How to Be HVAC Repair Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 30, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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When HVAC repair technicians identify an issue with an HVAC system, they must accurately diagnose the problem in order to determine the most effective repair solution. In order to do this, they must consider multiple factors, such as the age of the system, the type of problem, the severity of the issue, and any potential underlying causes. Once they have identified the cause of the malfunction, they can then determine the best course of action, which may include replacing or repairing components, lubricating parts, or adding refrigerant or other fluids. By providing timely and accurate repairs, technicians can help ensure efficient and safe operation of HVAC systems and maintain comfortable temperatures for their customers.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. In order to become an HVAC repair technician, you must first obtain a high school diploma or a GED.
Enroll in an HVAC Training Program. After obtaining a high school diploma or GED, the next step is to enroll in an HVAC training program. Many trade schools, community colleges and technical schools offer programs in HVAC repair.
Earn an HVAC Certification. After completing an HVAC training program, you should seek certification from one of the major HVAC associations, such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) or the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES). Earning a certification from one of these organizations will demonstrate your proficiency in the field and make you more attractive to employers.
Gain Industry Experience. After earning your certification, the next step is to gain industry experience. You can do this by working as an apprentice for an established HVAC technician or contractor. This will allow you to familiarize yourself with the equipment and processes associated with the job.
Find Employment. The final step is to find employment as an HVAC repair technician. You can look for positions at local HVAC companies or post your resume online on job search sites. You may also want to contact your local union to see if they have any available positions.

Staying ahead and capable as an HVAC Repair Technician requires dedication and commitment to continuous learning. Keeping up with the latest technologies, industry standards, and safety protocols is essential for success in this field. Having a wide base of knowledge, understanding how systems work, and staying abreast of new developments are all key to being successful.

Investing in certifications and professional development classes, attending trade shows and conferences, and taking part in continuing education classes are all great ways to stay ahead and capable in this field. having the right tools and equipment on hand, as well as a good understanding of customer service and communication skills, can also help ensure success as an HVAC Repair Technician.

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Job Description

Diagnose and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to ensure proper operation.
Inspect, maintain, and repair HVAC equipment, components, and systems.
Perform preventive maintenance on HVAC systems to ensure optimal operation.
Troubleshoot HVAC systems to identify and resolve issues.
Replace worn or broken parts in HVAC systems such as filters, thermostats, motors, and belts.
Install new HVAC systems and components according to manufacturers instructions and local codes.
Repair and maintain ductwork and other components of the HVAC system.
Test and adjust HVAC systems to ensure proper operation.
Read and interpret wiring diagrams and schematics to troubleshoot and diagnose system problems.
Monitor HVAC systems to ensure they are running efficiently and safely.
Provide advice on ways to improve energy efficiency of HVAC systems.
Respond to emergency service requests in a timely manner.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of residential HVAC systems and components
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and schematics
Troubleshooting and diagnostic skills
Knowledge of relevant safety protocols
Ability to perform preventive maintenance services
Familiarity with tools and equipment used to repair HVAC systems
Ability to lift heavy equipment and tools
Excellent customer service skills
Ability to use computers to access information
Knowledge of local building codes and regulations

Having a strong knowledge and understanding of HVAC systems is the most important skill for an HVAC Repair Technician. A technician must be able to diagnose and repair air conditioning and heating systems, as well as recognize potential problems with components before they become bigger issues. Furthermore, being able to identify the source of the problem quickly and accurately can prevent costly repairs and make sure that the system is operating safely and efficiently.

In addition, technicians should also be familiar with relevant safety regulations and codes to ensure they are compliant with industry standards. Lastly, having good communication skills is also important, as technicians must be able to explain the problem to their customer in a way that is easy to understand.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with HVAC systems?
What type of HVAC systems have you worked on in the past?
Are you certified to work with HVAC systems?
How would you diagnose a problem with an HVAC system?
What techniques do you use to repair and maintain HVAC systems?
What safety precautions do you take when working with HVAC systems?
What challenges have you faced when repairing HVAC systems?
How do you stay up-to-date on new technologies and techniques for repairing and maintaining HVAC systems?
What sets you apart from other HVAC repair technicians?
Why should we hire you for this position?

Common Tools in Industry

Refrigerant Gauge. Measures the pressure of the refrigerant in an HVAC system (eg: R-22).
Multimeter. Measures electrical current in an HVAC system (eg: voltage and resistance).
Vacuum Pump. Pulls a vacuum within a refrigerant system to remove moisture and air (eg: ACME V-7 Pump).
Wrenches. Used to tighten, loosen and adjust components in an HVAC system (eg: Crescent Wrench).
Screwdrivers. Used to remove and adjust screws in an HVAC system (eg: Phillips-head Screwdriver).
Snips. Used to cut metal and other materials in an HVAC system (eg: Aviation Snips).
Torque Wrench. Used to tighten bolts and nuts to specific torque values (eg: Digital Torque Wrench).
Flaring Tool. Used to flare and ream copper tubing for proper connection to refrigeration components (eg: Parker Flaring Tool).
Drill. Used to drill holes for mounting components in an HVAC system (eg: Cordless Drill).
Insulation Tape. Used to insulate electrical wires in an HVAC system (eg: Polyethylene Tape).

Professional Organizations to Know

Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA)
Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI)
Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA)
North American Technician Excellence (NATE)
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC)
Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES)
International Ground Source Heat Pump Association (IGSHPA)
International Association of Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Distributors (AHRI)
American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
HVAC Excellence

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Common Important Terms

Refrigerant. A chemical compound used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems to help cool air and transfer heat.
Expansion Valve. A device used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems to regulate the flow of refrigerant.
Compressor. A device used to increase the pressure of a refrigerant so that it can be used to cool air or other substances.
Condenser. A device used to convert hot gas into liquid form in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
Evaporator Coil. A device used to absorb heat from the air and transfer it to the refrigerant in air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
Heat Pump. An HVAC device that moves heat from one place to another using a compressor and evaporator coil.
Air Handler. A device used to distribute conditioned air throughout a home or building.
Thermostat. A device used to regulate the temperature in a space by controlling the operation of an HVAC system.
Ductwork. The system of ducts used to distribute air within an HVAC system.
Blower Motor. The motor used to move air through an HVAC systems ductwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary of an HVAC Repair Technician?

The average salary of an HVAC Repair Technician is between $40,000 and $50,000 per year.

What qualifications are required to become an HVAC Repair Technician?

To become an HVAC Repair Technician, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and a certificate or degree in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration technology.

What type of work does an HVAC Repair Technician typically do?

An HVAC Repair Technician typically works on heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems, including installation, repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

What skills are necessary for an HVAC Repair Technician?

An HVAC Repair Technician should have excellent mechanical skills, knowledge of safety procedures, the ability to read and interpret diagrams and schematics, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently or with a team.

What tools do HVAC Repair Technicians use?

Common tools used by HVAC Repair Technicians include screwdrivers, wrenches, pipe cutters, voltmeters, refrigerant gauges, drills, and welding equipment.