What Do HVAC Technicians Do (including Their Typical Day At Work)

Job Description

HVAC Technicians install and repair industrial and commercial refrigerating systems. They also observe and test system operation, using gauges and instruments.

Other tasks include:

• Test lines, components, and connections for leaks.
• Adjust valves according to specifications and charge system with proper type of refrigerant by pumping the specified gas or fluid into the system.
• Adjust or replace worn or defective mechanisms and parts and reassemble repaired systems.
• Braze or solder parts to repair defective joints and leaks.
• Perform mechanical overhauls and refrigerant reclaiming.
• Install expansion and control valves, using acetylene torches and wrenches.

We asked HVAC Technicians how satisfied they are with their job. Here is what they said.

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67% of them said they were satisfied with their job and 52% said they find that their job makes the world a better place or helps to make someone else’s life better.

Typical Day At Work

On a daily basis, HVAC Technicians keep records of repairs and replacements made and causes of malfunctions. They schedule work with customers and initiate work orders, house requisitions, and orders from stock.

A typical day for a Refrigeration Mechanic and Installer will also include:

• Supervise and instruct assistants.
• Adjust or replace worn or defective mechanisms and parts and reassemble repaired systems.
• Observe and test system operation, using gauges and instruments.
• Test lines, components, and connections for leaks.
• Install wiring to connect components to an electric power source.

We asked some HVAC Technicians a few questions to find out what else does their work day look like. Here is what we found.

	Do you have telephone conversations everyday in this job?	60% said yes
	How important is it to work in a team in this job?	46% said very important
	Do you have group discussions everyday in this job?	79% said yes
	Do you talk or work with customers everyday in this job?	45% said yes
	Do you have to deal with angry customers everyday in this job?	16% said yes
	Do you have to make decisions everyday in this job?	61% said yes

Other responsibilities

Besides their typical day, HVAC Technicians also lift and align components into position, using hoist or block and tackle. They may also install expansion and control valves, using acetylene torches and wrenches.

On a weekly to monthly basis, HVAC Technicians Drill holes and install mounting brackets and hangers into floor and walls of building. They might also Adjust valves according to specifications and charge system with proper type of refrigerant by pumping the specified gas or fluid into the system.

In addition, they Braze or solder parts to repair defective joints and leaks.

Although specific duties may vary, many of them Cut, bend, thread, and connect pipe to functional components and water, power, or refrigeration system.

To some HVAC Technicians, it is also their responsibility to Mount compressor, condenser, and other components in specified locations on frames, using hand tools and acetylene welding equipment.

Working life

More than 40 hours per week

Regular schedule like a 9 to 5

In a typical work week as a Refrigeration Mechanic and Installer, you can expect to work more than 40 hours per week.

Is this right for me

People who are suitable for this job tends to like work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They like working with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery..

They also like starting up and carrying out projects. They like leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.

You can read more about these career personality types here.

Explore other careers

http://www.bls.gov/OOH/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm

http://www.acca.org/

http://www.ahrinet.org/

http://www.dol.gov/apprenticeship/