HVAC Schools in Virginia

HVAC professionals are required to obtain some form of training and formal education in order to do their chosen job. The professionals who work in this field will be responsible for installing, maintaining, and servicing heating, cooling, and ventilation systems in residential and commercial settings. In addition, the professional can choose whether they want to specialize in residential or commercial services in order to get a better target market and perfect their craft. Tasks that are done include installing units for heating and cooling such as furnaces, central air units, ventilation systems, and other systems. They will also be responsible for providing ongoing maintenance and repairs for these machines, so technical training and hands-on experience is a must-have. Licensure is required in most cases and will vary by the state of residency of the professional. This career is one that is very technical and can provide a rewarding salary to those who choose it. Average hourly wages vary depending on whether the professional works in government, residential, commercial, or direct sales careers, but ranges from about $12.00 an hour to about $25.00 an hour. Apprentices that are just starting out will earn about 50% of what experienced workers are paid. There are about 15% of the professionals in this industry that belong to unions, including the Sheet Metal Workers International Association, the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.