HVAC Technician Careers & Salary Information
HVAC techs install and service heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Demand spikes in summer and winter, and skilled techs can earn solid overtime pay.
National Salary Overview
HVAC Technician Specialties
HVAC Technicians can specialize in different areas, each with its own pay scale and career path.
Residential HVAC Technician
Installs and services heating and cooling systems in homes. High demand during peak seasons and plenty of service call work.
Commercial HVAC Technician
Works on larger HVAC systems in commercial buildings, including rooftop units, chillers, and VAV systems. Better pay than residential with more technical complexity.
Refrigeration Technician
Services commercial refrigeration systems for grocery stores, restaurants, and cold storage facilities. Specialized knowledge of refrigerants and rack systems pays well.
HVAC Controls Technician
Programs and maintains building automation systems that control HVAC equipment. Combines mechanical knowledge with IT skills for above-average pay.
Chiller Technician
Specializes in large chilled water systems for hospitals, data centers, and campus cooling plants. One of the highest-paid HVAC specialties.
Building Automation Specialist
Designs and manages integrated building management systems that control HVAC, lighting, and energy use. Growing demand as buildings get smarter.
Explore HVAC Technician Topics
HVAC Technician Salary by State
Click any state to see detailed salary data, top-paying cities, and union vs. non-union breakdowns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
HVAC Technician salaries in the United States vary based on experience, certifications, and whether you work union or non-union. Entry-level hvac technicians typically earn around 60-70% of the median wage, while experienced professionals and those with master-level credentials can earn 25-50% above the median.
Entry-level hvac technicians in the United States typically start at the lower end of the pay range, which reflects apprentice or helper-level positions. As you gain experience and complete your training program, your pay increases significantly within the first 2-3 years.
Yes. Union hvac technicians earn 15-30% more per hour on average than their non-union counterparts. When you factor in benefits like pensions, healthcare, and annuity contributions, the total compensation gap is even wider. However, union availability varies significantly by region.
The path to becoming a fully qualified hvac technician depends on the route you take. Apprenticeship programs typically last 3-5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trade school programs can be completed in 6-24 months, though you will still need field experience to reach journeyman level.
HVAC Technician work offers solid pay, strong job security, and doesn't require a four-year degree. The national job outlook shows steady demand, and the ongoing skilled labor shortage means qualified hvac technicians have strong bargaining power. The work can be physically demanding, but many professionals find the trade rewarding and well-compensated.
Certifications can significantly boost a hvac technician's earning potential. Industry-recognized credentials, advanced specializations, and safety certifications all help you stand out to employers and command higher hourly rates. Master-level licenses typically result in the biggest pay increases.