What Is an HVAC Systems Specialist?
In construction, HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air condition. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that demand for HVAC systems specialists will increase by 28 percent through 2018, resulting in 86,600 new jobs in the field, due in large part to increases in the amount of new construction and anticipated repairs required on units placed within buildings 10 to 15 years ago.
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Function
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HVAC systems specialists install, maintain and repair furnaces, fans, duct work, air-conditioning systems, and refrigeration systems for commercial businesses. HVAC systems specialists install and repair oil, gas or electric fuel lines to power heating and cooling appliances. Specialists use a number of tools like hammers, wrenches, drills, pipe cutters and acetylene torches.
Types
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Some HVAC systems specialists work on residences or homes, while others specialize in commercial buildings like stores, offices or institutions such as hospitals and universities. Industrial HVAC systems specialists perform work for heavy industry facilities like power plants or factories.
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Education
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Some HVAC systems specialists hold six-month or one-year certificates from training programs at vocational-technical schools, while others hold two-year associates degrees from community, junior or technical colleges. After or in lieu of formal education programs, some specialists complete three to five year apprenticeships sponsored by organizations like the Air-Conditioning Contractors of America or labor unions.
Licensure
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Some states require HVAC systems specialists to obtain a license before performing their work independently. Although some states have experience or training requirements for licensing, a common factor of all licensing programs is a written examination.
Compensation
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As of December 2009, HVAC systems specialists averaged annual salaries of $43,000, according to Indeed.com.
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