As the temperatures in Texas climb up to extreme highs and dip down to chilly lows, your HVAC system helps to keep a balanced climate in your home. So when a mishap with the system occurs, it’s critical to have a skilled professional on hand to resolve the issue and get things working smoothly again.
Who are these experts in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems? They’re HVAC technicians, of course. Keep reading to learn more about these highly trained individuals and how you can benefit from using their services.
General Overview of HVAC Technicians
The job of an HVAC technician is to install, maintain, and repair equipment that regulates indoor air quality. They can also be referred to as HVAC-R technicians, but it’s not as common.
You may find that some HVAC technicians specialize in one area of the job, such as installation or repairs. And some limit their expertise to one aspect of the system, either heating, air conditioning, or refrigeration.
Regardless of what they decide to focus on as their specialty, these service providers must receive formal training before seeking employment. Completing an HVAC training program and an apprenticeship is the first set of steps. Then, they’re expected to gain proper certifications and state licenses, which vary by state.
Besides the training and certifications, HVAC techs must also have the following skills and qualities:
- Listening and communication
- Customer service
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- Physically fit and dexterous
And finally, HVAC technicians must be adaptable to work in different settings. They should also have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record since traveling from one location to another is part of the job.
HVAC Technician Jobs
HVAC Technicians have a laundry list of duties that mainly involve installing your HVAC equipment and ensuring its optimal performance. They also have to be knowledgeable about the equipment’s system parts and maintenance risks. And they must stay current on all government regulations regarding air conditioning and refrigeration units, especially the handling of their disposal and pressurized gas and fluids.
In addition to those primary job responsibilities, here’s what else you can expect when you hire an HVAC technician:
General Maintenance Tasks
This set of tasks involves giving your equipment a thorough checkup and conducting safety tests. For instance, HVAC techs are responsible for checking your thermostat to ensure accuracy. And they may even help you program it, especially if it’s a smart thermostat. Additional tasks under this category may include:
- Monitor airflow of the ventilation system and replace air filters
- Examine the blower motor and other electrical parts
- Checking the drains, float switches, and drain pans
- Evaluating the general condition of the HVAC system
- Taking a look at the air purification system, if one is present
Through general maintenance tasks, HVAC techs run their diagnostics and assess the health of your equipment. Here is where they can help you determine which parts need replacing and which are beyond repair.
Air Conditioning Tasks
The HVAC tech would have to specialize in this component to maintain or make repairs to the air conditioner. They would need to know how to inspect the refrigerant levels to ensure it’s not too high, causing your AC to freeze up and stop working, or too low, causing the imbalance to break down your AC. Also, they’re responsible for checking and maintaining the condenser, compressor, evaporator coil, and electrical parts.
Heating Tasks
These tasks involve inspecting the exhaust on a furnaced-powered heater or the heat strips if the heating system is electrical. Checking these parts ensures that either toxic gases do not build up in your home or your system doesn’t overheat. Another critical aspect of the technician’s job is to ensure that the carbon monoxide and smoke alarms are working correctly to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires from consuming your home.
Benefits of HVAC Maintenance
When you routinely maintain your HVAC system, you extend its lifespan. Also, proper maintenance is the best way to prevent breakdowns and inefficiencies. It would be helpful if you aimed to have your system checked twice a year — ideally once before winter and once before summer.
Making HVAC maintenance a priority has other benefits as well. They include:
- Identifying health and safety issues
- Spotting minor repairs early to avoid major problems later
- Keeping your system running efficiently
- Saving money in the long run
- Preserving your system’s warranty
And while the homeowner can handle some maintenance tasks, it would be better to hire an HVAC technician for the technical aspects of the job. A tech can check your system thoroughly and quickly since they know what to look for and which method to use.
Hiring HVAC Technicians
Before hiring an HVAC technician, it’s best to do your due diligence by researching and asking the right questions. For instance, you can inquire if that potential hire has the appropriate certifications and an updated license. You can also determine if they’re able to answer your questions and adequately explain the work that needs to be done.
Using online reviews and recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors can also help find the right HVAC technician for the job. And finally, their rates may be an essential factor in your hiring decision. Therefore, make sure to get competitive quotes.
How We Can Help
If you’re in the Austin area, Schneider Mechanical is here for you 24/7. Our highly trained HVAC technicians can help with your system installation, maintenance, or repairs. Visit our site or contact us today to find out more about our services.
