Learn the answer to the question, ‘Are HVAC jobs in demand?’ and explore career options available for those interested in pursuing a career in this field.
There are many factors that go into choosing a career, but one of the top ones is financial viability. If you’re thinking of entering the HVAC field, it makes sense to find out if there is any demand for people to fill HVAC jobs. Fortunately, there is plenty of demand for HVAC professionals at this time.
What Drives Demand for HVAC Professionals?
Even though existing HVAC systems need maintenance and repairs, the main driver for jobs in this industry is new construction. Almost every house, apartment building, factory, warehouse, or other building needs some kind of HVAC system. Builders typically have the initial system installed during the construction phase to avoid the need for expensive retrofitting later on.
Of course, there is also demand for maintenance and repair technicians. The more buildings an area has, the higher this demand will be.
Where are HVAC Jobs Opening Up the Most?
Thanks to the connection between new construction and HVAC installations, the states with the most construction have the most open HVAC jobs. Not all high-construction states are seeing high population growth. Instead, construction – or reconstruction – can be driven by natural disasters or the need to replace or update old buildings.
Sometimes, a combination of population growth and disasters fuels the need for HVAC professionals. Florida, for example, has seen a large population boom over the last couple of years. It is also regularly hit by hurricanes. These are two strong sources of demand that ensure that HVAC work will be in demand for the foreseeable future.
Which States Have the Highest Demand for HVAC Workers?
With the rise of new construction and a growing number of HVAC systems requiring maintenance, repair, installation, and inspection, the demand for HVAC workers continues to increase. While many states have seen a rise in HVAC job opportunities, some stand out for their higher demand for HVAC professionals.
Top among them are California, Florida, Texas, New York, and Illinois, where the HVAC industry is rapidly growing. In addition to higher demand, these states also offer competitive salaries and benefits to HVAC workers. As demand for skilled HVAC workers continues to rise, it offers a golden opportunity for those interested in pursuing a career in this field, particularly in these top-demand states.
What is it Like to Work in HVAC?
As an HVAC technician, you can find yourself in a variety of environments. Regardless of your specialization, you can be out in extreme weather. In hot states like Florida, this can mean enduring temperatures over 90 degrees. In cold places like New York State, you might be out in subzero conditions. Heavy physical may also be required, especially if you’re doing installations. Because of these factors, you’ll find HVAC work more suited to you if you are physically fit.
Other factors that affect your work experience include your job focus. If you do repairs and maintenance, you might be called to a job at any time. In some cases, you might even be on call. On the other hand, if you do installations, you’ll typically have a steadier schedule – one that often follows the business hours of your clients.
Most who work in HVAC find it enjoyable because they aren’t stuck in an office all day. They also typically go from client to client, so they see new people and new surroundings all the time. Also, HVAC technicians, like other home repair and improvement people, often find that their clients are glad to see them.
How Much Money Can You Make in HVAC?
There are several factors that influence how much money you can make as an HVAC technician. If you’re someone else’s employee, and you’re at the technician level, ZipRecruiter says that you’re looking at an average of just over $50,000 per year. However, if you gain a managerial-level position in the industry, the pay can jump to over $70,000 per year.
Your location will play a huge part in how much money you can make in this field. The state isn’t the only thing to consider here; the specific city or town is also important. You should also keep in mind that some of the areas that pay the most, such as Los Angeles, California, also have the highest costs of living. Meanwhile, an area that doesn’t seem to pay much may also have some of the lowest costs of living.
Finally, it’s fairly easy to start up your own shop as an HVAC professional. Then, you may find that your earnings are nothing like the averages. Your business sense, how much competition you have, the size of your company, and how long you’ve been in business will all factor in. When making plans, keep in mind that it often takes a few years for a new company to be profitable. Make sure to have enough savings to cover this period if you’re planning on going directly to owning your own shop.
So, Are HVAC Jobs in Demand?
Getting started as a technician or other HVAC professional requires gaining the credentials required by your state of operation. Typically, this involves graduating from a program like ATA College’s HVAC Technician Training Program.
ATA College’s program can be completed in as few as 10 months and includes a variety of 3-week courses that impart knowledge and skills needed to become a certified HVAC technician. Both classroom learning and hands-on experience are included.
We’re located in El Cajon, CA, so it’s the perfect school for those who intend to work in this area. To learn more about the HVAC program or the college itself, contact us today.
