Does the idea of working outside and with your hands sound more appealing than the traditional 9 to 5? If so, you might consider working with air conditioning systems. The industry is growing fast and offers tons of opportunities for advancement. It also keeps you active and away from the screen. 

If you want to learn how to become an AC technician, find the right training courses, and acquire the skills needed to start working in this field, read on.

There’s more to being an AC Technician than you might think. There are specific skills that AC Technicians have to learn to accomplish their responsibilities, but the hard work pays off. 

The median annual salary of AC technicians, mechanics, and installers is $50,590, with the top ten percent of earners pocketing over $80,000 per year. 

Below, we’ll introduce four simple steps to help propel your journey toward becoming an AC technician.

What Does an AC Technician Do?

Before we dive in, we should talk about what distinguishes AC technicians from HVAC employers. While HVAC technicians install, repair, and maintain heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems, AC technicians work only on air-conditioning systems.

Four Steps to Becoming an AC Technician

If you want to become an AC technician, you can choose from multiple education/training options.

Get a High School Diploma

Most AC technician training programs and apprenticeships need at least a high school diploma or GED., though some programs may accept individuals without this credential. 

In addition to helping you meet the enrollment criteria, a high school education will provide you with a foundation in mathematics and science, which can come in handy during AC technician training. 

You can also take vocational courses in your high school to improve your mechanical skills, dexterity, and other necessary skills.

Choose an Education or Apprenticeship Program

After completing high school, you can choose a post-secondary AC technician education program or an apprenticeship.

AC technician degrees include certificate programs and associate degrees. These programs are often offered at trade schools or community colleges and take anywhere from 12 to 24 months to complete.

During your program, you’ll gain the knowledge and technical skills to become an AC technician through classroom instruction and practical lab hours. After completing an education program, you can apply for entry-level AC technician jobs.

Skills and Personality Traits of AC Technicians

Here’s are some of the essential skills and personality traits for a successful career:

•  Knowledge of domestic and commercial AC troubleshooting and repair

•  Hands-on experience on pneumatic and digital control systems

•  Knowledge of compliance with safety procedures

•  Preventive and corrective maintenance procedures

•  Cost estimation

•  Installation of new AC systems

•  Knowledge of safe handling and disposal of refrigerants

•  Maintenance and repair of electrical wiring, circuitry, and components

•  Ability to work with testing equipment for air quality, pressure, and temperature measurement

•  Blueprint reading, sketching, and design calculations

As AC technicians work in a practical-intensive environment, they should possess the following personality traits to excel at their job:

•  Hand-eye coordination

•  Attention to detail

•  Manual dexterity

•  Physical strength

AC Technician: Career Path, Salary, and Job Outlook

Many AC technicians start with apprenticeships or entry-level positions. After gaining adequate experience, an AC technician can work as a supervisor to train and manage a team of new technicians. 

AC technicians can progress to managerial roles with about 15 years of work experience. Alternatively, you can work independently or start your HVAC business.

Career Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of Heating, AC, and Refrigeration mechanics will increase by 5 percent from 2020-30, adding about 19,000 new jobs. 

Most commercial and residential projects require the services of air-conditioning technicians. The construction industry will drive significant employment growth.

New and sophisticated climate-control systems are also increasing, and people need qualified AC technicians to install, repair, and retrofit advanced systems.

Salary and Wages

AC technicians earn median wages of about $24.32 per hour or $50,590 annually. The top 10 percent of highest-earning AC professionals have a median salary of more than $80,820 per year. Education, skills, experience, and job location typically influence AC technician salaries.

Benefits of Becoming an AC Technician

HVAC is one of the highest-paying trades, offering excellent wages and benefits. You can also start your business or work independently at your own pace. 

Besides the monetary perks, an AC technician will enjoy plenty of opportunities for growth. Since HVAC remains a constantly evolving field, you’ll always find something new to learn. 

Conclusion

An AC technician career offers excellent salary and career growth prospects. You can choose a certificate program, associate degree, or apprenticeship to become an AC technician.