, simultaneous measurement of accommodative response and convergence (heterophoria) using the modified thorington technique was adapted.

Does HVAC require calculus?

An HVAC career doesn't typically require advanced math skills. HVACR technicians do need basic math skills, like the ability to read a tape measure, calculate basic load requirements and use fractions.

What jobs don't require math?

These include positions such as Security Officers, Editorial Managers, Therapists, Music Teachers, Marketing Managers, Historians, Web Developers, and Art Directors, each offering insights into their roles, salary expectations, and the skills required, which notably do not center around math.

Do you have to be smart to learn HVAC?

Some basic mathematics skills are helpful in HVAC installation, repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting. A comfort with numbers is crucial, since HVAC depends on decimals, fractions, unit rates, and other applications of numeration. Knowing a little logic helps make sense of electrical circuits.

How hard is HVAC math?

HVAC technicians do need to understand basic math, such as adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing. Usually, the job of being a HVAC technician does not require you to do advanced equations that are used in engineering.

Is HVAC physically hard?

Physical demands: The job can be physically demanding. HVAC technicians often need to work in confined spaces, crawl into tight areas, and lift heavy equipment.

How do I study for the HVAC exam?

6 Study Tips for Taking an HVAC Certification Exam
  1. HVAC/R School Training. ...
  2. Hands-On Practice. ...
  3. HVAC Practice Exams. ...
  4. Review Notes, Homework and Relevant Exams During Training. ...
  5. Switch Between Topics of Study. ...
  6. Get Plenty of Sleep.

What is the 20 degree rule for HVAC?

Simply put, it means you should never set your thermostat for a temperature more than 20 degrees cooler than the outside air. Why not? Most air conditioning systems can only handle a 20-degree difference between the outside and inside air temperatures.

Is HVAC a 9 to 5?

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 is the 2 foot rule in HVAC?

The air now has to re-pressurize to regain its turbulent flow so it can continue to push its way down the duct. It requires about 24′ or two feet to do this. This is the 'Two-Foot Rule?. Ideally, you should allow at least 24′ between takeoffs and at the end of any duct run.

What is the formula for HVAC flow rate?

Diameter and Velocity

For example, let's say there's a duct with an 8-inch diameter and the velocity of the fluid is 20 feet/second. The formula to calculate the estimated HVAC flow rate would be: 3.14 × [{(8/12) × (8/12)} / 4] × 20 = 6.978 cubic feet/second.

How do you calculate HVAC sizing?

Size Your Commercial HVAC System in Five Steps
  1. Calculate the square footage of the space you want to cool. ...
  2. Divide the square footage area by 500.
  3. Multiply the result from Step 2 by 12,000.
  4. Add 380 Btu for each building occupant, plus 1,200 Btu for each kitchen and 1,000 Btu for each window in the space.

What is the formula for SEER in HVAC?

A unit's SEER is calculated by dividing the total number of BTUs of heat removed from the air by the total amount of energy required by the unit. The higher the ratio, the more efficient the unit.

What is the hardest trade to learn?

Two of the trades generally considered to be the most difficult to learn are electricians and plumbers.

Can you teach yourself HVAC?

Self-teaching HVAC is a challenging approach to HVAC training. Still, it can work if you are very motivated and organized.

Is HVAC a stressful job?

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.

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