An HVAC and Plumbing Technician installs, maintains, and repairs systems that control temperature, ventilation, and air quality (HVAC - Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), as well as systems that distribute water, dispose of waste, and manage drainage (Plumbing). They ensure that residential, commercial, and industrial buildings have functional, healthy, and efficient utility systems.
Typical Education
A high school diploma or equivalent is required, followed by an Associate's degree or post-secondary non-degree award from a technical/trade school, and a multi-year apprenticeship.
Salary Range in the United States
The median annual wage for HVAC Technicians was approximately $59,810. The range typically falls between $39,130 (lowest 10 percent) and $91,020 (highest 10 percent). Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters had a similar median annual wage.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, as cited by Jobber and Housecall Pro (2025 data)
Day in the Life
Get a look at the diagnostic and service work performed by a residential HVAC technician on a daily basis.
How to Become an HVAC and Plumbing Technician
- Complete High School and Trade School: Obtain a diploma and complete a program (1-2 years) at a technical or trade school focusing on HVAC, plumbing, or both disciplines, learning theory and basic skills.
- Enter an Apprenticeship: Secure a formal apprenticeship, typically lasting 4-5 years, which combines paid on-the-job training under a licensed journeyman with classroom instruction.
- Obtain EPA Certification (HVAC): Pass the required exam to earn a Section 608 certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to legally handle refrigerants.
- Achieve Licensing: After completing an apprenticeship and accumulating required hours, pass state or local licensing exams to become a Journeyman technician or plumber.
- Maintain Continuous Education: Stay current on evolving building codes, new technologies (e.g., smart thermostats, variable refrigerant flow systems), and safety standards through ongoing training.
Essential Skills
- Diagnostic and Troubleshooting: Superior ability to systematically locate and identify the root cause of complex mechanical, electrical, and flow issues in interconnected systems.
- Mechanical and Electrical Aptitude: Proficiency in working with both the physical components (pipes, ducts, valves) and the electrical systems (motors, wiring, controls) that power HVAC and plumbing.
- Code and Blueprint Reading: The capacity to read and interpret detailed construction blueprints, technical manuals, and local, state, and national building codes (e.g., Uniform Plumbing Code, International Mechanical Code).
- Brazing and Soldering: The technical skill to join various materials, particularly copper pipes and refrigeration lines, ensuring leak-tight, reliable connections.
- Customer Service and Communication: Professional and clear communication with clients to explain diagnostic findings, necessary repairs, costs, and preventive maintenance tips.
Key Responsibilities
- Install and Upgrade Systems: Install new HVAC units, ductwork, piping, fixtures, and water/waste lines according to engineering plans and current building codes.
- Perform Diagnostics and Repair: Troubleshoot and repair malfunctioning furnaces, air conditioners, water heaters, pipe leaks, and drainage issues using gauges, meters, and diagnostic tools.
- Conduct Preventive Maintenance: Perform scheduled checks, cleaning, and tune-ups on HVAC systems (coils, filters) and plumbing components to ensure optimal efficiency and longevity.
- Manage Refrigerants (HVAC): Safely handle, recover, reclaim, and dispose of refrigerants in compliance with environmental regulations and EPA guidelines.
- Ensure Code Compliance: Verify that all installations, repairs, and material usage meet stringent local and national plumbing and mechanical safety codes.
Five Common Interview Questions
- "A customer reports their air conditioner is running constantly but not cooling the house. Walk me through your diagnostic steps." This assesses your troubleshooting methodology for a common HVAC failure and your knowledge of system components.
- "Describe a time you encountered a significant plumbing leak in a client's finished space. How did you mitigate the damage and communicate with the client?" This gauges your crisis management, ability to minimize property damage, and customer communication skills.
- "What is your experience with variable frequency drives (VFDs) or smart home control systems, and how do they change the way you approach service?" This tests your familiarity with modern technology and how it impacts system diagnostics and setup.
- "You need to braze a refrigerant line in a tight space near flammable material. What safety precautions are absolutely required?" This checks your safety adherence and knowledge of hot work permits, fire watch, and proper equipment setup.
- "How do you stay current with changes in the International Plumbing Code (IPC) or International Mechanical Code (IMC)?" This measures your commitment to ongoing professional development and regulatory compliance.
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