HVAC Technician: What is the cost of hiring?

Why hire an HVAC technician?

An HVAC technician is responsible for installing, maintaining and repairing heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems in residential and commercial settings. They ensure that systems operate efficiently, which helps businesses reduce energy costs and create a comfortable environment for employees and customers.

Contributions of a great HVAC technician:

• provides optimal system performance and energy efficiency
• helps maintain regulatory compliance and safety standards
• minimizes downtime by promptly addressing system issues, improving business productivity

Deciding between a full-time vs freelance HVAC technician

When deciding between hiring a full-time HVAC technician or a freelance contractor, consider the needs of your business. Hiring a freelance or contract HVAC technician may be the best solution for short-term projects, like installing new HVAC systems, conducting seasonal maintenance, or addressing one-off repair jobs. It allows flexibility without the commitment of ongoing employment. On the other hand, if your business requires regular maintenance, frequent repairs, or full-time system monitoring, a permanent full-time HVAC technician can provide consistency and be more cost-effective in the long run. Full-time employees also allow for better system knowledge and long-term planning.

What are the different types of HVAC technicians?

HVAC technicians can specialize in various roles, depending on their skills and the type of systems they work with. Each level of HVAC technician ensures that heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems function correctly. Some focus on installing new systems, while others specialize in repairs or maintenance. These technicians can also differ based on their industry, whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial work. Roles can vary in seniority, with some requiring more hands-on expertise and others focusing on system design and engineering.

Common HVAC technician roles include:

• HVAC installer: Specializes in installing heating and cooling systems in new buildings or during renovations.
• HVAC service technician: Focuses on troubleshooting, diagnosing, and repairing system malfunctions.
• Refrigeration technician: Typically referred to as HVAC/R technicians, they work primarily with refrigeration systems, such as commercial refrigerators or industrial freezers.
• HVAC maintenance technician: Performs routine inspections and preventive maintenance to keep systems running efficiently.
• HVAC engineer: Designs and oversees large-scale HVAC projects, often in commercial or industrial settings.

Where to find HVAC technicians?

To find the right HVAC technicians for your business, consider trying out a few different recruiting strategies:

• Industry trade shows: Events like the Canadian Mechanical & Plumbing Exposition (CMPX) attract HVAC professionals nationwide, providing networking opportunities to meet potential candidates.
• Trade associations: The Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) is an excellent resource for connecting with skilled HVAC technicians through its job board and member directory.
• Vocational schools: Many Canadian institutions, such as Humber College and BCIT, offer HVAC programs where you can recruit graduates trained in the latest techniques and systems.
• Internal promotions: If your business employs general maintenance or engineering staff, promoting from within to HVAC-specific roles can help build a loyal, well-rounded team.
• Post your job online: Try posting your HVAC technician job on Indeed to find and attract quality HVAC technician candidates.

Skills to look for in a great HVAC technician

A great HVAC technician candidate will have the following skills and attributes as well as work experience that reflects:

• Problem solving: Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot HVAC issues efficiently.
• Technical proficiency: Skilled in operating, installing, and maintaining heating and cooling systems.
• Customer service: Communicates clearly and addresses client concerns professionally.
• Time management: Capable of prioritizing tasks and completing projects on time.
• Attention to detail: Ensures all work meets safety and industry standards.
• Physical stamina: Able to perform physically demanding tasks in various working conditions.

Writing an HVAC technician job description

A thoughtful description is important for finding qualified HVAC technician candidates. An HVAC technician job description includes a compelling summary of the role, a detailed list of duties and responsibilities, and the required and preferred skills for the position.

When writing your HVAC technician job description, consider including some or all of the following keywords to improve the visibility of your job posting. These are the most popular search terms leading to clicks on HVAC technician jobs, according to Indeed data:

• hvac
• hvac technician
• hvac apprentice
• apprentice
• hvac helper
• gas technician
• refrigeration
• apprenticeship
• technician
• refrigeration apprentice

Interviewing HVAC technician candidates

Strong candidates for HVAC technician positions will be confident answering questions regarding:

• experience troubleshooting and repairing HVAC systems
• knowledge of HVAC regulations, codes, and safety protocols
• ability to work independently and manage time effectively
• customer service experience and communication skills
• handling and diagnosing complex or urgent system issues

Need help coming up with interview questions? See our list of HVAC technician interview questions for examples (with sample answers).