Heating and Cooling System Mechanics

Career summary

Heating and cooling system mechanics may also be called refrigeration mechanics or HVAC mechanics. They may specialize in one type of equipment and be referred to as furnace installers, oil burner mechanics, or gas burner mechanics.

#linked to 3146 heating/cooling system mechanics

Heating system mechanics install oil, gas, electric, and other systems. They may install dehumidifiers, heat pumps, air filters, or ventilators. They read blueprints and manufacturers' directions. They cut or drill holes in floors, walls, and roofs for air ducts. They may assemble the ductwork. Mechanics install fuel and water lines, pumps, ducts, and vents. They connect the electrical wiring and controls. They check the unit for proper operation.

Heating system mechanics also maintain and repair these systems. They clean and oil parts, replace filters, and clean vents and ducts that have collected dust. If the system is not operating properly, mechanics check thermostats, nozzles, and controls to diagnose the problem.

Mechanics may install new controls to reduce energy use. In large buildings, they may install controls to control temperature in specific areas.

Cooling system mechanics install air-conditioning and refrigeration units. To set up these systems, mechanics install motors, compressors, piping, and many other components. They connect the equipment to the ductwork, refrigerant lines, and electrical source. They charge the system with refrigerant and check its operation. Mechanics also set or program the controls.

When cooling systems break down, mechanics diagnose the problem and make repairs. They test parts such as compressors, relays, and thermostats. They also talk to owners and users to understand any issues.

Mechanics must follow government regulations when working with refrigerants. They must conserve the refrigerant by plugging any leaks in the system. If they take out the old refrigerant, mechanics must contain it. They replace it with new non-toxic refrigerant.

Heating and cooling system mechanics use a variety of tools, such as:

• Hand and power tools
• Pipe cutters and benders
• Torches
• Voltmeters
• Pressure gauges

Heating and cooling system mechanics keep records of the repairs and replacements they make.

Some mechanics work in pairs or teams. They may assist another mechanic or work as a supervisor.

Related careers

This career is part of the Architecture and Construction cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Automobile Mechanics
• Building Maintenance Workers
• Electricians
• Elevator Installers and Repairers
• Energy Auditors
• Geothermal Technicians
• Industrial Electronics Repairers
• Industrial Machinery Mechanics
• Plumbers and Pipefitters
• Sheet Metal Workers
• Weatherization Installers and Technicians

Military careers

• Heating and Cooling Mechanics

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to heating and cooling system mechanics.

• Read blueprints, specifications, and manufacturers' instructions.
• Talk with owners to find out about problems and discuss recommended changes.
• Install systems to heat, cool, filter, purify, or dry out the air in homes or businesses.
• Install fuel and supply lines and pumps.
• Cut or drill holes, fabricate ductwork, and install ducts.
• Connect wiring and controls and check system operation.
• Service and adjust burners and blowers during routine service. Clean and oil parts. Replace filters and clean vents and ducts.
• Check thermostats, nozzles, and controls when system does not work properly. Replace older controls with new controls to use less electricity.
• Install heat pump, and air conditioning and refrigeration equipment.
• Connect equipment to ductwork, refrigerant lines, and electrical power sources.
• Charge system with refrigerant and check for proper operation.
• Install or program controls to provide more control over smaller areas in large buildings.
• Diagnose problems by testing parts such as compressors, relays, and thermostats.
• Inspect, test, repair, and maintain equipment.
• Save, recover, and recycle refrigerants when working on older cooling system. Use non-toxic refrigerants.
• Use a variety of hand and power tools, welding equipment, and meters and gauges.
• Keep records of repairs and replacements.

Common work activities

Heating and cooling system mechanics perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Get information needed to do the job
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Handle and move objects
• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Control machines and processes
• Schedule work and activities
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Repair and maintain electronic equipment
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Process information
• Document and record information
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Evaluate information against standards
• Teach others
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Perform for or work with the public
• Analyze data or information
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Guide, direct, and motivate others
• Think creatively
• Coach others
• Provide information or drawings about devices, equipment, or structures
• Resolve conflicts and negotiate with others
• Develop goals and strategies
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Use computers
• Develop and build teams
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Perform administrative tasks
• Convince others to buy goods or change their minds or actions
• Provide advice and consultation to others

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, heating and cooling system mechanics:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a medium level of social contact. They speak with coworkers and customers, but also spend time working alone.
• Communicate by telephone and in person on a daily basis. They communicate less often by letters and memos.
• Are responsible for the health and safety of others. Repairs must be complete to prevent accidents from faulty furnaces, for example.
• May work as part of a team. May work near others, usually within a few feet.

Physical work conditions

• Work both indoors and outdoors. Air conditioning units are often located outside, while furnaces are usually located indoors.
• Work in an enclosed vehicle. They regularly travel in a van to and from work sites.
• Frequently wear protective clothes and glasses when handling refrigerants.
• May be exposed to temperatures that are uncomfortable. For example, they work outside or in buildings where heating or air conditioning units are broken.
• Are exposed to contaminants on a weekly basis. Broken air conditioning or heating units may emit chemical fumes, for example.
• Are often exposed to hazardous situations and equipment. As a result, they may experience minor cuts or burns.
• Sometimes have to get into awkward positions to reach cramped work spaces.
• Are sometimes exposed to high places.
• Are often exposed to extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions.
• May be exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable.

Work performance

• Must be exact in their work. Errors could cause injury or property damage.
• Constantly make decisions that affect their employer's reputation. In many cases, companies rely on word-of-mouth advertising to attract new clients.
• Regularly make decisions that affect others. They rarely consult a supervisor before deciding a course of action.
• Repeat the same physical activities daily.
• Set nearly all tasks and goals for the day without consulting a supervisor.
• Work under moderate job pressures. They must abide by strict weekly deadlines.

Hours/travel

• Usually work 40 hours per week or more.
• Generally work a set schedule. However, they often work overtime or irregular hours during peak seasons.

Physical demands

Heating and cooling system mechanics frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Stand for long periods of time.
• Bend or twist their body.
• Kneel, stoop, crouch, or crawl.
• Walk or run for long periods of time.
• Climb ladders, scaffolds, or poles.

It is important for heating and cooling system mechanics to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for heating and cooling system mechanics to be able to:

• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Move arms and legs quickly.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Determine from which direction a sound came.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• See objects in very bright or glaring light.
• See objects in very low light.
• While looking forward, see objects or movements that are off to the side.

Skills and abilities

Heating and cooling system mechanics need to:

Communicate

• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Understand spoken information.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Understand written information.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.

Reason and problem solve

• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Make sense of information that seems without meaning or organization.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Recognize when important changes happen or are likely to happen in a system.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with people

• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.
• Be aware of others' reactions and understand the possible causes.

Work with things

• Determine the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.
• Maintain equipment on a routine basis. Determine when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
• Repair machines or systems.
• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Install equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.
• Operate and control equipment.
• Determine the tools and equipment needed to do a job.

Perceive and visualize

• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.
• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Apprenticeship Programs
• Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology

Other programs of study to consider

• Plumbing and Water Supply

Training

To work as a heating and cooling system mechanic, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete a formal training program; and
• complete long-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Many heating and cooling system mechanics complete a formal training program in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology. Professional-technical schools or two-year colleges offer these programs. They grant a certificate or associate degree. In these programs you learn to read schematic drawings, analyze problems, and follow safety procedures. You also learn to determine whether to replace or repair parts.

On-the-job training

After completing a formal training program, most heating and cooling system mechanics learn additional skills on the job from an experienced worker. You begin as a helper and do basic tasks. As you gain experience you work on more difficult tasks. Training includes:

• using equipment and tools;
• making repairs; and
• providing customer service.

Training may last several years.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be heating and cooling mechanics. Training lasts for eight to 22 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.

If you receive this type of training in the military, you may earn credit for previous work experience when you enter a civilian apprenticeship program.

Washington apprenticeships

Heating and cooling system mechanics' apprenticeships fall under plumbers, steamfitters, pipefitters, and refrigeration fitters apprenticeship programs. These programs require 4,000 to 10,000 hours of on-the-job training as well as additional classroom time. Some programs schedule classroom time in the evening. Entry requirements include:

• being 18 years of age or older;
• a high school diploma or equivalent;
• completing applicable trade assessment test;
• ability to perform the manual labor of the trade;
• having a valid Washington State Driver's license; and
• completing drug screening test.

Apprentices also may need to be a resident of the county for one year.

For further information on apprenticeships in Washington, contact:

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
Apprenticeship Program 
PO Box 44530
Olympia, WA 98504-4530
360.902.5320

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Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements . You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate. You should consider taking Algebra and Geometry as your math courses and Chemistry and Physics as your science courses.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Appliance Repair
• Blueprint Reading
• Construction
• Electronics
• Equipment Maintenance and Repair
• Sheet Metal

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Employers prefer to hire mechanics who attended technical school. This is because of the increasing complexity of heating and cooling systems. Employers also prefer to hire cooling system mechanics who are certified to handle refrigerants.

Employers prefer applicants with good electrical and communication skills, a good driving record, and the ability to be insured at a reasonable cost.

Tips

Computer technology is used to control heating and cooling systems. Any related knowledge or experience will be useful, as well as any knowledge or experience in solar technology. Keep up with changes in the field through classes and trade publications. Learn as much as you can about the basics: theory, hands-on lab activities, and communications skills by attending a trade school. Become a student member of a trade association. Talk with employers and people who work in the field. Get as much training related to the electrical aspects of heating and cooling systems as possible. A mechanical aptitude is important.

Costs to workers

Some workers may be required to supply their own tools, uniforms and footwear. They also may be required to join a union and pay an initiation fee and dues.

Licensing/certification

In all states, mechanics who purchase or work with refrigerants or substitute refrigerants must be certified. In this case, certification indicates that mechanics know how to handle refrigerants properly. To become certified to purchase and handle refrigerants, mechanics must pass a written exam. Exams are administered by organizations approved by the EPA, such as trade schools, unions, and employer associations. For additional information about certification, contact:

Environmental Protection Agency 

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Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Heating and Air Conditioning Mechanics and Installers 
• Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Wages vary depending on the employer and the area of the country.

Most heating and cooling system mechanics receive benefits. These include paid vacation, sick leave, and health insurance. Some employers also pay for work-related training and provide uniforms, company vans, and tools. 

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Building equipment contractors
• Heating and cooling system retailers and wholesalers
• Heating and cooling system repairers

National outlook

Demand will be strong for this occupation as the construction industry continues to grow. Climate-controlled systems also create demand for qualified HVAC mechanics. Most systems need to be upgraded every ten-15 years. Increasing emphasis on energy efficiency will also increase the demand for HVAC mechanics to replace and repair systems.

Job prospects will be best for those with apprenticeship training or technical training in electronics.

Other resources

Air Conditioning Contractors of America 
2800 Shirlington Road, Suite 300
Arlington, VA 22206
703.575.4477

Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute 
2311 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 400
Arlington, VA 22201
703.524.8800

American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers 
1791 Tullie Circle NE
Atlanta, GA 30329
800.527.4723

Building Performance Institute 
(Training and certification information)

International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials 
4755 East Philadelphia Street
Ontario, CA 91761
909.472.4100

National Renewable Energy Laboratory 
901 D Street SW, Suite 930
Washington, DC 20024
202.488.2200

Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association 
180 South Washington Street, Suite 100
Falls Church, VA 22046
800.533.7694
703.237.8100

Refrigeration Service Engineers Society 
1911 Rohlwing Road, Suite A
Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
800.297.5660
847.297.6464

Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association 
4201 Lafayette Center Drive
Chantilly, VA 20151
703.803.2980

United Association of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders, and HVAC Service Techs 
Three Park Place
Annapolis, MD 21401
410.269.2000

US Small Business Administration 
Seattle District Office
2401 Fourth Avenue, Suite 450
Seattle, WA 98121
206.553.7310

References

Career cluster

• Architecture and Construction

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupations

• Heating and Air Conditioning Mechanics and Installers (49-9021.01) 
• Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (49-9021.02) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

DOT occupations

• Air and Hydronic Balancing Technician (637.261-034) 
• Evaporative-cooler Installer (637.381-010) 
• Furnace Installer (862.361-010) 
• Furnace Installer-and-repairer, Hot Air (869.281-010) 
• Heating-and-air-conditioning Installer-servicer (637.261-014) 
• Oil-burner-servicer-and-installer (862.281-018) 
• Refrigeration Mechanic (827.361-014) 
• Refrigeration Mechanic (637.261-026) 
• Refrigeration Unit Repairer (637.381-014) 
• Solar-energy-system Installer (637.261-030) 

Holland occupational clusters

• Realistic/Conventional/Enterprising
• Realistic/Conventional/Investigative
• Realistic/Enterprising/Conventional
• Realistic/Investigative/Conventional

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled