5 answers
3
Questions
Asked
480 views
How do I keep a long-term career in HVAC?
Is there a more effective way to keep business in the HVAC industry more than others?
Login to comment
5 answers
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Let's start with the idea that people are always going to need heating / AC. It is everywhere and, until a different solution is created to keep us temperate, it will always need people to support it's operation.
That said, HVAC certifications are a must, especially those like the EPA 608 (which is required for you to handle refrigerants) and the NATE (North American Technician Excellence) programs that allow you to get recognized certifications in A/C, heat pumps, gas furnaces, etc .
I happen to have family members that have moved from HVAC servicing to HVAC supply, specifically the various types of air filters that have seen amazing growth since COVID as companies look to ensure that the air at work is as clean as possible to support them coming back to the office in this post Vid world.
Get your EPA 608
Get as many NATE certifications as possible
That said, HVAC certifications are a must, especially those like the EPA 608 (which is required for you to handle refrigerants) and the NATE (North American Technician Excellence) programs that allow you to get recognized certifications in A/C, heat pumps, gas furnaces, etc .
I happen to have family members that have moved from HVAC servicing to HVAC supply, specifically the various types of air filters that have seen amazing growth since COVID as companies look to ensure that the air at work is as clean as possible to support them coming back to the office in this post Vid world.
Robert recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Spencer’s Answer
Hi Kiondre,
HVAC companies service two main customer segments: residential and commercial. The needs have some overlap but how they buy can look pretty different, and the successful HVAC companies service both.
For residential, the customers are homeowners, and they typically need service when something bad happens. This means that customers don't think about their HVAC service provider most days. When they need one, they are going to ask friends for referrals and/or search on google, Angie's List and other websites. Successful companies will manage their online presence effectively and make sure they are building good reviews with their customers. Really good companies will try to set up a routine or seasonal check up with their customers to prevent problems before they pop up - this should save the customer money in the long run, and give the provider a more consistent revenue stream.
On the commercial side, i've seen some providers that service office and non-food locations, as well as some HVAC-R providers (the R is for Refrigeration). The HVAC-R providers can do more, whether that is working with a grocery store on their refrigeration units, or a restaurant on the exhaust hood and ductwork. For those more business and restaurant applications, successful providers are those who can sell more of a preventative maintenance (PM) program to their customers. This helps prevent equipment downtime and again, gives the HVAC provider more predictability to their schedule and revenues.
The best way to learn is to intern or work with a provider near you. You will learn a ton, and you'll likely see what they are doing well, as well as what they aren't doing well. Most companies I've seen are started by a technician who worked their way up. Some people in the space really enjoy working with their hands and getting out to locations, while some start there but end up enjoying the business management aspect more. Both are valid paths.
Best of luck!
HVAC companies service two main customer segments: residential and commercial. The needs have some overlap but how they buy can look pretty different, and the successful HVAC companies service both.
For residential, the customers are homeowners, and they typically need service when something bad happens. This means that customers don't think about their HVAC service provider most days. When they need one, they are going to ask friends for referrals and/or search on google, Angie's List and other websites. Successful companies will manage their online presence effectively and make sure they are building good reviews with their customers. Really good companies will try to set up a routine or seasonal check up with their customers to prevent problems before they pop up - this should save the customer money in the long run, and give the provider a more consistent revenue stream.
On the commercial side, i've seen some providers that service office and non-food locations, as well as some HVAC-R providers (the R is for Refrigeration). The HVAC-R providers can do more, whether that is working with a grocery store on their refrigeration units, or a restaurant on the exhaust hood and ductwork. For those more business and restaurant applications, successful providers are those who can sell more of a preventative maintenance (PM) program to their customers. This helps prevent equipment downtime and again, gives the HVAC provider more predictability to their schedule and revenues.
The best way to learn is to intern or work with a provider near you. You will learn a ton, and you'll likely see what they are doing well, as well as what they aren't doing well. Most companies I've seen are started by a technician who worked their way up. Some people in the space really enjoy working with their hands and getting out to locations, while some start there but end up enjoying the business management aspect more. Both are valid paths.
Best of luck!
Updated
Moroni’s Answer
Hi. HVAC career is a good option for today and the future. Just make sure to refresh your knowledge and stay up to date in new technology, products and stuff like that related to HVAC. Best regards.
Updated
Violaine’s Answer
Hi Kiondre, To maintain a long-term career in the HVAC industry, prioritize ongoing education and training to stay updated with evolving technologies and industry standards. Obtain relevant certifications, such as those offered by organizations like NATE (North American Technician Excellence), to demonstrate expertise and credibility. Cultivate strong relationships with customers by providing excellent service and communication, fostering loyalty and repeat business. Invest in quality tools and equipment to enhance efficiency and effectiveness on the job. Additionally, consider diversifying your skills or specializing in niche areas within HVAC, such as energy-efficient systems or indoor air quality solutions, to differentiate yourself and expand your market opportunities. Finally, stay adaptable and responsive to changes in the industry, whether it's new regulations, emerging technologies, or shifts in customer needs, to ensure continued success and longevity in your HVAC career.
Updated
Detra’s Answer
HI, While I don't have any experience in HVAC I think this question is applicable for all careers! Reliability, honesty and on-going education are all great tools to have. Reliability -- be there, be present and show up. Honesty -- this seems easy enough, but you would be surprised at how many people are not. On-going education -- stay up to date. Learn about your trade, trends and diversify! Good luck!