Everyone dreams of a rewarding career path that guarantees a sufficient salary, job security, and growth opportunities. If you are a hands-on person with excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, consider becoming an electrician or an HVAC technician.
But are you stuck on the ideal career path to follow? Read on to discover the differences and similarities between HVAC technicians and electricians.
What are the Similarities and Differences between HVAC Technicians and Electricians?
The main differences between HVAC technicians and electricians are their job descriptions and duties. On the other hand, both careers share a few similarities, such as education and training requirements.
HVAC Vs. Electrician: Job Descriptions
HVAC Technician Job Description
An HVAC tech is an adept professional who installs, repairs, and maintains heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These systems control temperature and air quality in homes and business premises.
HVAC technicians must have mechanical abilities since they install, repair, and maintain cooling systems (like refrigerators), furnaces, and air conditioners. They should also have sufficient knowledge of how HVAC systems enhance air quality and regulate indoor temperature and humidity levels, ensuring that occupants are comfortable. In addition, HVAC techs must understand blueprints, building codes, and architectural diagrams.
Electrician Job Description
An electrician is a skilled professional who installs, repairs, and maintains electrical systems and equipment. Electricians carry out the wiring in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, ensuring that power flows seamlessly to fixtures and electrical equipment. Therefore, an electrician must understand electrical regulation requirements, blueprints, building codes, and maps.
HVAC Vs. Electrician: Job Duties
HVAC technicians and electricians have specific job duties that seem to overlap. But they’re distinct and depend on the professionals’ job descriptions.
HVAC techs have various job duties. They:
- Install, test, and clean HVAC systems
- Troubleshoot HVAC systems, repair or replace defective units
- Connect low-voltage electric wires and components in HVAC systems
- Balance HVAC systems and adjust systems control
- Discuss systems, equipment, technologies, and problems with customers
- Recommend routine maintenance to help the system run better.
- Record and keep installation and testing records
- Maintain HVAC systems by replacing filters, cleaning air ducts, and refilling refrigerants
- Sell equipment and (or) future service contracts
On the other hand, an electrician has the following job duties:
- Reading technical and wiring diagrams, including blueprints
- Installing systems for control and light systems
- Inspecting and maintaining electrical components, such as generators and electrical systems
- Repairing old wiring systems, equipment, and units in buildings
- Troubleshooting and repairing electrical malfunctions
- Learning and adhering to state and local regulations based on the national electrical code
HVAC Vs. Electrician: School Requirements and Training
HVAC techs and electricians have similar training and school requirements. In most states, you need a high school diploma or GED and post-secondary training to become an HVAC technician or an electrician. In addition, many states require HVAC techs and electricians to obtain certification or licensure to practice as skilled professionals.
But that doesn’t mean that you can’t dive into the two careers if you’ve not earned a high school diploma. Some vocational schools allow interested individuals to enroll in training programs as they work toward obtaining high school diplomas. These programs may take 10 to 24 months.
You can also opt for an apprenticeship program if enrolling in a trade school isn’t appealing to you. But this might take longer, as finding a willing professional to guide you through the journey is challenging.
HVAC Vs. Electrician: Salary Ranges
Electricians earn almost similar salaries as HVAC technicians. The average salary of an electrician in the US is $26.78 per hour. However, this wage also depends on experience, ranging from $25.20 to $31.10.
Here’s the salary range for an electrician depending on the experience level:
- Beginner level – $25.14 to $25.20
- Mid-level – $29.25
- Senior level – $31.10
On the other hand, the average wage for an HVAC tech is $26.06 per hour. The salary range for HVAC technicians based on experience is as follows:
- Beginner level – $23.91 to $24.15
- Mid-level – $29.72
- Senior level – $35.50
HVAC Vs. Electrician: Work Environment
HVAC techs and electricians work in almost similar conditions.
However, HVAC technicians spend most of their time indoors (in confined spaces) but can be required to complete some tasks outdoors. They also work in different areas, moving from one home or commercial building to another. And they have to answer to on-call hours and overtime, especially in extreme weather conditions.
Electricians work outdoors and indoors, moving from one job site to another. Hence, they’re often exposed to varying working conditions.
Both HVAC techs and electricians work in potentially dangerous job sites. For instance, HVAC techs are exposed to harmful chemicals and substances. Electricians are also vulnerable to electric shocks, accidents, and injuries that could be fatal. So, both careers have safety protocols.
Which is the Better Career; HVAC Technician or Electrician?
Being an HVAC tech or electrician opens doors to numerous career opportunities. And both jobs have their pros and cons. The job outlook for HVAC technicians and electricians is expected to grow by 4% and 8% between 2019 and 2029. So, you can choose either path, depending on your preferences. Read more here to compare HVAC vs welding careers.
