According to bureau of labor statistics, The average HVAC technician salary in the United States is
$58,500 Per Year
The average salary in the USA for
‣ HVAC Manager $68,100 per year.
‣ senior HVAC technician $59,600 per year.
‣ Entry Level HVAC technician $52,000 per year.
The average hvac technicians salary in the USA is $58,500 per year or $28.13 per hour. The exact salary of an AC technician is depend upon many factors like your experience, education, and location.For more details read complete article.
Breakdown of the average hvac salary by experience level are as follows
‣ Entry level: $35,000 to $45,000
‣ Mid level: $45,000 to $60,000
‣ Senior level: $60,000 to $80,000
Table of contents
- HVAC technician salary by state, experience, level
- How to improve your chances of getting a better HVAC salary
- How experience affects HVAC salaries
- HVAC technician education & training requirements + costs
- What is HVAC
- HVAC technician career paths
- What is hvac technician
- How to become an HVAC technician
HVAC technician salary by state
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Following a list of hvac installer salaries by state in the U.S. ia given for your information.
| State | Average HVAC Technician Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $51,100 |
| Alaska | $61,390 |
| Arizona | $58,040 |
| Arkansas | $49,230 |
| California | $63,180 |
| Colorado | $57,860 |
| Connecticut | $56,390 |
| Delaware | $54,160 |
| Florida | $57,510 |
| Georgia | $53,330 |
| Hawaii | $66,000 |
| Idaho | $53,290 |
| Illinois | $56,450 |
| Indiana | $54,390 |
| Iowa | $52,710 |
| Kansas | $53,530 |
| Kentucky | $51,920 |
| Louisiana | $51,540 |
| Maine | $52,300 |
| Maryland | $55,880 |
| Massachusetts | $57,660 |
| Michigan | $55,330 |
| Minnesota | $54,770 |
| Mississippi | $49,560 |
| Missouri | $53,080 |
| Montana | $54,320 |
| Nebraska | $52,510 |
| Nevada | $59,720 |
| New Hampshire | $54,060 |
| New Jersey | $54,530 |
| New Mexico | $52,980 |
| New York | $59,530 |
| North Carolina | $54,100 |
| North Dakota | $51,760 |
| Ohio | $55,980 |
| Oklahoma | $52,560 |
| Oregon | $56,770 |
| Pennsylvania | $56,930 |
| Rhode Island | $55,250 |
| South Carolina | $52,050 |
| South Dakota | $51,200 |
| Tennessee | $52,800 |
| Texas | $60,210 |
| Utah | $56,500 |
| Vermont | $53,210 |
| Virginia | $56,160 |
| Washington | $58,360 |
| West Virginia | $49,830 |
| Wisconsin | $55,000 |
| Wyoming | $54,420 |
how much do hvac techs make? As shown in above table, The average salary of an air conditioning technician in the United States is about $55,026. However, the level of payment may be significantly different from one state to another. For instance, refrigeration technician in Alaska are paid an average of $61,390 per year compared to $55,880 for workers in Maryland.
The hvac average salary may be affected by these factors:
1. Experience: higher salaries are generally earned by more experienced heating, ventilation and air conditioning technicians.
2. Location: In some states, heating, ventilation and air conditioning technicians are paid more than in other states.
3. Certifications: higher wages may be paid to heating, ventilating and air conditioning technicians with certification.
4. Company size: HVAC techs who work for large enterprises may also earn higher salaries than those employed by smaller companies.
HVAC technician salary by years of experience
Following table shows average HVAC technician salary by years of experience
| Years of Experience | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 0-5 years | $22 | $45,760 |
| 6-9 years | $27 | $57,512r |
| 10+ years | $32 | $68,286 |
HVAC technician salary by level
Following table shows average HVAC technician salary by level
| Level | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $20-25 | $40,000-50,000 |
| Mid-Level | $25-30 | $50,000-60,000 |
| Senior Level | $30-35 | $60,000-70,000 |
| Management Level | $35-40 | $70,000-80,000 |
HVAC technician salary by top paying companies
Following table shows average HVAC technician salary by highest paying companies
| Company | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Johnson Controls | $65,000 per year |
| Trane Technologies | $63,000 per year |
| Carrier Corporation | $62,000 per year |
| Rheem Manufacturing Company | $61,000 per year |
| Daikin Industries | $60,000 per year |
| Lennox International | $59,000 per year |
| Honeywell International | $58,000 per year |
| Robert Bosch | $57,000 per year |
If you are interested in becoming an HVAC technician, it is important to research the salaries in your area so that you can set realistic expectations. You can also consider getting certified to increase your earning potential.
Please note that these are only average pay, depending on your experience and place of residence, you may be paid differently.
HVAC Installer Vs Technician Salary
Following table shows the salary difference between HVAC installers and technicians.
| Job Title | Average Hourly Wage | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC Installer | $27.36 | $56,904 |
| HVAC Technician | $31.69 | $67,520 |
Average HVAC Salary
Following table shows HVAC salary per year for various posts.
| Post | Salary per year |
|---|---|
| HVAC technician salary | $67,520 |
| HVAC installer salary | $56,904 |
| HVAC journeyman salary | $51,517 |
| AC technician salary | $49,000 |
| Refrigeration technician salary | $58,500 |
| HVAC service technician salary | $49,000 |
| Master HVAC salary | $74,100 |
| Commercial HVAC salary | $43,904 |
| Union HVAC salary | $49,086 |
| HVAC mechanic salary | $47,418 |
| HVAC controls technician salary | $54,824 |
| HVAC contractor salary | $81,864 |
| Commercial HVAC technician salary | $58,765 |
| Entry level HVAC salary | $52,000 |
| HVAC repair salary | $49,000 |
| AC repair salary | $49,000 |
| HVAC certification salary | $54200 |
| HVAC entry level salary | $52,000 |
| Industrial HVAC salary | $49,208 |
| HVAC service tech salary | $49,000 |
| HVAC repairman salary | $49,000 |
| HVAC manager salary | $77,048 |
| HVAC trade salary | $44,450 |
| Air conditioner repairman salary | $49,000 |
| HVAC electrician salary | $53,600 |
| HVAC maintenance technician salary | $55,340 |
| HVAC helper salary | $51,492 |
| HVAC plumbing salary | $54200 |
How to improve your chances of getting a better HVAC salary
To improve your chances of getting a higher salary in the HVAC industry, follow these tips:
1. Get certified - Show employers that you have the skills, knowledge and HVAC certifications necessary to do this job. There are many different HVAC certifications available now. Get certifications that suit your education or most relevant to your career goals.
2. Gain experience. You'll be able to negotiate more pay with your experience as HVAC technician. You can also get benefit from experience by working as volunteer or working part time.
3. Become a master HVAC technician. Master technicians are always in demand because of high skills and experience and can earn good money.
4. High paying areas - The average HVAC salary varies depending on locations. You can get higher packages if you are ready to relocate to a higher paying area.
5. Be a valuable asset : If your employer considers you to be of any value, they are more likely to pay you a higher salary. This requires reliability, efficiency and a willingness to go all the way in your work.
6. Networking with other HVAC professionals. Networking is best way for you to find job opportunities and let your name get out there. Make a strong network on LinkedIn and find out about industry events, join professional organizations and get to know people in HVAC industry.
7. Stay up to date with the latest trends : The HVAC equipment industry is continuously evolving; therefore it is necessary to keep an eye on the latest trends. This will make you more desirable to your employers and it may even lead to a higher salary.
How experience affects HVAC salaries
AC technician salary typically increase with experience. Entry-level HVAC technicians with less than 5 years of experience typically earn an average of $45,760 per year. Senior HVAC technicians with 6 to 9 years experience can earn an average of $57,512 per year. HVAC technicians with at least 10 years of in hand experience can earn an average of $68,286 per year. There are a few reasons why in hand experience affects HVAC salaries. Different skills and knowledge related to HVAC can be gained with on field experiance. More experienced hvacr technicians are typically more efficient in their work. They have a better understanding of procedures for completing a task, which allows them to work more quickly and efficiently resulting in saving time and money, which can lead to higher salaries.
In addition, HVAC service technician with more experience will be promoted to management positions and can earn higher salary than a technician's. There are more factors that can influence HVAC employee salaries, for example location, business size or specific technical skills. Out of those main factors which are taken into account by employers in determining wages for HVAC engineers, technicians is experience. You need to take as many of your experiences as possible when deciding upon a career in HVAC systems. You're going to be able to earn more money nd get your career off on the right path.
HVAC technician education & training requirements + costs
The education and training requirements to hired as hvac specialist vary depending on the level of certification or license you need.
1. High school diploma or equivalent: Most employers in US require high school diploma or equivalent to appoint as hvac technician.
2. HVAC certification: There are multiple HVAC certification programs available in US, like National Refrigeration Technician Exam (NATE), HVAC Excellence (HVAC-E) program. For more details about programs and schools you can check out hvac schools here.
3. HVAC license: Some states in US needs license to do work as HVAC technicians. The requirements for licensing are different in every state.
4. HVAC apprenticeship and experience: To get entry level job in hvac industry you need skills and deep knowledge. For this you can do apprenticeship for 1-2 years include classroom instruction with on-the-job training.
HVAC education and training cost vary depending on the program you want to join.
1. Associate's degree: can cost around $20,000 to $40,000.
2. Certificate program: can cost around $5,000 to $10,000.
3. Apprenticeship: cost of an apprenticeship depending on the employer.
What is HVAC
HVAC is a system of heating, ventilation and air conditioning. It refers to technologies and systems used in indoor environments like homes, offices or commercial buildings, for the purpose of controlling and regulating temperature, humidity and provide improved air quality. HVAC systems are intended for comfort and healthy working or living conditions by maintaining right temperature and humidity levels as well as ensure an adequate air circulation and filtration. An HVAC system consists of a number of components that work together in order to provide heat, cooling, ventilation as well as control indoor air quality. Following are the main elements typically found in air conditioning systems:
1. Thermostat: The thermostat controls the temperature of HVAC system and allow users to set desired temperature. It senses the temperature and sends signals that can be activated as needed to warmer or cooler. It is installed inside your home.
2. Furnace or Heat Pump - The furnace or heat pump is responsible for the generation of heat in hvac systems. The furnace uses fuel like gas or oil, to generate heat. while the heat pump extracts heat from the air or ground and transfers it to the inside home.
3. Air conditioner: The air conditioning device cools your house by removing heat and humidity from inside and transferring it outside. It uses a refrigeration cycle for this process.
4. Evaporator coils: An evaporator coil is a heat exchanger acts as an absorbing agent for indoor air temperature and allows heat to be transferred to a refrigerant in cooling process. It placed in the inner part of the HVAC system.
5. Condensing Unit: An outdoor component of HVAC system is a condensing unit. It has compressor, air conditioning coil and fan. Compressor pressurizes the refrigerant and condenser coil absorbs heat from indoor air and releases that heat to outdoor air.
6. Air Handling Unit : Air Handling Unit circulates, distributes conditioned air in all rooms of a house.To removes dust from air it has a blower fan that pushes air through hvac system and filters air.
7. Ducting: There is a network of pipes or ducts , which carry and distribute air from units to different parts of the building. It will also allow air to be carried back into the air processing unit for reconditioning.
8. Air Filters: Air filters are fitted within air handling unit To keep the air quality inside as good as possible, air filters are important because they remove dust, allergens and other particles. to maximise their efficiency, needs to be cleaned and replaced periodically.
It may include some additional components like vents, exhaust fans, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, zoning controls, duct dampers, and energy recovery ventilators, etc.
What is hvac technician
A professional who specializes in the installation, maintenance and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration equipment is known as an HVACR technician. The heating, ventilation and air conditioning technicians work on a variety of equipment such as furnaces, ACs, heat pumps, boilers, refrigeration systems.
What does an HVAC technician do?
The job description of an heating technicians as follows:
1. Installation and configuration of heating, cooling systems: Installation and connection of an air conditioning unit, a ductwork or related HVAC component shall take place in accordance with design specifications and building codes.
2. Routine maintenance: In order to keep the HVAC systems functioning properly and safely, HVAC technicians carry out regular inspections, cleanings and maintenance activities. This includes acitivites like replacing filters, lubricating moving parts, checking electrical connections, and testing system performance.
3. Diagnosis and repair of malfunctions: If HVAC system encounters problems or malfunctions, technicians will diagnose the problem, identify the malfunctioning parts and make the necessary repairs or replacements.Then take a test of system.
4. Upgrading systems: air conditioning technician can upgrade outdated equipment or modify system for improved energy efficiency and to meet the evolving needs of customers.
5. Providing customer service: HVAC technician is often in direct contact with his or her clients by addressing their concerns, explaining the procedure of repairs as well as recommending an improvement or replacement system.
How to become an HVAC technician
You will have to go through the following steps in order to be an hvac service technician:
1. To receive a diploma or an equivalent: The main requirement of entering this industry usually be a degree in secondary education. Make sure you've good understanding in math, physics and mechanical principles will aid you in your future career.
2. Acquire relevant knowledge and skills: You can enroll in vocational courses, trade school or college programs that offers HVAC training. These programs will provide you with essential knowledge and hands on experience in this area.
3. Complete an HVAC certification or apprenticeship program: Employers are more interested in hiring experienced and certified HVAC technicians.So look for accredited training programs in HVAC field or complete apprenticeships from a reputed company. These courses generally consist of classroom instruction and on job training, which gives you practical experience while being taught by experienced professionals.
4. Acquiring the required licenses: If you want to be employed as an HVAC engineer in your state or country, verify that it is need to acquire a specific license. In all States, Section 608 Technician Certification is required to work with the refrigerants by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
5. Practical experience: To get practical experience in the field of HVAC systems, you must seek entry level positions or apprenticeships. You can develop your skills as a technician by working with experienced technicians and become expert in installing, repairing and maintaining hvac equipment.
6. Driver's licence: HVAC technicians need to set up or repair their systems, it is very common that they have to go different locations everyday. The work requires the mostly an active driving license holder for this job.
HVAC technician career paths
There are various paths to professional growth and specialization in a career as HVAC technician. Some career paths in the sector of HVAC are as follows :
1. Residential HVAC Technician: The HVAC systems of homes and small buildings, shops are installed, maintained and repaired by residential HVAC technicians. They can be working for HVAC equipment manufacturers, contractors or on their own.
2. Commercial HVAC technician: larger heating and cooling systems found in commercial buildings such as office complexes, hospitals, shopping malls or industrial facilities are installed, maintained, operated by commercial hvac profession. They provide services in the field of large air conditioning equipments like rooftop units, heat pumps and cooling towers.
3. Refrigeration technician: The refrigeration technicians are specialised in the installation, maintenance and repair of refrigeration systems. They're working with big commercial refrigerators, walk in cooler units, freezers and refrigeration equipment. To become a refrigeration technician, a higher level of training, certification and essential HVAC knowledge is required.
4. HVAC Technician: The controls technicians focus on HVAC equipment automation and control systems. In order to ensure maximum performance and energy efficiency, they install, program, and repair building automation systems (BAS) and control panels.
5. Energy auditor: energy auditors are appointed for the purpose of evaluating energy consumption and efficiency of HVAC systems in homes and commercial facilities. They are expert conducting inspections, identifying possible energy savings opportunities and making recommendations for overall improvement of energy efficiency.
6. Sales Representatives: Communication and negotiation skills are essential for this post.Mostly HVAC manufacturers and suppliers appoints sales representatives that expert in the sale of HVAC system components and related products for different commercial operators or end users.
7. HVAC Project Manager: Large cooling and heating installation or repair projects are managed by a project manager. Duty of HVAC Project Manager to ensure that the projects are successfully completed, manage budget and timelines as well as compliance with gov regulations. Manager has to coordinate their activities with clients, contractors and technicians.
8. HVAC Design Engineer: The design engineer is responsible for the planning and design of HVAC systems in buildings. The computer aided design software is used to create a system layout, equipment designs and calculate load requirements.
9. HVAC Instructor or Trainer: Experienced hvac controls technician can be work as teacher in vocational schools, colleges, or training centers and sharing their knowledge and expertise with aspiring technicians.