How to Become an HVACR Controls Technician
The HVACR systems in most modern building are regulated by digital controllers, or building automation systems (BAS), that manage temperature, optimize energy usage and maintain the lifecycle of the system. And of course, specialized technicians are needed to install, maintain and troubleshoot BAS controls.
If you have a background in HVACR, learning how to become an HVACR controls technician might be the next step to a new career.
HVACR Controls Technician Career Outlook
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects opportunities for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers to grow at a much faster rate than overall job growth between now and 2028.
According to the BLS, growth in the HVACR field is driven by two factors: new construction and replacement of HVACR units. Technologies that increase energy efficiency, reduce pollution and help control building costs are expected to promote the upgrade and replacement of many HVACR units.
According to PayScale.com, HVACR controls technicians earn $25.74 per hour, on average. Top HVACR controls technicians make $37 per hour and many earn over $80,000 per year, including overtime and bonuses.
Finally, the BLS notes that because building owners rely on their HVACR systems and controls year-around and under any economic conditions, HVACR careers are among the most stable in the economy.
How to Learn HVACR Controls
Since HVACR controls combine technology with mechanical building systems, HVACR controls technicians require a background in computers, electronics and data management along with knowledge and experience in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems themselves.
For many technicians, HVACR control systems represent a specialized career track that extends their experience in HVACR into the highly technical control systems area.
In addition to HVACR knowledge and experience, HVACR control systems technicians require training in areas such as:
- Building Automation Systems (BAS)
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)
- Computer programming and networks
- Power supplies
- Control panels and circuits
- Sensors and the data they generate
- Data visualization and graphics methods
A comprehensive training program brings these diverse topics together around their application to HVACR and digital HVACR control systems.
Is HVACR Controls Technician Training Worth It?
Due to the technical nature of HVACR systems, Zippia.com notes that almost all HVACR technicians undergo formal training.
PayScale.com’s list of leading employers of HVACR control technicians includes organizations like Siemens, Johnson Controls and Honeywell, all well-established brands that hire highly-trained professionals.
For current HVACR technicians, training to become an HVACR control technician can represent an investment in personal and career development that leads directly to the technologies that contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Online HVACR Controls Technician Course
If you are a working HVACR technician or have an educational background in HVACR, adding a specialty in HVACR controls may be a great move for you. Over the course of six months, this 90-hour course will provide you with the concepts and skills to work as a controls technician in the dynamic HVACR industry.
Enroll in the 100% online HVAC/R Controls/Building Automation Systems course today!
Click the link below to learn more about our partner schools and financing options.
HVAC/R Controls/Building Automation Systems
6 Months | 90 Course Hours
Learn to install and test BAS, include mounting, power supplies, communication networks, input/output wiring, and wireless systems.
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