How to become a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers

Q: How do I become a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers?

The typical entry-level education is most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..

Q: How much does a heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers make?

The median pay in the United States is $61,010 a year (BLS OEWS May 2025).

Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.Typical entry-level education

$61,010Median pay a year

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..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.

What heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers do

Test electrical circuits or components for continuity, using electrical test equipment.
Repair or replace defective equipment, components, or wiring.
Lay out and connect electrical wiring between controls and equipment, according to wiring diagrams, using electrician's hand tools.
Estimate, order, pick up, deliver, and install materials and supplies needed to maintain equipment in good working condition.
Install, connect, or adjust thermostats, humidistats, or timers.
Comply with all applicable standards, policies, or procedures, such as safety procedures or the maintenance of a clean work area.

Skills that matter most

Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Speaking
Active Learning
Monitoring
Writing
Mathematics

Is heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 20% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

District of Columbia $84,390
Alaska $77,430
Illinois $77,410
Massachusetts $77,300
Connecticut $76,610

Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.