HVAC techs work in both residential and commercial settings, either as independent contractors or as employees. Their work schedule can vary depending on various factors. As such, you’re probably curious about how many hours HVAC techs work.
Table of Contents
HVAC techs work 40 hours a week on average. Their working hours can be longer during peak seasons or in locations with higher demand for HVAC services. On average, part-time HVAC technicians work shorter hours, about 15 to 30 hours a week.
In this article, I’ll talk about the typical work hours of HVAC technicians, including what they have to deal with in their daily schedules.
Average Weekly Work Schedule of HVAC Techs
Unlike other regular jobs, an HVAC tech’s schedule is variable. There are times when demand for the service is low, during which their working hours are shorter. Nonetheless, they might work more during peak seasons because of a higher demand for HVAC services.
On average, HVAC techs work 40 hours a week. However, they might also work on the weekends, which can extend their working hours. Peak cooling and heating seasons can also increase demand.
While the goal is to work 40 hours a week, the daily schedule can vary. Things may sometimes go differently than planned. For instance, some jobs might be more challenging and may require the technician to work more hours on one day and reduce their hours on the next day. An HVAC technician’s schedule can also depend on company policies.
It’s common for some technicians to work up to 60 hours a week. This is more likely the case for independent contractors than for company employees. It’s also more likely in busy locations.
Read: HVAC Air Purifier – What Is It For? How It Works? Common Problems?
Factor’s Affecting an HVAC Tech’s Work Hours
Experience/Position
Part-time HVAC techs may work 15 to 30 hours a week. They assist full-time technicians, and they may still be learning the ins and outs of the job. Hence, their hours may be shorter than their more experienced counterparts.
Meanwhile, those working full-time can have at least 40 hours on their schedule. It can even be longer as they often respond to emergency jobs outside their regular hours. They have expert knowledge and skills, so they are often called upon in situations where an immediate solution is necessary.
Read: HVAC Evaporator Coil Cleaning: All You Need To Know Before Cleaning
Have a Question? Ask HVAC Technician
Click here to use the chatbox to speak with one of our technicians.
No in-home service calls. No appointments.
Season
The busiest time for HVAC professionals is summer, so they work longer hours during this period. Winter isn’t far behind in terms of demand for HVAC services. These are the times when heating and cooling are more critical. Hence, it translates to more work.
Note that many people also think about preventive measures. For instance, some might schedule maintenance of their heating systems in the fall, just before winter hits. This way, their heaters and boilers can be ready before they need them most.
Location
Technicians who live in an area with a high demand for HVAC services may work longer hours. A labor shortage in a particular area may result in jobs that a select few must complete.
Locations with scorching hot and freezing cold weather can mean more work for HVAC professionals. In addition, areas with a high rate of construction might also translate to a higher HVAC demand, as new buildings may require HVAC systems to be installed in them.
According to Research and Markets, fast construction growth has been noted in the following states:
- Florida
- Georgia
- Washington
- California
- North Carolina
Therefore, HVAC techs residing in those states might have longer working hours because of a higher demand for their service. Still, this isn’t a given, as other factors can come into play, such as competition. The more competitive the HVAC industry is, the less work a technician may get.
Read: How Useful Is Seasonal Maintenance Of HVAC Units?
Reputation
Customers often believe that a reputable business provides more value. It drives more loyalty and creates a higher demand. Inevitably, people will consider hiring HVAC contractors with a good reputation, believing they can deliver better service than others.
The more reputable the HVAC company is, the longer the potential working hours of its technicians can be. The same principle applies to independent contractors. In contrast, new businesses or those less popular than their competitors might have shorter working hours because of minimal demand.
Unique Company Aspects
Those working in an HVAC company can work longer hours if the business lacks enough staff. The hours can become even longer when there is high demand. When there are fewer people to handle the influx of jobs, those currently employed may work longer hours.
The company may also have policies that can increase or decrease the working hours of HVAC techs. Some businesses might have more humane policies to prevent their employees from overworking, assigning them only realistic working hours.
Personal Preference
Some HVAC techs prefer working longer hours, particularly those who get paid by the hour or receive overtime pay.
Meanwhile, other technicians like to work shorter hours. This is usually the case for those who get paid a fixed fee, regardless of their work hours. Others who want to be more attentive to their families may also prefer shorter hours.
What Does an HVAC Tech Do Daily?
An HVAC tech’s daily life is unpredictable. Whether working as an independent contractor or an employee, one may never know the issues that will arise on a given day.
For instance, a technician might be scheduled for commercial HVAC cleaning and maintenance. During cleaning, the tech might notice a problem that requires immediate attention. Hence, the job now moves beyond cleaning to include a repair. It can result in longer work hours and possibly overtime.
When working in an HVAC repair company, a technician’s day can start anytime. Heating and cooling systems can break down at any point. Therefore, HVAC services can be required at any time, whether early in the morning or late at night.
On the other hand, HVAC techs working in construction companies may have a more definite schedule. This is especially true when the job requires installing HVAC systems. Their day can start and end at a definite time until they finish a specific project.
Typically, an employed HVAC tech’s work starts with going to the workplace and receiving a brief on the job for the day. They then head to the client, complete the job, and return to the office.
In contrast, self-employed contractors often wait for calls from their clients. They then schedule their work depending on the client’s request or the urgency of the job. Some may have other full-time jobs and do HVAC repair, installation, or maintenance only when they receive a request.
Just like everybody else, HVAC techs have to take a break from work. This is often at the personal discretion of the technician. Some, however, avoid taking breaks in order to finish their work for the day quickly.
Want to learn more about what happens in the daily life of HVAC techs? Watch the short video below:
Conclusion
HVAC techs work 40 hours a week, like most other jobs. However, their schedules can vary depending on certain factors, such as the season and their location, which can increase or decrease demand. Their work hours can also be shorter or longer depending on whether they work full-time or part-time.