If you work in the HVAC industry, you know there’s been an ongoing labor shortage. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the current HVAC technician shortage is at about 70,000 workers. Within the next four years, the BLS projects that number will rise to 115,000 workers.
Since the current workforce is equal to about 230,000 people, that means an increase of almost 50%!
In light of this labor shortage, many HVAC professionals are turning toward new models of HVAC company training, designed to onboard skilled workers as quickly as possible. One such model is online HVAC tech training.
Here’s what you need to know about HVAC company training, and why you might consider trying it.
What Skills Do New HVAC Techs Need for the Job?
The HVAC industry is growing more rapidly than ever before right now. Most HVAC business owners will see at least a 10% growth within the next year. With a growth rate this fast, it pays to consider what new HVAC techs need to know, and how best to deliver that information for them.
Here are a few critical skills HVAC techs need on the job:
1. A Deep Understanding of System Components
Heating and cooling systems utilize dozens of components. Good HVAC techs need to understand the parts and pieces of those components. They must also know how they work together to contribute to the overall functionality of the system.
2. System Design
While HVAC techs don’t need to know every detail of every system, they do need a strong understanding of the importance of installation and design where the system is concerned.
3. Efficiency Requirements
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has established strict energy efficiency standards for new appliances installed in homes today. HVAC techs need to know what these standards say about HVAC units, and how to ensure their installations remain compliant.
4. System Options
To provide the best possible service to clients, HVAC techs must understand the various system options available on the market today. From mini-splits to duct-free systems, HVAC techs need to understand these various technologies and how each will cater to a customer’s needs.
In addition to the considerations listed above, HVAC techs must also understand things like comfort controls, indoor air quality, and more.
With all that in mind, it’s easy to see why good HVAC company training is so critical.
How Online HVAC Training Helps
Online HVAC training can go a long way toward helping new HVAC techs get the skills they need to thrive in the industry. At Grandy & Associates, we believe in this mission so much that we’ve developed an 8-hour class designed to train and onboard new HVAC techs.
In this course, we’ll teach techs:
• How to understand both major and minor systems components.
• The importance of proper system installation and design.
• Pressing efficiency requirements and the crucial roles they play in the HVAC industry.
• Why IAQ is such an essential part of HVAC.
• Comfort controls, and why they’re so crucial to HVAC systems and installations.
• Why there are so many different HVAC systems choices, and the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Get Started with Effective HVAC Company Training
To cater to your company and your service techs, we offer two separate course options: a live, instructor-led online course and a self-paced version. These courses are developed to change your company and make closing the skills gap easier, and we want to make sure they’re as personalized and flexible as you need.
Ready to learn more about our HVAC company training or any of our other contractor training options? Contact us today!
