Your HVAC Career Guide: What You’ll Do and Salary Estimate

HVAC helpers are technicians who work alongside more experienced HVAC technicians as they complete the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.

These HVAC helpers are usually just starting out compared to professional HVAC technicians, but they are still an important part of the team at an HVAC company.

What Tasks Do HVAC Helpers Complete?

HVAC helpers often assist with many aspects of key HVAC services, such as:

• Carrying and loading equipment and materials
• Preparing the job site or cleaning up afterwards
• Assisting with the installation, maintenance and repair of HVAC equipment

They may also conduct basic tests and checks on HVAC systems to ensure they are functioning properly.

How Do You Apply to Be an HVAC Helper?

To start as an HVAC helper, the first step should be finishing a job training program or an apprenticeship. These programs usually last for a few months to a year and provide hands-on training in the installation and maintenance of HVAC systems. Related subjects may be covered in additional classes, such as electrical theory and safety practices.

Once the training or apprenticeship program is complete, HVAC helpers can then receive certification from a known organization, such as the HVAC Excellence or the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. You’ll become certified after passing an exam, although some programs also require completing a certain amount of work experience or continuing education credits.

What Is an HVAC Helper’s Salary?

The average salary of an HVAC helper varies depending on factors such as how much experience they have, the region where they work and the type of company they work for.

Based on findings from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical starting wage for HVAC helpers hovers around $37,000, though a few HVAC helpers may earn more or less than this amount. With experience and completing more training, HVAC helpers can graduate into truly professional HVAC technicians, earning higher average salaries.

Overall, an HVAC helper is an important member of a heating and cooling team, ensuring professional installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems. After training and education programs are complete, an HVAC helper can become a valuable and well-paid member of the HVAC industry.