HVAC Installer vs. Technician
So you've decided to start running an HVAC service, and you're trying to figure out the best route to take in the HVAC business. You most likely haven't decided whether to focus on being an HVAC technician or stick with the business's less technical but equally lucrative side - HVAC Installations.
In this section we'll be looking at the terms HVAC Installer and Technician individually along with knowing the difference between them. Let's get started!
The HVAC Installer
An HVAC installer is a person who installs air conditioners, ventilation, and heating systems on a property. Installations take place in new homes and offices. However, there might be cases where an older building may need its old HVAC systems replaced by newer models that are energy efficient.
Installers also set up smart home devices and climate control systems. Some states require installers to have specific certifications and permits before installing insulation systems and ventilation ducts in commercial buildings. HVAC installers with these permits also call themselves HVAC contractors.
The HVAC Technician
A technician's job focuses more on the maintenance and repairs of HVAC systems. A technician's job starts with system inspection and diagnostics checks on vital components like the compressor, refrigerant levels, wiring, pipes, and condenser coils. A maintenance visit by a technician involves cleaning the system components and replacing any faulty or damaged parts of the HVAC system.
Specialized HVAC Technicians
Along with the regular maintenance and repairs, some technicians offer specialized services that separate them from the competition. These specialized technicians include :
Pipe Fitters
These are exceptional HVAC technicians who construct piping systems for hot water large-scale housing units and industrial/commercial buildings.
HVAC Fabricators
A fabricator studies the blueprint of a building to create customized ductwork when setting up HVAC systems.
HVAC Engineers
An engineer sets up customized HVAC systems for commercial buildings and homes. They work with complex zoning layouts to determine the capacity required for a fully functional HVAC system for their clients.
Boiler Technicians
Boilers are a unique heating system that uses steam. A technician requires specific knowledge to install, maintain and repair boilers; some states even require a boiler tech to have a plumbing license.
The Difference Between A HVAC Installer And A Technician
The main difference between an installer and a technician is the kind of tasks they handle. An installer handles Installations and simple maintenance on HVAC systems, while a technician takes care of the more complex problems. Technicians require more training and constantly update themselves when new systems are released for each brand they work on.
Final Words
There you have it, the critical difference between an HVAC installer vs. the technician. When choosing your career path, it is essential to consider factors like demand, work consistency, salary, risks, and difficulty levels. Factors like demand and work consistency vary from state to state. Most HVAC contractors are business owners, so whether you set up your own business or become an employee, there is no law stopping you from training to be both an installer and a technician.
