As an HVAC technician, you know that your skills are in high demand. After all, without your expertise, homes, and businesses would be left without heat in the winter and air conditioning in the summer. But did you know that certain skills can help you earn a higher salary? Here are top skills that can give your HVAC technician salary a huge boost:
1. Refrigeration Skills
Refrigeration is vital to many HVAC systems, so it’s no surprise that technicians with this skill earn a higher salary. On average, those with refrigeration skills earn 10% more than those without. If you want to boost your earnings, consider taking a course or two in refrigeration.
2. Commercial Experience
HVAC technicians with experience working on commercial systems tend to earn more than those with only residential systems experience. This is because commercial HVAC systems are often more complex and thus require a higher level of skill to work on. If you want to boost your salary, consider pursuing commercial HVAC work.
3. Certification
While not required, certification can go a long way in boosting your HVAC technician salary. Many employers are willing to pay more for technicians certified by a reputable organization, such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) or the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). If you’re not already certified, consider taking the necessary steps.
4. Energy Efficiency Skills
As energy costs continue to rise, more and more businesses and homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their energy consumption. As an HVAC technician, you can help them by suggesting energy-saving improvements to their HVAC system. Those with energy efficiency skills earn an average of 5% more than those without.
5. Troubleshooting skills
Troubleshooting is one of the most important skills for any HVAC technician. After all, when a system breaks down, it’s up to the technician to figure out what’s wrong and how to fix it. Those who are good at troubleshooting can earn a premium of 10% or more. If you want to boost your salary, ensure you’re good at troubleshooting.
6. Sales skills
While most HVAC technicians are focused on the technical aspects of their job, those with sales skills can earn a significant salary premium. On average, HVAC technicians with sales skills earn 15% more than those without. If you’re looking to boost your earnings, consider taking a course or two in sales.
7. Management skills
While not required, management skills can be a valuable asset for any HVAC technician. Those who can effectively manage their time and resources can earn a salary premium of 5%. If you’re looking to boost your earnings, consider taking a course or two in management.
8. Customer service skills
Customer service is important in any job, but it’s especially important for HVAC technicians. After all, they’re the ones who are typically dealing with customers on a day-to-day basis. Those with strong customer service skills can earn a salary premium of 5% or more. If you want to boost your earnings, consider taking a course or two in customer service.
If you want to earn a higher salary as an HVAC technician, you can do a few things. First, consider pursuing refrigeration skills, commercial experience, or certification. Those with energy efficiency, troubleshooting, sales, or management skills can also earn a premium.