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

HVAC helpers work with experienced HVAC technicians while they perform the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.

Your average HVAC helper has less experience when compared to fully certified 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

• Cleaning and preparing job sites

• Supporting the installation, maintenance and repair of heating and cooling systems

They may also conduct basic tests and checks on HVAC systems to look for signs of trouble.

How Do You Apply to Be an HVAC Helper?

To become an HVAC helper, you generally start by completing a training program or an apprenticeship. It takes an average of several months to a year to complete these programs, which provide hands-on training in the installation and maintenance of HVAC systems. Many programs extend classes to cover related subjects, such as electrical theory and safety practices.

As soon as they complete a training or apprenticeship program, HVAC helpers can then receive certification from a known organization, like the HVAC Excellence or the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. Becoming certified requires passing a test as well as sufficient on-site work experience or continuing education credits.

How Much Does an HVAC Helper Make?

The average salary of an HVAC helper usually depends on how much experience they have, the region where they work and which company they end up working for.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for HVAC helpers is 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 fully certified HVAC technicians, increasing their annual salaries.

All in all,, 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. With the right training and experience, an HVAC helper can become a valuable and well-paid member of the HVAC industry.