HVAC Techs

Additional workers began their share of the renovation project of the two four-plexes next door to my house a few days ago. Among the laborers, was a team of HVAC technicians. They dismantled the eight, old air conditioning compressor units and hauled them away. Two days ago, the techs returned with brand new compressors for the outside and furnace/airconditioner units for the indoors. It took most of two days for the team to install eight new systems and test them.

Besides installing air conditioning units, a few of the HVAC technicians were called away from the job to repair malfunctioning systems in other neighborhoods. One of the techs reminded me that summer is the peak season for service calls about air conditioning and central climate control systems. He takes working in sweltering conditions in stride. He does wish people would schedule regular HVAC system check-ups to proactively prevent surprise, serious repairs and expenses.

He wanted to do this type of work ever since he was a teen. So he took a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning program at the technical school in Omaha. It took less than two years for him to complete his degree in HVAC and refrigeration. He passed exams to assess his competence and knowledge about HVAC systems. (He must comply with certification and licensing requirements for his work.) The young man then worked as a paid apprentice for three years before his present employer hired him as a full-time employee.

I later investigated the Associate’s Degree program for HVAC technicians at our community college. It included classroom and hands-on training about electrical theory and safety, refrigeration, heating technology, and troubleshooting a wide variety of HVAC systems. They must also be familiar with local building codes and regulations along with the latest information about sustainability and energy efficiency.

They are well-deserving of their good paychecks because they have irregular work schedules. They are often “on call” for weekends, evenings, and other emergency calls. Because technology is continually improving, the techs engage in continuing education programs and development to keep up with industry trends.

It should be mentioned that the work can be physically demanding because of heavy lifting, working in confined spaces, climbing ladders, and dealing with harsh weather like extreme cold and heat. It helps to be physically fit and healthy. On the plus-side, there is high demand for competent HVAC techs for industrial and residential service work.

Today is National HVAC Technicians Day in the U.S. This is a reminder to appreciate the hardworking people who help keep our homes and other buildings comfortable. It takes people who are skilled and dedicated to their HVAC careers to keep our heating and air conditioning systems running. They provide an essential service to our communities.

Ciao

The Blue Jay of Happiness likes this anonymous quote: “HVAC technicians are the problem solvers who keep the air flowing and the temperatures just right.”