So, you’re thinking of becoming an HVAC Technician – it’s an excellent industry, and you’ve heard some great things about this skilled trade! However, before you sign up for an HVAC training program, you’re probably looking to learn more about the pros and cons of being an HVAC Technician first?

 Not a problem, we recommend that you do!

 Working on heating ventilation and air conditioning systems as an HVAC Technician can be a thoroughly rewarding and constantly evolving profession. While most HVAC Technicians love their job, it’s essential to be aware of the pros and cons of an HVAC career before committing to the profession.

 For many technicians working in the HVAC field today, the upside of the job far outweighs some of the perceived negative elements. So, we’ve put together a handy shortlist to help you decide.

                                Take the first step on your career journey today!

Pros of being an HVAC Technician

• HVAC Jobs Work in a Variety of Locations

Top of most HVAC Technician’s list has to be the variety of workplace environments. Not only do heating and cooling system needs vary across the United States, but the HVAC requirements may vary based on other factors as well.  Work locations can also include:

• Residential – Homes and garages
• Commercial – Restaurants and factories
• Industrial – Construction sites and manufacturing plants

 The sheer diversity of workplace settings is undoubtedly a positive factor when weighing the pros and cons of being an HVAC Technician.

• Stable jobs / work

Due to the constant evolution of technology and innovation, along with the necessity of heating and cooling equipment in many parts of the country (especially here in Michigan), HVAC technicians may enjoy working in a field that is stable.

• HVAC can’t be outsourced

Compared to other vocations, as HVAC’s manual technical requirements are considered a skilled trade, it means that HVAC jobs will not become automated or outsourced overseas. So, while robots may soon replace many other professions, this is a huge plus considering the pros and cons of being an HVAC Technician.

• A large pool of different HVAC careers to choose from

Another key appealing factor is the sheer volume of roles available to qualified HVAC Technicians. With such a vast range of HVAC systems across the residential, commercial and industrial sectors, HVAC Technicians have the opportunity to work on:

• Installation, repair, and servicing of air conditioning and heating systems
• Fitting heat ducts, furnace, and ventilation systems
• Replacing and maintaining food and perishable goods refrigeration systems

• Not sitting in the office all-day

It’s true, not everyone enjoys spending a lot of time stuck behind a desk. Sure, there will be times when an HVAC Technician needs to squeeze into a tight crawl space. However, most technicians enjoy the variety of roles and different workplace environments.

• A job you can take with you

The United States has such a diverse range of climatic environments, so the opportunities to focus on different niche cooling and heating systems are present.

Residential, industrial, and commercial air conditioning units will always be in high demand in the southern states. Northern states also have a standard requirement for installing and repairing essential heating systems, particularly during the winter.  So, if Michigan isn’t your final destination, training to become an HVAC technician is a career you can take with you elsewhere.

Cons of being an HVAC Technician

• Occasionally long working hours

One of the more notable requirements when looking at the pros and cons of being an HVAC Technician is that some HVAC jobs involve longer working hours. Working with heating and cooling systems could include longer working days than in other career fields.

 With the on-call nature of some HVAC requirements, technicians may also be called out for after-hours emergency repairs or installations. Unfortunately, this means technicians may be called out at unsociable hours at night or at weekends.

 There are benefits to this, as often these call-outs can command additional overtime pay. However, HVAC technicians who prefer to avoid on-call roles can find opportunities in the construction industry, usually offering more regular 9 to 5 hours.

• HVAC Technician Potential Safety Hazards

Another possible downside in the pros and cons of being an HVAC Technician is the potential safety hazards, which entry level recruits in the HVAC field may not be aware of, including:

• Heavy lifting
• Working at height or on rooftops
• Operating in confined areas – like an attic or crawl space

As you pursue your training, it is important to ensure there is a component regarding safety included in your program.

• Continued Learning with Technology Innovation

For a successful HVAC Technician career, it is vital to keep up to speed with evolving technology and HVAC systems upgrades. This often calls for technicians to attend a new system training program every now and then to ensure their knowledge is up to date.

 While HVAC product innovation may appear negative when considering the pros and cons of being an HVAC Technician, it’s ultimately also the primary reason why HVAC Technicians will always be required.

• Some Jobs May be Physically Demanding

You need to factor in that a lot of time is spent on your feet in the role of an HVAC Technician. Some days the physical demands can include an entire shift of heavy lifting or constantly being on the move.

 However, many HVAC Technicians consider this a positive component of the job. It can keep the fitness levels high and be far more entertaining than being stuck behind a desk all day.

• HVAC Technicians May Be On-Call

Depending on which HVAC field you decide to join, there will be requirements to be on-call. These can sometimes include working:

• Evenings
• Weekends
• Public Holidays

But it is not all bad news. For example, if an HVAC Technician opts for an on-call position, they often benefit from increased overtime pay, which many technicians see as a benefit.

HVAC technician training at Dorsey College 

Now that you better understand the pros and cons of being an HVAC Technician; you can see that even some of the cons of an HVAC career have positive upsides.

 If you are looking for an HVAC training program our team here at Dorsey College can help!  Our HVAC Systems Technician training program has been created to help you succeed in becoming a qualified HVAC Technician. Here we provide a solid understanding of the different requirements needed when out in the field, including working with:

• Residential and commercial cooling and heating systems
• Electricity concepts, theories, and safety practices
• Refrigeration 
• HVAC problem solving and troubleshooting

 With the right HVAC training program you could set yourself up on a fantastic career path, starting with entry level HVAC roles in the field you excel most at. Here at Dorsey College, we’re here to help you stand out from the crowd with solid HVAC qualifications that employers really value.