Top HVAC/R Technician Skills: What To Look for When Hiring

Whether you are looking to expand your HVAC business or are a residential, commercial, or industrial customer looking for an experienced HVAC technician, it is vital to choose one that has the HVAC technician skills you need. Taking the time to do some research and interview potential candidates ensures you find the best HVAC contractor in Las Vegas. 

Hire top-rated HVAC professionals with the skills you need.

What Skills Do You Need for HVAC?

There are numerous skills required to become an HVAC technician, HVAC/R technician, or contractor, including:

• Technical skills: Experienced HVAC technicians should possess knowledge of HVAC installation, repairs, maintenance, and diagnostics. They should be able to work on any type of residential or commercial system. 
• Problem-solving: Most HVAC problems require replacing specific parts or components or the system itself. However, when presented with a complex job, a skilled HVAC contractor should be able to come up with viable solutions reasonably quickly. 
• Electrical knowledge: Working on HVAC systems requires more than understanding how the system works and functions. It also requires having sufficient electrical knowledge to know how wiring should be connected to the thermostat, system, and circuit breaker. 
• Ability to read schematics and blueprints: HVAC contractors need to know how to read system schematics, like wiring diagrams, as well as blueprints when working on renovation or new construction jobs to ensure the HVAC system is installed correctly.
• Ductwork knowledge: Another key skill HVAC technicians require is to know how different types of ductwork systems work. They also need to know how to clean and seal ductwork and pinpoint circulation issues. 
• Time management: HVAC technicians need to be able to work unsupervised and be able to manage their time to complete jobs on time as promised. Experienced HVAC contractors can manage multiple service calls and jobs every workday and know how to prioritize each one. 
• Communication skills: Effective communication with customers, vendors, and other contractors is essential to update customers on every step, let vendors know what parts are needed, or let other contractors know how HVAC installation is proceeding. 
• Organizational skills: Experienced HVAC contractors need to possess exceptional organizational skills. Their service van should be properly stocked and neat. They need to verify they have everything they need before arriving at a job site. 
• Adheres to job safety: Skilled HVAC technicians need the appropriate safety protocols to prevent workplace injuries, as well as prevent injuries to their customers and their property. 
• Educational skills: Another important HVAC technician skill is to be able to educate customers about their HVAC systems. For example, showing them how to check and change their air filter.

What To Look for When Hiring an HVAC Technician

When you need to hire an HVAC technician, they should have the appropriate experience and training to complete the required service work and jobs. Other vital skills they should have include: 

• NATE Certification: NATE (North American Technician Excellence) Certification ensures HVAC technicians are professionals and have the appropriate skills and knowledge to work on HVAC/R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) systems. Some technicians can be certified for just HVAC systems, while others can be certified to work on both HVAC systems and refrigeration systems.  
• Licensed and insured: HVAC technicians need to be licensed and insured to provide peace of mind to their customers. When an HVAC technician works for an HVAC contractor, they can be licensed and insured through the contractor. 
• Exceptional customer service: HVAC technicians have to be able to provide exceptional customer service. This includes keeping customers updated on their job status, providing accurate job estimates, completing work on time, and cleaning up after the job is completed. 
• Patience: HVAC contractors need to have patience when presented with a complex problem that requires critical thinking and problem-solving without getting upset or frustrated. They also need to know when to consult another HVAC contractor for advice or assistance.   
• Ability to explain things in a language customers understand: HVAC technicians work with people with different levels of knowledge about HVAC systems. They need to be able to explain things to customers with no or very limited HVAC knowledge.
• Punctuality: HVAC contractors need to be able to show up on time for service calls and jobs. They should communicate with customers when there will be delays and explain why, such as being delayed at another job. 
• Teamwork: HVAC technicians need to be able to work with other technicians and contractors and ensure work is completed to the customer’s satisfaction. They also should be willing to share their knowledge and expertise with other technicians.
• Free estimates and quotes: The best HVAC technicians provide free estimates and quotes detailing the work to be completed, the parts needed, and show an accurate breakdown. There should never be any hidden charges or added fees. 
• References: Exceptional technicians are willing to provide potential new customers with a list of references appropriate for the type of work. For example, other residential customers for residential jobs, and commercial customers for commercial jobs.  

Find the Best HVAC Contractors in Las Vegas Today

It is easy to find the best HVAC contractors in Las Vegas at Local 525. All our contractors are highly trained, possess the necessary HVAC technician skills, and have completed a rigorous five-year apprenticeship program or have the equivalent industry experience. Whether you are looking to supplement your existing workforce, expand your business operations, or are a residential, commercial, or industrial customer in need of an HVAC technician, let us connect you with quality professionals to provide the HVAC services you need. 

Find certified HVAC technicians through Local 525

Sources:

Five Most Important Skills Needed to Be an HVAC Technician. (2022).

HVACR Technicians: What Are They and What Do They Do? (2022). 

North American Technician Excellence.