Seven Major Roles of an HVAC Technician

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When you hear about HVAC technicians, you probably think of people who fix heating and cooling systems after they fail. This is certainly an important responsibility for these professionals. However, they also perform several crucial installation and maintenance tasks.

Setup

Technicians recommend, configure and install new equipment that suits the needs of specific buildings. Such machines range from heat pumps to whole-house humidifiers. These experts attach HVAC systems to electrical and fuel supplies. They use various tools, such as torches, pipe cutters and wrenches.

Maintenance

After installation, preventive maintenance proves vital to system reliability and efficiency. Many technicians provide duct cleaning and filter replacement services. They frequently perform tuneups before the hottest and coldest seasons. Companies like Goettl Air Conditioning offer comprehensive maintenance plans at economical monthly rates.

Repairs

When heating and cooling equipment malfunctions or stops working, technicians have the expertise, tools and supplies needed to fix it. Common tasks range from replacing cracked heat exchangers to eliminating refrigerant leaks. Due to the dangers associated with natural gas and high-voltage electricity, professional training is necessary.

Replacement

In some situations, it’s more economical to buy efficient new equipment rather than fix an old HVAC system. Technicians know how to replace furnaces, heat pumps and central air conditioners. They often reuse some of the existing components, such as ducts and pipes.

Inspections

An HVAC technician can thoroughly examine heating and cooling systems to confirm that they work reliably and safely. Unlike the typical home inspector, a technician knows how to detect carbon monoxide leaks or an imminent breakdown. Consider scheduling inspections in these situations:

  • When a system sounds different
  • Before buying a house or business
  • After a fire or natural disaster


Energy Audits

Some technicians offer to inspect an entire building and evaluate its efficiency. They suggest specific ways to cut energy costs, such as sealing holes, installing vents or adding insulation in certain places. This service can produce significant long-term savings.

Recommendations

When home and business owners have questions about their HVAC systems, technicians provide useful personalized advice. For example, you might need help with a complex programmable thermostat or want to know how often you should clean an air conditioner’s filter.

Basically, a technician conducts nearly every task needed to keep an HVAC system working efficiently and dependably. Although many professionals embrace all of the above-mentioned roles, some specialists exclusively work as installers or mechanics.