Occupation Details
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.
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Interests
Realistic
Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
Investigative
Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
Conventional
Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
Work Values
Relationships
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
Support
Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
Independence
Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$43,010.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$63,100.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$81,780.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
19,360
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
23,170
+381 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
2,377
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.2%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
College Helps - Some college classes or training
Experience Requirements
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
Education Requirements
Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Training Details
Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants.
School Programs
The following lists school programs which are applicable to this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Apprenticeship
Earn While You Learn: Discover hands-on training opportunities that combine paid work experience with classroom instruction for this career path.
AT Plumbing and Heating JATC LU #13
Rochester, NY
Announcement
The Plumbing and Heating Joint Apprenticeship and Training Council, Local Union #13, will conduct a recruitment from March 4, 2025 through March 3, 2026 for 10 Plumber apprentices;10 Steamfitter apprentices; and 10 Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Mechanic apprentices.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as GED or TASC). Proof must be presented with transcripts at time of application. Must pass a physical exam and drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must submit to random drug testing at any time during the apprenticeship. Must pass a Math exam, at the time of application, with a score of 70% or higher. Must attest that they are physically able to do the work of a Plumber, Steamfitter, or Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Mechanic which includes: Heavy lifting (in excess of 80 lbs. on occasion). Working in confined spaces. Climbing and working at various heights from ladders, lifts, and scaffolds. Working indoors and outdoors, in industrial plants, institutions, commercial buildings, and power plants. Must be legally able to work in the United States. Must have a valid drivers license. Apprentices may be required to drive company vehicles. Must have reliable transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school. Must be a resident, for at least one year, within the jurisdiction of Local Union #13. This includes the counties of Allegany, Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, or Yates. Must appear for an interview when scheduled. Proof of the following items must be presented after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship: minimum age of 18; transcripts from any other educational programs that are to be considered; current drivers license; resident within the jurisdiction of Local Union #13; and DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if applicable. Apprentices are required to reimburse the JATC for 50% of the book cost during each year of the apprenticeship. Approximate annual book costs are as follows: 1st year, $70-$100; 2nd and 3rd year, $70; 4th and 5th year, $35.
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained and submitted, in person only, from The Plumbing and Heating Joint Apprenticeship and Training Council, Local Union #13, 1850 Mt. Read Blvd., Rochester, NY 14615 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications must be completed in person.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact The Plumbing and Heating Joint Apprenticeship and Training Council, Local Union #13 at (585) 338-2360. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers). http://www.ualocal13.org/about.asp
Program Dates
Contact Information
Rochester, NY 14615
AT Sheet Metal Workers Local # 46
Rochester, NY
Announcement
The Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) for Sheet Metal Workers of Rochester, Local Union #46, will conduct a recruitment from April 8, 2025 through April 7, 2026 for 10 Sheet Metal Worker apprentices and 10 Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Mechanic apprentices. Applications are available online, during the recruitment period, at www.SMW46.com. Please contact JATC Coordinator Tim Ventress at (585) 647-3200 with any technical questions. Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. on April 7, 2026.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as TASC or GED), with one year of algebra with a passing grade in Math Course I or Math Course II; or a minimum of 55 on the TASC or GED math test. Must sign an affidavit attesting they are physically able to perform the work of the trade. Work in the Sheet Metal Industry may be physical and strenuous. It includes: Climbing ladders, scaffolds and roofs. Working at great heights. Lifting materials in excess of 70 lbs. Working outdoors in all types of weather conditions. Must take and pass a drug test upon offer of employment. May be subject to additional drug testing at any time during the apprenticeship program. Drug testing is paid for by the sponsor. Must have a valid NYS drivers license in order to operate company vehicles. Must have reliable transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school. Must be a resident, for at least one year, within the jurisdiction of Sheet Metal Workers of Rochester, Local Union #46, which includes the counties of Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact Sheet Metal Workers of Rochester, Local Union #46 at (585) 254-9151. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers).
Program Dates
Contact Information
Rochester, NY 14624
AT Plumbing and Heating JATC LU #13
Rochester, NY
Announcement
The Plumbing and Heating Joint Apprenticeship and Training Council, Local Union #13, will conduct a recruitment from March 4, 2025 through March 3, 2026 for 10 Plumber apprentices;10 Steamfitter apprentices; and 10 Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Mechanic apprentices.
Requirements
The Committee requires that applicants: Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. Must have a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma (such as GED or TASC). Proof must be presented with transcripts at time of application. Must pass a physical exam and drug test, at the expense of the sponsor, after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship. Must submit to random drug testing at any time during the apprenticeship. Must pass a Math exam, at the time of application, with a score of 70% or higher. Must attest that they are physically able to do the work of a Plumber, Steamfitter, or Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Mechanic which includes: Heavy lifting (in excess of 80 lbs. on occasion). Working in confined spaces. Climbing and working at various heights from ladders, lifts, and scaffolds. Working indoors and outdoors, in industrial plants, institutions, commercial buildings, and power plants. Must be legally able to work in the United States. Must have a valid drivers license. Apprentices may be required to drive company vehicles. Must have reliable transportation to and from various job sites and required classes at the approved school. Must be a resident, for at least one year, within the jurisdiction of Local Union #13. This includes the counties of Allegany, Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, or Yates. Must appear for an interview when scheduled. Proof of the following items must be presented after selection and prior to enrollment in apprenticeship: minimum age of 18; transcripts from any other educational programs that are to be considered; current drivers license; resident within the jurisdiction of Local Union #13; and DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, if applicable. Apprentices are required to reimburse the JATC for 50% of the book cost during each year of the apprenticeship. Approximate annual book costs are as follows: 1st year, $70-$100; 2nd and 3rd year, $70; 4th and 5th year, $35.
How to Apply
Applications can be obtained and submitted, in person only, from The Plumbing and Heating Joint Apprenticeship and Training Council, Local Union #13, 1850 Mt. Read Blvd., Rochester, NY 14615 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month, excluding legal holidays, during the recruitment period. Applications must be completed in person.
Additional Information
For further information, applicants should contact The Plumbing and Heating Joint Apprenticeship and Training Council, Local Union #13 at (585) 338-2360. Additional job search assistance can be obtained at your local New York State Department of Labor Career Center (see: https://dol.ny.gov/career-centers). http://www.ualocal13.org/about.asp
Program Dates
Contact Information
Rochester, NY 14615
Skills
The list below includes the skills required by workers in this occupation; skills are what allow you to learn more quickly and improve your performance.
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Troubleshooting
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Installation
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Repairing
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Skill level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Knowledge
The list below includes knowledge items, the principles and facts required by this occupation.
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Knowledge level is measured on a seven point scale, where one means 'some competence required for this occupation' and seven means 'a high level of expertise required for this occupation'.
Work Environment
The list below includes the physical and social factors that influence the nature of work in this occupation.
Hover over or tap each factor to see its description.
Work Styles
Included in the list below are the personal work style characteristics that can affect how well a worker is likely to perform in this occupation.
Analytical Thinking
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
Concern for Others
Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
Independence
Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
Innovation
Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
- 4-wire resistance sensors
- Acetylene torches
- Adjustable widemouth pliers
- Adjustable wrenches
- Air compressors
- Air flow hoods
- Air velocity meters
- Air volume test equipment
- Allen wrenches
- Alternating current AC line splitters
- Ammeters
- Anemometers
- Autoranging meters
- Awls
- Bandsaws
- Bead type thermocouples
- Belt tension indicators
- Black lights
- Bolt cutters
- Bourdon tubes
- Box cutters
- Brazing equipment
- Bubble levels
- Calipers
- Capacitor analyzers
- Carbon dioxide CO2 testers
- Carbon monoxide detectors
- Carbon monoxide evaluators
- Caulking guns
- Chalk lines
Technology
- Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
- Alerton Ascent Compass
- Atlas Construction Business Forms
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Building automation software
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
- Contact management systems
- Cworks CMMS
- Database software
- Delta Controls inteliWEB
- Facility energy management software
- Graphics software
- HVAC tools software
- Honeywell WEBs-N4
- IBM Maximo Asset Management
Duties
Duties are job behaviors describing activities that occur on multiple jobs. The generalized and detailed work activities described in the list below apply to this occupation.
- lay out electrical wiring for buildings, etc.
- lay out machining, welding or precision assembly projects
- plan layout of electrical/electronic equipment installation
- measure and mark reference points or cutting lines on workpieces
- order or purchase supplies, materials, or equipment
- schedule activities, classes, or events
- direct and coordinate activities of workers or staff
- estimate time or cost for installation, repair, or construction projects
- estimate time or cost for installation, repair, or construction projects
- determine installation, service, or repair needed
- determine installation, service, or repair needed
- determine material or tool requirements
- determine material or tool requirements
- maintain repair records
- maintain repair records
- repair refrigeration or HVAC equipment
- repair refrigeration or HVAC equipment
- install or replace meters, regulators, or related measuring or control devices
- install or replace meters, regulators, or related measuring or control devices
- install/connect electrical equipment to power circuit
- install/connect electrical equipment to power circuit
- replace electronic components
- replace electronic components
- install electronic equipment, components, or systems
- install electronic equipment, components, or systems
- repair or replace electrical wiring, circuits, fixtures, or equipment
- repair or replace electrical wiring, circuits, fixtures, or equipment
- install electrical conduit or tubing
- install electrical conduit or tubing
- test electrical/electronic wiring, equipment, systems or fixtures
- test electrical/electronic wiring, equipment, systems or fixtures
- analyze operation of malfunctioning electrical or electronic equipment
- analyze operation of malfunctioning electrical or electronic equipment
- test electronic or electrical circuit connections
- test electronic or electrical circuit connections
- install electrical fixtures or components
- install electrical fixtures or components
- fabricate ducting
- fabricate ducting
- fabricate sheet metal parts or items
- use electronic calibration devices
- use electronic calibration devices
- use hand or power woodworking tools
- use hand or power woodworking tools
- operate sheet metal fabrication machines
- control HVAC equipment
- solder electrical or electronic connections or components
- solder electrical or electronic connections or components
- use electrical or electronic test devices or equipment
- use electrical or electronic test devices or equipment
- use hand or power tools
- use hand or power tools
- use pipe fitting equipment
- use pipe fitting equipment
- use precision measuring devices in mechanical repair work
- use precision measuring devices in mechanical repair work
- use precision tools in electronics repair
- use precision tools in electronics repair
- use pressure gauges
- use pressure gauges
- use voltmeter, ammeter, or ohmmeter
- use voltmeter, ammeter, or ohmmeter
- use high voltage apparatus
- use acetylene welding/cutting torch
- use acetylene welding/cutting torch
- weld together metal parts, components, or structures
- weld together metal parts, components, or structures
- operate pneumatic test equipment
- use tube bending equipment
- use braze-welding equipment
- solder metal parts or components together
- braze metal parts or components together
- use soldering equipment
- use soldering equipment
- use arc welding equipment
- use arc welding equipment
- operate hoist, winch, or hydraulic boom
- adjust or set mechanical controls or components
- adjust or set mechanical controls or components
- align or adjust clearances of mechanical components or parts
- diagnose mechanical problems in machinery or equipment
- diagnose mechanical problems in machinery or equipment
- repair or adjust measuring or control devices
- repair or adjust measuring or control devices
- repair or replace gas, steam, sewer, or water piping or fixtures
- repair or replace gas, steam, sewer, or water piping or fixtures
- test mechanical products or equipment
- test mechanical products or equipment
- maintain welding machines or equipment
- maintain welding machines or equipment
- maintain or repair industrial or related equipment/machinery
- maintain or repair industrial or related equipment/machinery
- maintain or repair work tools or equipment
- maintain or repair work tools or equipment
- overhaul industrial or construction machinery or equipment
- conduct tests to locate mechanical system malfunction
- conduct tests to locate mechanical system malfunction
- repair or replace malfunctioning or worn mechanical components
- repair or replace malfunctioning or worn mechanical components
- lubricate machinery, equipment, or parts
- position, align, or level machines, equipment, or structures
- position, align, or level machines, equipment, or structures
- assemble, dismantle, or reassemble equipment or machinery
- assemble, dismantle, or reassemble equipment or machinery
- install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures
- install equipment or attachments on machinery or related structures
- inspect machinery or equipment to determine adjustments or repairs needed
- inspect machinery or equipment to determine adjustments or repairs needed
- observe or listen to machinery or equipment operation to detect malfunctions
- adhere to safety procedures
- adhere to safety procedures
- perform safety inspections in industrial, manufacturing or repair setting
- use basic carpentry techniques
- use basic plumbing techniques
- use basic plumbing techniques
- use knowledge of ventilation systems
- use knowledge of ventilation systems
- use oral or written communication techniques
- use combination welding procedures
- use combination welding procedures
- use knowledge of metric system
- use knowledge of metric system
- use knowledge of welding filler rod types
- use knowledge of welding filler rod types
- identify properties of metals for repair or fabrication activities
- identify properties of metals for repair or fabrication activities
- understand detailed electronic design specifications
- understand service or repair manuals
- understand service or repair manuals
- understand technical operating, service or repair manuals
- understand technical operating, service or repair manuals
- assemble and install pipe sections, fittings, or plumbing fixtures
- assemble and install pipe sections, fittings, or plumbing fixtures
- bend tubing or conduit
- bend tubing or conduit
- fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
- fabricate, assemble, or disassemble manufactured products by hand
- bend pipes
- bend pipes
- determine project methods and procedures
- determine project methods and procedures
- conduct performance testing
- pressure test piping system or equipment for leaks
- pressure test piping system or equipment for leaks
- apply cleaning solvents
- install/string electrical or electronic cable or wiring
- install/string electrical or electronic cable or wiring
- move or fit heavy objects
- move or fit heavy objects
- cut, bend, or thread pipe for gas, air, hydraulic, or water lines
- cut, bend, or thread pipe for gas, air, hydraulic, or water lines
- install insulating materials
- install insulating materials
- install sheet metal assemblies in supportive framework
- install sheet metal assemblies in supportive framework
- read blueprints
- read blueprints
- read specifications
- read schematics
- read schematics
- read technical drawings
- read technical drawings
- obtain information from clients, customers, or patients
- read work order, instructions, formulas, or processing charts
- read work order, instructions, formulas, or processing charts
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Repair or service heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to improve efficiency, such as by changing filters, cleaning ducts, and refilling non-toxic refrigerants.
- Test pipes, lines, components, and connections for leaks.
- Test electrical circuits or components for continuity, using electrical test equipment.
- Comply with all applicable standards, policies, or procedures, such as safety procedures or the maintenance of a clean work area.
- Study blueprints, design specifications, or manufacturers' recommendations to ascertain the configuration of heating or cooling equipment components and to ensure the proper installation of components.
- Discuss heating or cooling system malfunctions with users to isolate problems or to verify that repairs corrected malfunctions.
- Connect heating or air conditioning equipment to fuel, water, or refrigerant source to form complete circuit.
- Adjust system controls to settings recommended by manufacturer to balance system.
- Recommend, develop, or perform preventive or general maintenance procedures, such as cleaning, power-washing, or vacuuming equipment, oiling parts, or changing filters.
- Repair or replace defective equipment, components, or wiring.
- Inspect and test systems to verify system compliance with plans and specifications or to detect and locate malfunctions.
- Install or repair self-contained ground source heat pumps or hybrid ground or air source heat pumps to minimize carbon-based energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions.
- Install, connect, or adjust thermostats, humidistats, or timers.
- Install auxiliary components to heating or cooling equipment, such as expansion or discharge valves, air ducts, pipes, blowers, dampers, flues, or stokers.
- Braze or solder parts to repair defective joints and leaks.
- Lay out and connect electrical wiring between controls and equipment, according to wiring diagrams, using electrician's hand tools.
- Perform mechanical overhauls and refrigerant reclaiming.
- Install expansion and control valves, using acetylene torches and wrenches.
- Measure, cut, thread, or bend pipe or tubing, using pipe fitter's tools.
- Mount compressor, condenser, and other components in specified locations on frames, using hand tools and acetylene welding equipment.
- Install dehumidifiers or related equipment for spaces that require cool, dry air to operate efficiently, such as computer rooms.
- Record and report time, materials, faults, deficiencies, or other unusual occurrences on work orders.
- Keep records of repairs and replacements made and causes of malfunctions.
- Cut or drill holes in floors, walls, or roof to install equipment, using power saws or drills.
- Estimate, order, pick up, deliver, and install materials and supplies needed to maintain equipment in good working condition.
- Schedule work with customers and initiate work orders, house requisitions, and orders from stock.
- Supervise and instruct assistants.
- Lay out reference points for installation of structural and functional components, using measuring instruments.
- Lift and align components into position, using hoist or block and tackle.
- Install or repair air purification systems, such as specialized filters or ultraviolet (UV) light purification systems.
Learning Resources
More information on this occupation may be found in the links provided below.
ACE Mentor Program Career Directions for Students in Architecture, Construction, or Engineering
The ACE Mentor Program serves high school youth who are exploring careers in Architecture, Construction, or Engineering.The mentors are professionals from leading design and construction firms who volunteer their time and energy. The program is designed to engage, inform, and challenge youth. New York Chapters include Long Island, New York City, Utica, Buffalo, Capital District, Syracuse and Binghamton
Learn MoreHeating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers
Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.
Learn More