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

Feb 24, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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An HVAC system technician is responsible for maintaining and repairing heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. The job of an HVAC system technician can have a major impact on their customer's comfort, safety and energy efficiency. When the HVAC system is not working correctly, it can lead to uncomfortable temperatures, poor air quality, and high energy bills.

As a result, it is important for an HVAC system technician to have the necessary skills and knowledge to diagnose and repair any issues in a timely manner. This includes having knowledge of the different components of the system such as filters, evaporator coils, condenser coils, compressors, air handlers and ductwork. They must also be able to follow the manufacturer's instructions when installing and maintaining the system.

Lastly, they must stay up-to-date on the latest technology in order to diagnose and repair any issues quickly and efficiently.

Steps How to Become

Gain a High School Diploma or GED. Most employers require HVAC technicians to have at least a high school diploma or GED before they can begin working in the field.
Pursue Technical Training. To become certified as an HVAC technician, you will need to complete a technical training program at a trade school or community college. This program should include instruction in the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
Acquire Certification. Once you have completed the necessary training, you can then apply for certification as an HVAC technician. To do this, you will need to pass a written exam and demonstrate your knowledge of the trade.
Obtain an Apprenticeship. Many employers prefer to hire technicians who have some prior experience, so it is a good idea to gain an apprenticeship with an established HVAC contractor. During your apprenticeship, you will have the opportunity to learn from experienced technicians and gain hands-on experience working with HVAC systems.
Join a Professional Association. Becoming a member of a professional organization such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) can help you stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and technologies. Membership in such an organization can also provide networking opportunities and open doors to more advanced career opportunities.

Having the right skills and knowledge is essential for becoming an efficient HVAC System Technician. Investing in proper training and certifications will equip a technician with the knowledge required to work with complex systems. Understanding the fundamentals of HVAC systems, such as understanding the components, how they work together and the principles behind them, is a great way to start.

gaining practical experience in the field, through hands-on training and apprenticeships, can give technicians the experience they need to become proficient. Furthermore, having good interpersonal communication skills is important for a technician to be able to work effectively with clients and other technicians. Lastly, having a good problem-solving attitude can help technicians troubleshoot and diagnose issues quickly and accurately.

With the right combination of skills, knowledge and experience, an HVAC System Technician can become a skilled and efficient worker.

You may want to check HVAC System Engineer, HVAC Design Technician, and HVAC Service Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Install, maintain and repair HVAC systems and components, such as compressors, controls, motors, pumps, and fans.
Diagnose and troubleshoot malfunctioning HVAC systems.
Perform preventative maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating parts, to ensure optimal operation of HVAC systems.
Install and adjust thermostats to maintain desired temperatures.
Inspect duct work for proper installation and functionality.
Test HVAC system performance to ensure optimal energy efficiency.
Repair or replace worn or defective parts.
Adhere to safety protocols when working with hazardous materials.
Keep detailed records of maintenance and repair activities.
Provide advice and technical guidance to customers on the use and maintenance of HVAC systems.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Troubleshooting and diagnosing HVAC systems
Installing and repairing HVAC systems
Reading and interpreting wiring diagrams and technical manuals
Knowledge of HVAC system components and operation
Understanding of applicable building codes
Working safely with hazardous materials and tools
Ability to lift heavy equipment, climb ladders, and crawl in tight spaces
Performing preventive maintenance on HVAC systems
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Communicating effectively with customers, colleagues, and supervisors

Having good technical skills is essential for a successful HVAC system technician. To properly diagnose and troubleshoot complex HVAC systems, technicians must be knowledgeable in the fields of electrical engineering, mechanics, and thermodynamics. They must also possess strong problem-solving skills, be familiar with various tools, and have an understanding of the basic principles of building construction.

Being able to read and interpret blueprints is a key skill for HVAC technicians as it allows them to identify the components of a system and understand how they interact with each other. communication and customer service skills are a must as HVAC technicians must be able to interact effectively with clients and explain their findings in a clear and concise manner. Without these skills, a technician will not be able to adequately perform their job and may struggle to meet customer expectations.

HVAC Refrigeration Technician, HVAC System Installer, and HVAC Field Service Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in installing, repairing and maintaining HVAC systems?
What safety protocols do you follow when working with HVAC systems?
Describe a difficult HVAC system issue you solved.
How do you troubleshoot problems with HVAC systems?
Describe your experience with different types of HVAC systems.
What types of tools and equipment do you use when working on HVAC systems?
How do you ensure that HVAC systems are operating at peak efficiency?
How do you stay up to date on the latest HVAC technologies and industry trends?
How have you handled customer disputes or complaints related to HVAC systems?
Describe a time when you had to work as part of a team to complete a project involving HVAC systems.

Common Tools in Industry

Multimeter. Used to measure electrical current, voltage and resistance. (Example: Measuring a circuits current draw).
Volt-Ohmmeter (VOM). Used to measure voltage, current, and resistance. (Example: Testing a motors electrical output).
Refrigerant Manifold Gauge Set. Used to measure pressure and temperature within an HVAC system. (Example: Checking the pressure within an air conditioning system).
Refrigerant Recovery Machine. Used to recover refrigerant from an HVAC system. (Example: Extracting refrigerant from an air conditioning system before servicing).
Refrigeration System Analyzer. Used to diagnose and troubleshoot problems with an HVAC system. (Example: Locating the source of an HVAC systems performance issues).
Vacuum Pump. Used to create a vacuum environment in HVAC systems. (Example: Removing air and moisture from the lines of an air conditioning system).
Piping Wrenches. Used to tighten and loosen pipes and tubing. (Example: Connecting refrigerant lines).
Soldering Iron. Used to make electrical connections between wires and components. (Example: Connecting wires to an HVAC control board).

Professional Organizations to Know

Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA)
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
Building Performance Institute (BPI)
North American Technician Excellence (NATE)
Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC)
Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA)
Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES)
Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA)
Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc. (AMCA)
Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA)

We also have HVAC Installation Technician, HVAC Project Manager, and HVAC Estimator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

HVAC. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning - A system of machines and components used to regulate air temperature and humidity in a building.
Refrigerant. A chemical compound used in air conditioning systems to transfer heat from one area to another.
Compressor. A device used to compress a gas or liquid, typically used in HVAC systems to move refrigerant through the system.
Condenser. A device used to convert a gas or liquid into a liquid form, typically used to condense refrigerant in the evaporator of an HVAC system.
Evaporator. A device used to absorb heat from the air, typically used in HVAC systems to cool air.
Ductwork. A system of channels and vents used to distribute air throughout a building.
Insulation. Materials used to reduce heat transfer from one area to another, typically used in HVAC systems to reduce energy loss.
Thermostat. A device used to regulate temperature, typically used in HVAC systems to maintain a desired temperature.
Zone Control. A system of valves and dampers used to regulate air flow to different areas of a building, typically used in HVAC systems to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the building.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do HVAC System Technicians do?

HVAC System Technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems in residential and commercial buildings.

What qualifications are needed to become an HVAC System Technician?

To become an HVAC System Technician, you usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as on-the-job training or a postsecondary certificate or associate's degree in an HVAC-related program.

What skills are important for HVAC System Technicians?

HVAC System Technicians must have good manual dexterity and problem-solving skills, be able to work with a variety of tools and equipment, and have good customer service skills.

What tasks do HVAC System Technicians typically perform?

HVAC System Technicians typically inspect and clean HVAC systems, repair or replace defective parts, adjust system controls, test systems for proper functioning, and keep records of maintenance and repairs.

What is the job outlook for HVAC System Technicians?

The job outlook for HVAC System Technicians is positive, with a projected job growth of 8% from 2019 to 2029. This is faster than the average for all occupations.