Careers in Air Conditioning

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING iNSTALLER or SERVICE TECHNICIAN

Installs, services, and repairs environmental control systems in residences, department stores, office buildings, and commercial establishments, utilizing knowledge of refrigeration theory, pipefitting, and structural layout: Mounts compressor and condenser units on platform or floor, using hand tools, following blueprints or engineering specifications. Fabricates, assembles, and installs ductwork and chassis parts, using portable metalworking tools and welding equipment

DUCT INSTALLER 

Installs evaporator unit in chassis or in air duct system, using hand tools. Cuts and bends tubing to correct length and shape, using cutting and bending equipment and tools. Cuts and threads pipe, using machine-threading or hand-threading equipment. Joins tubing or pipe to various refrigerating units by means of sleeves, couplings, or unions, and solders joints, using torch, forming complete circuit for refrigerant

PIPE FITTER

Installs expansion and discharge valves in circuit. Connects motors, compressors, temperature controls, humidity controls, and circulating-ventilation fans to control panels and connects control panels to power source

ELECTRICIAN

Installs air and water filters in completed installation. Injects small amount of refrigerant into compressor to test systems, and charge with refrigerant gas to build up prescribed operating pressure. Observes pressure and vacuum gauges and adjusts controls to ensure efficient operation. Tests joints and connections for gas leaks, using gauges or soap.

The Heating & Air Conditioning Installer Servicer working in TX - Houston now earns an average salary of 40,762. Half of those in this position would earn between 30,490 and 55,767 (the 17th and 67th percentiles). These numbers are derived from real, area specific, survey data.

When benefits and bonuses are added to this salary, the average total compensation for this position would be 48,344. The report below also explains how the cost-of-living in this location affects the actual value of this salary.

From http://www.salaryexpert.com

Licensing / Certification

In all states, mechanics who purchase or work with refrigerants must be certified. In this case, certification indicates that mechanics know how to handle refrigerants properly. To become certified to purchase and handle refrigerants, mechanics must pass a written exam. Exams are administered by organizations approved by the EPA, such as trade schools, unions, and employer associations. There is no formal training required for certification. For additional information about certification, contact:

Environmental Protection Agency
Phone: 800.296.1996
http://www.epa.gov/ozone
Search for "Complying with the 608 Rule." Scroll down the page to "Technician Certification."


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