Good HVAC Techs DISAPPEARING! Here's Why!

[@chesterlamar7119]

The nerve of a man wanting more money,vacation and benefits. Most of these owners take more vacations then anybody and get upset when you need to take off. This industry has become very greedy. SALE SALE SALE!!

[@NewHVACGuide]

I think that’s why you’re going to see more techs become business owners 🙂

[@DigitalRecollections]

But at the same time some people are Delusional about what they’re worth..it’s like listing a 2001 civic with 200k miles for 30k and putting NO LOWBALLER, I KNOW WHAT I GOT

[@obama7325]

@@DigitalRecollections bro i do everything im supposed to do i sell a lot and i still make shit i barely afford my rent lol im only still working because knowing whag i charge clients for stuff if i make even a small business ill make a ton.

[@anthonyspadafora1384]

@@NewHVACGuide Lets face it, when you have employees you now have paid holidays, sick days, workmen comp, health insurance, matching 401ks and the list goes on. When you are alone, there is none of that. My wife works at a local courthouse so I am on her Health insurance. I have several friends that we cover for each other when we vacation or are sick. I have had several employees in my life and honestly it is a lot of stress, In this business your employees are not like Amazon employees, they are much closer. You go to their weddings and parties. The stress of keeping everyone busy so they don't get laid off is a lot more stress, for me anyway. So working alone for me is a big stress relief. I can be much choosier . If I bid a job in the suburbs with a driveway right up to the garage with the unit on the same level and a supply house is only a half mile away. I will get that job, the larger shops will never beat me. But then when I worked in Commercial, Industrial I knew mechanics that were just mechanical geniuses but you could never let these guys out in public much send them to a residential customers home. LOL Like the old saying...You can dress them up but you can't take them out.

[@hvacrnortheastern2110]

Why complain go get other job we aren’t sales people we are in high demand highly payed nowadays in any trades .

[@erichorton1440]

What is your definition of over priced? My company charges service calls $100 dollars an hour. On top of that, they make a lot of money on the parts they replace or fix. I did the math and my company really makes about $180-$250 an hour for an average week per employee. Yes, I know there is taxes and overhead. Is $50 an hour really a lot of money to ask for? Really? Taxes are mostly based on profit. The more they pay employees, the less they also pay in taxes. Companies expect to make all this money and get offended when the employee wants a good wage... that's why people start their own company... my brother started his own and within 5 years, he bought a big house, 3 cars, a boat, a camper, etc.... the secret is to pay good and make DECENT money off a LOT of workers; thus, growing a huge company and keeping the good workers from quiting. Stop this entitlement over employees. They deserve an awesome life too.

[@NewHVACGuide]

You definitely have a lot to learn about payroll taxes. However, I understand what you’re saying and agree that employees deserve an awesome life!

[@isscotty2hotty]

I was an hvac tech working for a large company, and I really wanted to make it work. I finally became frustrated enough to leave it behind as i was not being trained on equipment that I was being asked to work on, specifically heat pumps. I had learned the cooling side on my own, from hooking up my gauges to understanding su cooking and superheat etcetera, and beyond. I drew the line on mini splits and heat pumps. I didn’t want to cause more problems due to my lack of knowledge, and have a homeowner have to replace systems because of it. And, i was being asked to train new techs coming into the field to do what i was not comfortable doing. I had asked for help and had been up front with my lack of knowledge with these systems. On top of that, the lack of communication and support was devastating to me, and when asking for help, it was always apparent that doing so only aggravated management. And finally, being a tech is now synonymous with being a salesperson. Selling equipment, selling parts, selling contracts, all the while being expected to keep up the pace with the maintenance and service calls. The only time I heard the words “you are a great tech and great techs are hard to find” was during my exit interview, followed by the words “if you ever change your mind come back”. It’s not for everybody, and not everybody is for it, but, if the industry wants to find and keep good techs, the industry is going to have to change its approach to how they treat their techs and what they expect of them. Great techs may not be great salespeople, and that should be perfectly fine. Nobody asks a great salesperson to be a great tech, if they did, there would be a shortage of great salespeople too. And speaking from a technicians standpoint, it’s sad when a tech who really wants to do the job and learn the trade feels more pressure to get out than to stay in it, and where it’s sad for the hvac companies, it’s just as sad if not more sad for the techs who give up on doing it. Just my experience.

[@jdms1eeper]

I 1000% agree with you! It’s a shame that I have every NATE, cert and have a masters with 20 years experience, making as much or less than commission sales techs doing the trade 2-6 years. I would have been in a better position, not learning everything and caring and missing time with my family by just starting as a salesman instead

[@staymelting833]

I agree with everything you said! At this point I’m fed up, what did you switch too if you don’t mind me asking?

[@isscotty2hotty]

@@staymelting833 I switched to a position working for a manufacturing company fixing machinery, it’s better than what was happening with the hvac work I was doing, though I don’t know if I’ll stay. Really hoping to find work I love doing

[@adamlamb1441]

I've been an HVAC tech for 13 years and experienced a similar situation you described above. I recently switched to a smaller company started up by some former coworkers and it's been so much better.

[@isscotty2hotty]

@@adamlamb1441 that is awesome!

[@Larrye123]

I started hvac school during the lockdown. My neighbor kid started a CNC program at the same time. Two years later I'm half way through the 12 classes and unemployed. My neighbor kid is making $25 an hour plus overtime. I asked for $16 an hour but now I'm ready to take $13 an hour. When I apply for apprentice I'm expected to not only have ALL 5 certifications from 12 or 15 classes but NATE and additional certifications AND experience. I'll be lucky to make $50k to $60k with overtime working for someone else in 5 years. My neighbor kid says he can make $60k now with overtime. Do your research before you pick a career. This is a low paying one for most people and it destroys your back and knees. The only thing paying less is carpenter. I should have chosen plumbing or electrical. Twice the money or more.

[@Earlvis]

I’ve been at it 33 years, mostly commercial/industrial. I’m 52 and my company has not sent me to one school in 5 years. I’ve had two raises in nine years of service with this company. I travel all the time and I provide in-house training for our techs. If I hit the numbers, they can all kiss my ass.

[@panamacitybeachbum]

Yep..all about the Benjamins.

[@SJJtech]

In trade school now. After watching this, I appreciate my instructor even more. He drilled wiring schematics into us within the 1st couple months. I can wire a thermostat easily and I’m not even in my second semester. Thanks Delco

[@NewHVACGuide]

Nice!

[@HVACNoLife]

You have no idea how many people in hvac/ refrigeration can't read a diagram. Just being able to puts you a step above everyone else. Next step is to learn how to trace when you don't have one. Continue to progress. We need people like you.

[@SJJtech]

@@HVACNoLife yes I’m learning that the trade school or apprenticeship program you choose really makes a big difference. I lucked up and chose a really good one.

[@loganmmordh]

Graduated trade school and 10 months into residential HVAC. What I wished I did more in trade school was brazing, I brazed a lot in trade school, so I was ahead of other helpers, but if you can practice brazing in tight areas. That’s a hard skill

[@ohiopat]

I agree with everything you said. The one thing I would add is that for about the last 15 years the kids entering the workforce not only need trained on HVAC but also weren't familiar with basic tools. I grew up working on my bicycle and stuff. These people played video games and never picked up a screwdriver except to change batteries in something.

[@in-textbaptist4947]

In a generation where fathers stepped out, and mothers used screens to raise their kids, can you blame them?

[@xalfonzx2648]

Not all of us gamers are worthless. Us gamers make the best service techs due to problem solving or objective drive inside video games. Currently I do both install and service at my company. I grew up playing Xbox and Nintendo. Not all graduates are good even with army backgrounds. Just saying.

[@javencronin6503]

I am who you are talking about, I get what ur saying but quit with the generalizing, a lot of us pick shit up very quickly if taught correctly. Took me very little time to get my shit together with little knowledge about the trade

[@user-te3qq1rb7u]

That's a pretty interesting point I haven't thought much about but makes a lot of sense now that you bring it up. I have noticed that quite a bit as well. I always helped my dad work on cars and stuff around the house as a kid and then worked on my bikes, ATV's, and eventually Jeep and trucks as I became a teenager. I had a really solid mechanical aptitude entering the trade even though I had close to zero knowledge of the technical aspects of HVAC. It becomes incredibly daunting to teach a fresh apprentice field skills when they can barely figure out how to use a wrench.

[@ohiopat]

@@javencronin6503 After someone showed you which end of the screwdriver to use

[@dkat1108]

Being in the printing trade for really high-end graphics for 40+ yrs there is no better learning than "on the job" with a journeyman that's really good professional. I went threw an 4 yr apprenticeship + 2 yrs of trade school and bar none I learned most from a journeyman that was the best in the bay area. He taught me the tricks of the trade super cool guy everything came so easy for him I will never forget my time with him.

[@HVACNoLife]

I was making no money in residential. Constant sales mentality. Went commercial refrigeration. Make more money then I know what to do with. If you are not afraid of working and learning then go commercial. Best decision I ever made.

[@Paco1994k]

By commercial refrigeration you mean fixing up convenience store and Super Market coolers?

[@ronalddekok871]

I'm an HVAC tech and it comprises more than just one trade and I expect to be paid for my skills and experience. I've had my fair share of crappy clients. And I have clients who treat me really well, so if people don't like my price, they can go elsewhere. A lot of my work comes from stuff that's been 'fixed' elsewhere and by the DIY crowd. There are farmers on my client list with cold rooms and when they call me with a problem, I help them check the basics over the phone and sometimes the problem is someone fiddled with the thermostat. That way, I don't have to go out, and the farmer isn't charged PLUS he feels he has a part to play. If you can't afford the technician, you can't afford the technology.

[@ezequielcrespo7046]

When I started I got paid very little, every tech didn't want me because they had to teach me. I worked 2 years non stop not a fricking day off was never absent used my own paid car to do jobs as well as bought my own tools. Spent $6,000 out of my own pockets that I didn't have just to do my part. at the end of it the company was supposed to pay me a $5,000 bonus for my hard work yet they only have me $1,500 and kept the rest. Gave work vans to those who didn't do shit didn't help me out who spent 2 years non stop helping them out working 7 days a week doing between 10 to 17 hours shifts a day doing installs in a high demand company did I learn yes but for what they didn't want to pay. It's not that they are asking unrealistic money it has to do that if rent for a 1 bedroom is $1400 I'm not gonna ask you for $10 hour I've done my part now it's your turn as an employer to pay me a living wage if you want a dedicated employee like me stop blaming the new upcoming techs for your greed it's not our fault you want to be a millionaire in 1 year of opening a business. You charge an average of like $8,500 for a residential system install and you have me do all the install and at most want to pay me $20 an hour me doing everything hell no.

[@BigWilldeClue83]

100% great informational video! I am a HVAC/R technician and installer, I agree with it being hard to find good workers but it’s also hard to find a good company to work for. I’m out of the St.Louis Missouri area and I’m lucky to be with a great employer who also pays well with benefits but I also experienced the nightmare companies as well. Keep up with the great videos

[@cozyairhvac9676]

I agree with you 100%. These old timers don’t want to do this anymore. It’s wear and tear on your body and mind. Most of them are realizing that life isn’t all about work, work, work. I came to a realization of this very quickly as I observed these old timers as an apprentice. I appreciate everything I learned from each and every one of them, but the main lesson was longevity. As techs we need to work smarter and protect our body more than anything. Our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit and we must protect it at all cost. As young business owners we need to set an example to these youth and influence them to pursue our trade. They are being influenced by pure evil and it can’t be any more clearer, especially with what is happening today.

[@weslindsey5909]

You lost me on this one.

[@cozyairhvac9676]

@@weslindsey5909 its okay. Not everyone understands.

[@JAWmankato]

You’re a rather arrogant person. I’ve been doing this shop for 40 years and bet I can run circles around you any day.

[@cozyairhvac9676]

@@JAWmankato brother I’m sorry you feel that way. In no way shape or form was that my intention. I would expect you to run circles from someone who’s got 20+ years on me. I’m talking the ones who can’t run circles anymore. Give me the same amount of time and experience and I bet I’d run more circles than you’d ever even dream of.

[@mrbrightside473]

I’m considering leaving HVAC behind, really wanted to make it a career. The work life balance seems hard to manage and working in machine shops before starting at $20 an hour but in HVAC starting at 17$ and not advancing is killing my drive

[@NewHVACGuide]

I think we've all had that conversation internally a time or two.

[@timrob0420]

Dude, stick with it. I’ve been doing it 6 years, last year I made over $130k. In this trade you get out what you put in. Study on your own and take learning in your own hands and you will go far. Keep grinding man.

[@matthewshaw4475]

Man we all started at low wage, I am a service manager now after 18 years of the trenches, I moved a few companies to make better wages and I learned in the field. You are never gonna make 25 to 30 at the start, you need the years.

[@scottm3552]

@@matthewshaw4475 I started at $25 n hour and asking for $5 dollar raise and am going to get it. Here in Colorado.

[@EA91HVAC]

Stick to it I hit six figs as 3rd year apprentice in a 5 yr apprenticeship program through union lol.

[@billderby1527]

Problem is also now days companies are being bought out and are not looking for techs they are training sales folks. Real techs are sent on warranties calls, while sales techs are sent on customers with older equipment with problems.

[@TheGhettoLobster]

This is exactly what happened to the company I used to work for

[@billderby1527]

@@TheGhettoLobster Same here. In the Dallas area this company has purchased at least 4 mid size old established companies. The very large parent company is out of Louisiana. Sale, sales, sales is what they want from techs.

[@kevinfinnerty3754]

I am what they call at my company a “warranty tech” and everyone else gets to sell new units all day and stay clean. It’s a joke what this trade has come to

[@billderby1527]

@@kevinfinnerty3754 At least you're not living your life ripping off people especially the elderly

[@timcarson1645]

Is there a problem with that? Why should a customer have a inefficient unit, jacking up their utility bill, throwing money at a furnace to replace parts when we all know another part is going to break on a older unit. Why, so they can say my unit is 20 years old and I’ve replaced everything.? You’ll save money in the long run by replacing, getting a great warranty and adding value to your home. Replacement is fine I do t understand why everyone wants to keep fixing a old unit, is it ego?

[@MrPONCHO467]

I've honestly worked with several senior techs who refused to share their knowledge with upcoming techs. For fear they would be replaced. Now some have passed away other's retired and never passed on their knowledge. The company that I currently work for has no interest in developing apprentices.

[@fly5027]

Stay in that textbook.. focus on the refrigeration cycle understanding it is key, then troubleshooting units.. whenever you in the field... Follow those wires in the unit look at where they come from and where they're connecting to... Your textbook will give u the troubleshooting steps if your senior techs won't

[@Jack-bs7cy]

Did maintenance showed the other maintenance guy how to get his EPA. Got demoted almost immediately. When I left the company the other maintenance guy called me to ask if the large line was supposed to be hot or cold.

[@hyrumbliss5811]

Then they have no interest in growing their business.

[@hyrumbliss5811]

The plumbing aspects of HVAC are pretty intricate as well. That is one trade that incorporates aspects of all the main trades. Electrical, plumbing, carpentry and the refrigeration technology.

[@ericmcdaniel4029]

@@hyrumbliss5811 exactly

[@TheOneshot78]

Employers are expecting these young guys to know stuff. But they don't want to train this guys. I love training people.

[@NewHVACGuide]

It’s fun to watch someone who trained grow as a pro

[@Brattonio]

Biggest problem in trades is lack of companies who allow you to learn from senior techs. 4 Companies I've been through so far and each one has never offered training, shadowing or support of any kind. Told them directly I wasn't trained on a certain piece of equipment, each time they answer , " I was thrown in the deep end myself.. just use the internet". When it takes longer to diagnose they turn around, " why the hell did it take you so long, do you not know this stuff!?" ... Like I told you a few hours ago...

[@scottm3552]

Comapanies want their techs smart enough to do the job but dumb enough to not exceed.

[@sloppyjonuts9162]

Same I gave plumbing a shot. Horrible experience both 2 companies the second place I worked at I had to drive a guy around he had no license & DUI & just got out of prison..I learned a few simple things & to be honest it’s not worth it ..I’m thinking hvac will be better but I doubt it

[@gregboy5944]

Finally someone said it 👍

[@MikeBarbarossa]

I'm 40 years experienced with state master's lisence . Was trying to find HVAC work part time, for semi-retirement. Endless companies wanted to hire me full time overtime with truck, hit the streets and knock out service orders. No one was interested in part time. They all want the perfectly trained and capable tech full time ready to go or nothing

[@mikep5701]

Griffin, I think you hit the nail on the head with this video. I'm a retired Boomer after 40 years in the industry. Towards the end of my run I was tech support for our field techs. I saw the drop off in folks that did not want to turn wrenches but wanted to press buttons in a comfortable environment. They wilted in the Louisiana heat. I've gone from pneumatics to DOS and relays to solid state and had to relearn several new refrigerants during that time with centrifugal and large commercial units. Started out in residential. I see the trade is in good hands with folks like you out there.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Thanks pal! Can you send me an email? I’d love to pick your brain on some of the things you’ve seen in your career!

[@gilroy9282]

I get payed as an engineer but rely mostly on my hvac exp/self taught knowledge. Easily 45/50 dollars an hour. If I were to get on as a full tech running a truck I’d have to beg for 25 an hour. Marketplace is broken

[@lammaking333]

The biggest flaw in this industry is the lack of flag hours. Auto mechanics in the US typically get paid flag hours per job. So a job bid for 4 hours , if they finish in 2, they get all 4 hours. Makes it easy to make lots of hours and great pay and motivates you to work hard and complete jobs time effective. This should be industry standard. If you make hourly company pay and no commission , and a large compressor changeout on an intellipak is bid for 8 hours , and I finish in 5 , I only get 5 hours pay, and then have to hurry and load all my shit up and go bust my ass up and down roofs running another call just to make my 8 hours for the day. At that point , I might as well sit on my ass for that last 3 hours and milk the clock so I’m not getting taken advantage of. Either way the job is already paid for and approved and the company is making 8 hours labor regardless of wether or not you finish early. Hvac companies like to take advantage of this and run good techs into the ground. Most great techs around my area wind up taking more laid back positions or going Union to escape from this.

[@marinermerrill3884]

I don’t agree with that at all. Pay structured like that encourage shotty work and no quality in workmanship. Just saying.

[@adamlamb1441]

I am union and have dealt with that exact type of management. They would keep the quoted hours secret or tell you it was quoted for 5 when it was really quoted for 8. With a better company now that has transparency and motives other than greed.

[@octaviocarrillo5954]

I worked in automotive for 10 years and the flat rate/flagging pay system is what most technician hate about the auto industry. It’s not ideal long term and only benefits the lower tier techs/parts changers and the company. If you’re a knowledgeable technician you’ll get screwed left and right while the parts changers are making good money doing repetitive gravy work while simultaneously damaging their body trying to beat “book time”. I now work in the material handling industry and I’ve learned there is no perfect pay structure. I loved working in automotive but would never go back to flagging hours. Most people that haven’t worked in that system don’t realize that the hrs keep getting cut back and aren’t the comfy hrs you are used to getting in other industries.

[@marinermerrill3884]

@@octaviocarrillo5954 exactly. Techs end up hurting themselves and rushing to get the job done. What they don’t realize is that when guys rush and get faster and faster companies start trimming down the hours on itemized jobs over time. Pretty soon that 8 hour job that took you 5 working at a comfortable pace that you now get done in 4 hours to get the 8 hours of pay that company will learn to just bid 4 hours so you have to rush every single time just to barely break even. My first job as a plumber was peicerate work like this and it was killer on my body.

[@wisenber]

@@octaviocarrillo5954 " It’s not ideal long term and only benefits the lower tier techs/parts changers and the company." The experienced techs I know seem to suggest otherwise, especially the ones that do transmission work.

[@eliorios9420]

I am one of those great technicians and now that I’ve been doing this for so long and do it very well you’re exactly right if they don’t want to pay they’re pretty much done for I don’t wanna hear from them.. But 95% of my customers are not only happy with me. They are in love with me because I deliver and educate.

[@oldmankael]

I'm in a trade school right now. While I am learning a lot of new things about the trade, most of the practice units that we have are broken. Our professor stated that the school does not want to pay to get those units fixed. Sometimes I just feel that I am just wasting my time and money attending this school. Also, I want to work for an HVAC company, but sadly the companies that I applied to are requiring at least a year of schooling.

[@loganmmordh]

How are you applying? I did zip and indeed with minimal success Then I Google mapped hvac contractor and went to each company’s email and applied directly

[@loganmmordh]

Much better results with the second one

[@reality4434]

To all hvac techs: avoid Apartment Maintenance. You will be treated as someone desperate for a job. You will not be recognized for the hvac skills you have, though you will be required to have EPA certification and sometimes an HVAC license! You may have 10 years experience in HAC, but an 18 yr old girl in the office with no experience, a leasing agent, anyone in the office will be your BOSS!! You will be treated as a "field worker", because those in the office "work with their brains" instead of their hands. Every stuffed shirt from corporate looks down on you, "if you could do better you wouldn"t be here. You will be on call 7 days a week. You must be required to know approximately 30 skills including plumbing, carpentry, tile work, make ready, painting, glass work, high voltage area lighting, electrical, appliance repair of all kinds and you will be paid terribly, starting at 12 hr! DON'T DO IT. Your 20 year old manager will make more than twice what you do!!, with no skills whatsoever!

[@NewHVACGuide]

Hey pal. Send me an email with your contact info. I’ve got a question for ya 🙂

[@jward860]

I moved from mechanical to controls, and all of this you mentioned is the reason I left the mechanical side. The building automation side you get good pay, benefits, and work is way less physical.

[@KSWKREW]

I also got a job in Building Automations straight out of community college without any experience in mechanical hvac other than what I had learned in school. I agree with all your points , and would add it is the best of both worlds as far as being hands on with hvac systems along with a fair amount of computer work.

[@alanlacosse8850]

Any advice on how to get into that side part of the industry and any learning resources? That's where I wanna be eventually

[@YankeesFan74]

doing this for 9 yrs now i can honestly say trade school was a waste of time. i started in the field greener than green and didn't go to hvac school until 2 yrs later. i learned more working in the field those first 2 yrs than i did in the 2 yrs in the classroom. One of the biggest issues i see with new hires is a lot of companies expect to be able to instantly throw them in a van and them be able to do any job they are given which is very intimidating IMO. You see a lot of guys who are afraid to work on stuff because the expectation is you better not mess it up. Sometimes the best way to learn stuff is to do it wrong the first time but companies don't see that and either want to admonish you in front of the other employees/customer or even just fire you. There is no allowance for a learning curve anymore everyone is expected to come straight from trade school with the knowledge of a 20 yr. field tech. Most companies won't even interview you if you don't have a minimum of 5 yrs in the field. So I don't see the problem as there isn't enough techs it's companies have to high of a standard during the hiring process and don't want to spend the time properly training these guys the right way.

[@BabyKMoney]

Yup I started super green 3 and a half years ago. Now I’m lead install and make 28 an hour and $125 per install so on average I’m about $33-$39 an hour and I’m 22! and definitely worth it. My installs are top notch, I’m young, knowledgeable, and willing to get better and learn more!

[@hgn1832]

@@BabyKMoney what state ?

[@BabyKMoney]

@@hgn1832 Maryland

[@timking4277]

5 month ago, I was quoted an reluctantly paid $500 to have a capacitor replaced on my single story roof top unit, which took about 10 minutes. I have 2 - 2.5 ton units and both are the original units, 25 years old. The tech also told me that the condenser motor needs to be replaced because it was leaking oil. He just ball parked the condenser replacement at well over a $1,000. To me this is highway robbery and and not looking to get screwed again so I started to learn about HVAC. I only need to learn about my units. So far, I have replaced all the capacitors and the condenser fan motor. Your right with the prices going higher and higher its now to my benefit to learn to do things myself and when I do it myself I know it wasn't just slapped together, I take my time and do a good job. I live in Las Vegas NV and the company was Johnny on the Spot. It's one thing to find a good HVAC Tech, but then to find one that doesn't screw you; I'm not sure the two coexist in my area.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Hi Tim. How much money do you think you have saved by doing everything yourself?

[@SonsofIssac]

I started working for a commercial refrigeration company in 2016 while attending tech school at night. Learned absolutely nothing in school. It was all experience. The main problem I experienced early on was experienced techs not willing to teach newbs.

[@Alex-jo2oi]

I feel like it really depends on who you learn from... I felt like this with numerous techs and then one day it clicked with a tech. I was picking up everything that they were putting down.

[@Alex-jo2oi]

@@scottm3552 that’s true af

[@scottm3552]

@@Alex-jo2oi I deleted and posted an actual comment check it out.

[@Alex-jo2oi]

@@scottm3552 seen. All true. Nobody is book smart enough to grasp the theories behind it. They just replace parts without realizing or figuring out the root cause of the issue. It’s really not that hard. People are just stupid.

[@scottm3552]

@@Alex-jo2oi and they want to pay these little fck tards more than me, i asked for a raise within first 8 months of working for a company because im the only qualified tech even working there lol. im sick of it

[@OUTDOORS55]

I hear a lot of complaining in the comments about greedy companies and everyone deserves to be paid, well, heres the facts. No one deserves anything, and you are not owed anything, or entitled to anything. Running a company in the trades is MUCH more costly than people think. Insurance, licensing, workers comp, benefits, accounting, vehicle costs, shop/office costs, invoices, taxes etc. all have a cost. No, your boss isn't making $100hr on your labor like some comments mention. Also, a lot of owners are operating on credit. Living a lifestyle over what they can actually afford. Ive seen this time and time again. Around here we are on a 5-10 year cycle. Very rarely are trades businesses in business for more than 10 years simply because of poor money management, and living lifestyles they can maintain. There's really only one way to make good money in the trades. Which is to start your own business and stay out of debt. Starting out learn all you can, get licensed and do your own stuff. You wont make good money working in a small business because there's nowhere to go, your boss is the owner. In a larger company realize that its 99% likely it is being run on a razor line budget. All they will care about is trying to collect money from customers to pay their investors. Ive seen investors money spent on vacations, cars houses and seen the huge lawsuits that ensued. Be very careful if you work for a big company as everything isn't always as it seems. If just starting out, learn all you can and if you are really interested in making more money start your own business. Unfortunately this is just where we are in the trades. Figure out the game and play it.

[@racegrubb2152]

Been HVAC for 16 years and just got out the field to work on CNC machines. This trade is a greedy joke, equipment is low quality, trane sucks, the business owners are greedy. And the good techs should be paid better, take care of your employees, it's a high demand speciality it's not mowing fucking grass. A good experienced tech wanting 30 to 35 an hour is not too much to ask. Also the entitlement of many of the customers is disgusting, sorry can't get to everybody at once people, use your dam brain and have a backup like a window unit or two until we can get there. Yes the home owner has to pay, if you don't like it, learn how to do it your dam self. So glad to be out the field. Much happier now. Also don't miss having to be a folded up pretzel to work on a unit that is in a stupid place where it's almost not serviceable.

[@lindafoster471]

I'm a 69 year old woman, an artist no less, trying to understand something about HVAC systems before I choose a contractor. Lots of expletives are going through my mind right now as I realize how complex this stuff is. What chance do I have of knowing enough to know enough. But here's the thing. Just listening to all these youtube guys - this guy in particular - and reading the threads from all of you does fill in some gaps. At least I have some vocabulary, and a few questions to ask, and the key red flags. Thanks to you all -

[@jamescordes8673]

Problem with my state is the min wage for a licensed tech has not gone up yet min wage hit $15. So, trying to convince a kid to start in a trade for $16 an hour vs flip burgers for $15 an hour you can see why they don’t get to the trades. At least where I live.

[@robertlyman9789]

I have thinking that too for a long time! Not to mention those that don’t wanna work at all

[@bill944]

Most of the guys I've seen coming in to the industry couldn't find their butt with both hands and a map, absolutely clueless and no common sense and all of them over rate themselves just to prove they aren't what they advertised. So disappointing! As for as fixing DYI stuff, won't touch it. You'll always be the bad guy because of the price you'll charge. Did it once and the guy guy cried about it after he was quoted and the work was done saying "well, it only costs this much for me to buy it". The response is, and now it's not working and I have to fix the mistakes you made so if you want to save the money then learn to fix it. No problem with me, my AC works great!

[@weslindsey5909]

I own a small hvac mini split buisness and its basically me, my mentor, and my best friend. Everytime I tried to expand wasnt worth the hassle. I was working more making less. So many of these big companies charge like 5k to 10k more than me and do shitty job. I get all my work from word of mouth. Ive had to give a few customers their money back for being assholes. I got enough work to be able to be picky at this point.

[@suzgabverdugo933]

I was the untitled supervisor, I cleaned up everyone’s mess in new construction. Made sure we passed inspection and darling with city and county inspectors. Did tech and repair work. Sheet metal. Installs of all types. I left because I couldn’t get more than 19.00 a hour. No thanks. When I left it took 9 guys to do my job. Now the company lost three major contracts with builders.

[@wildtill9]

My thoughts - former chiller tech, trade is an interesting combination of gritty "meat and potato's" work where physical strength is needed combined with technical knowledge where knowing how to navigate thru the programs on your laptop is a must This combo is not easily found as those who do the grunt work often do not want to learn the tech side, while those who can whiz thru a computer program do not want to pick up anything heavy

[@hosocat1410]

Spot on comments. I am one of those who just does not want to hassle with employees. We have raised an entire generation to resent criticism and advice and avoid any kind of labor. Why should I carry them? It's not worth it. I make enough for myself, and that's probably the level I will stay at.

[@NewHVACGuide]

I have a friend who intentionally is staying small. His margins are good and has less stress

[@bill944]

Can't say that I blame you. I'm a technician, not a babysitter.

[@lanift3361]

I speak from experience, here’s the fact 1. Companies don’t want to hire inexperienced people this lead to a gap in age and experience of techs. This left the industry fill with tech on the way out with no replacement because companies didn’t want to train anyone. 2.pay! The pay over the years hasn’t increase enough where it’s worth it now a days an Hvac apprentice make as much as a Starbucks employee. Before I lend my first job I been on hundreds of interviews and they all like me but all said the same thing, we’re looking for someone with experience After I got experience and was look for a new job they all said the same things again, We can’t pay you that much, then a few months to a year later they reach back out asking me am I’m still look for a job? No! The pay compared to cost of isn’t as good as they say. Then you have these companies with their toxic micro management philosophy And no matter how bad it gets they won’t change direction until they’re under staff due to tech leaving because of their policies How many companies ask techs how happy are they working here?

[@MrToppDeck]

I'm soooo glad i found this video. I'm currently in Trade school for HVAC and i graduate next year August. I'm very worried because we don't get a lot of lab time in my school and the professors are constantly rushing us through courses and everything, whenever i tell them too slow down, I'm always made fun of and everything but I don't care, i want this career and I'm trying to be the best technician possible. My GPA is currently very high but i know that doesn't matter because my experience level is very low. And its not like I'm not willing to do the work, I just never get the opportunity to do the work at school. i was thinking of trying to get a part time job to get some in field experience but unfortunately most companies here in Maryland want experienced guys or HVAC Masters. Also, its hard to work with my schedule currently because I'm still working a full time job on top of school. I'm very worried when i graduate that i wont get a opportunity to work or at least hold a job long enough to grow as a technician because I don't know a lot in the field. I'm just hoping when I do find a job, that I find a company or guy, is willing to work me and understand that the school didn't get me in the lab a lot to practice but i am willing to learn and work hard. It just sucks like you said because I took out loans for this shit and I feel like my money is going down the drain because i need more experience while I'm here in school so i can ask questions and stuff. I just found your page today and you just got a new subscriber, i don't know if your going to see this, but if you do, please any advice to me. I'm 33 if that matters.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Hey pal. This video might help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZqiUhaGue5WGhtU

[@bill944]

No matter how well you do in school it just prepares you to be able to make heads or tales out of what's happening in the field. I graduated with a perfect GPA at the top of my class and was constantly doing research when I got off of work and on the weekends. Always ask questions, read installation manuals for furnaces, A/Cs, thermostats, anything! Knowledge is power and gives you confidence. Customers can smell the lack of confidence a mile away and if you don't have confidence in yourself, they certainly won't either. Fake it till you make it. Great KZbin channels are HVAC School and AC Service Tech LLC. Best of luck! BTW, I was 41 when I changed careers and got into HVAC, you got this!

[@maness2112]

Don't expect to be spoon fed with hvac knowledge. Know your weak areas of knowledge and skills and attack them.

[@MrToppDeck]

@@bill944 Thanks Bill. I'm coming into HVAC from land surveying, switching careers as well. Are there any specific installation manuals you would recommend reading

[@MrToppDeck]

@@maness2112 Thanks for the advice

[@scottm3552]

In my community college/HVAC school i learned alot, got straight A's, graduated with honors, passed ALL offered NATE ICE exams with all high passing scores, all the information is in the book people are you kidding lol. Experience is gained on the job, knowledge in the books. Most people skip the books. All the losers who dropped out said you learn it all on the job. All the losers who couldn't pass the NATE exams didn't pay attention in school. I was the only person in the 2 years i was there passed the NATE exams and graduated with honors. I saw it first hand, people are stupid, our society has been dumbed down very badly, god has been removed from the schools and at home, people just cant pick up simple stuff or what seems simple to a good tech. Everyone wants to sit on the toilet and jerk off all day, and if you want me to work for you........ i want 40 n hour and im willing to relocate. tankkkk youuu.

[@hostileaks4495]

You're not going to get 40 an hour any time soon. The book stuff is okay but being able to troubleshoot and fix problems in the field is where the money is. Most people will hire a guy with experience over a honor roll student.

[@JSATI]

I have an extreme interest in HVAC. Not in the "field" per say however I have taken refrigeration classes and obtained my EPA Universal earlier this year. In my early 30s I just do not believe I could match my current wages/benefit package working for a local HVAC company. Going out and opening my own business llc is the only way I see it ever working. Skilled labor isn't cheap & cheap labor isn't skilled.

[@bobboscarato1313]

You should go on your own; make sure to learn as much as you can and be sure to be well capitalized; join trade groups etc. and get involved with local community groups which will help grow your business. etc.

[@cd1772]

Not interested in the field, but want to open your own company? Sounds a little confusing man. Kindve like saying you’re interested in books and want to start a publishing company, but have no interest in reading or writing. There’s only so much you can learn on paper. You won’t have grasped 5% of the knowledge you will obtain with hands-on experience. In saying that, most companies are run by ignorant jackoffs, so statistically you would have a very high chance at success with that attitude

[@JSATI]

@@cd1772 i believe you may have misinterpreted. I wrote I have an extreme interest in HVAC. Then what I meant was although I am not in the field currently per say I did go out on my own and take classes and obtained EPA. I believe my point being is if the money is not in the HVAC field as a competitive trade how can someone be attracted to it? I currently make six figures. I find it highly unlikely a local HVAC company would hire me for anything around that. I don't know very many people to consider drastic downgrades in their professional work. When considering starting my own company doing HVAC which I seem to enjoy I also foresee that as challenging to match current wages/benefits. Mainly just responding to the video. Local companies won't pay enough. Is the risk of starting a company worth the effort in the end for my particular situation. I personally believe any trade(s) apprentice should be in the $28/hr range with decent benefits and a tech to be making $40/hr +. Of course this can vary depending on locale. Josh makes great points in the videos. The schools are set up to make money. Honestly you can learn more about HVAC by watching AC Service Tech videos online. You need great local companies willing to invest the time/money into apprentices and put them with great teachers. They need to be taught to troubleshoot, understand what the system is doing, understand cause/effect of symptoms. I personally see too many newer techs who would be unable to adequately troubleshoot yet their company is paying or commissioning them to sell NEW equipment and or service memberships. It takes money to make money. As I stated before I am early 30s and college was always pushed. Getting into the trades wasn't that big of a talk when I was in high school. However if young men/women can take a high school class or vocational school get employment into trades into an apprenticeship and have their school paid so they making $40+ an hour I am all for it. Those individuals will be making 80k+ with a little OT and no school loan debt. There is a worker shortage across the country. Supply and demand. I know of a job local that is start pay around $16/17/hr with a six year wage progression up to $32/hr. Said employer is losing employees faster than they can hire because similar work in the area is now starting $22-28/hr. People are leaving for those Companies. Other companies are offering better benefits, better work schedules/hours etc. The ones not competing will be left behind struggling. Companies need to focus on finding quality people and invest in retaining those individuals.

[@rosewoodsteel6656]

@@cd1772 "..most companies are run by ignorant jackoffs, so statistically you would have a very high chance at success with that attitude" Now that's funny!

[@kevinmonty1400]

I agree with your assessment of where things are headed for the industry, as an HVAC tech myself I have struggled over the years to find a good company to work for. I eventually found my way to the government because the pay is excellent and benefits are outstanding and the work life balance is far better. The greed of homeowners wanting immediate 24/7 service at an affordable price makes companies push their guys beyond reasonable expectations in order to compete with their competition and techs eventually get burnt out. I feel that the trade needs to re-shape how home owners think about service and learn that they will have to wait for good service. I also feel that equipment has lead many to leave the trade as I have found no brands to be truly reliable especially with the higher efficiency units you can almost guarantee a critical failure within the first 2-5 years. I plan to open my own practice to continue to be up on new residential tech and make maximum profit while also remaining working for the government where my bases are covered. Will be very interesting to see where things go in the next 5 years or so.

[@staymelting833]

What do you do in government if you don’t mind me asking? Considering making the switch myself

[@kevinmonty1400]

@@staymelting833 HVAC Mechanic WG-5301. Look it up on USA jobs. make and account and set alerts to notify you of positions available in your area. 5300 series jobs are HVAC Mechanics, Air Conditioning Equipment Mechanics, Boiler Techs, and a few other titles may vary depending on the base. Helps if your a VET- I am not but they are lacking help in mechanical trades because of some of the points discussed in this video so they opened a bunch of direct hire positions in my area to get support. Also look for 5600 series jobs- DDC Controls Technician will be titled something like Electronic Controls or HVAC controls. Of course the government has its own problems but your guaranteed a steady paycheck all year and better benefits then any company downtown (that I know of) and honestly better hourly rate most likely. You will have to adjust to the pace as your not gonna be moving like you would be running calls to earn money, for some this is hard to adjust to but you get used to it when you realize you feel better physically, mentally, and your a part of your own family again.

[@ownlanedavo1167]

@@kevinmonty1400how much experience would someone need to start? I haven’t had any luck getting into a company.

[@HelloThere-jr6gd]

Best advice I can give any new HVAC tech or anyone in trade school trying to get in the trade. Is learn your electricity and wiring. It's a lot to take in at first but, learn the basics and build on it. Eventually fixing electrical components will be as easy as changing batteries in a tv remote.

[@SqueakyHinge]

Most of my customers are wealthy and have large complicated estates and that include their factories, office building and homes. Being most of the time the 4th or 5th contractor to look at the same on going problem(s) mainly with their high tech expensive equipment they ask me why they can't seem to find anyone who knows what they are doing. My answer is always the same...and that is "it's your fault" that there are very few highly skilled techs in most any trade anymore. So I ask them at their last family/friends reunion/holiday with a lot of people sitting around when the discussion comes to the future of their kids, kids kids and grand kids as to a career field do they, the adults, advise these kids of theirs to look into the mechanical trades as a career as it offers security, good pay, many opportunities and a great sense of accomplishment. The room goes dead with the overall silent agreement among them that to work with ones hands out in the field in harsh atmosphere is for second class type of people. Not one person or group has ever tried to correct my statement. Our "new" world, for the most part, looks down upon anyone who is not college degreed or who is working with their hands and minds outside of a desk job. And it's not going to get any better..but it probably won't have to with the ever increasing use of mini split as the answer to modern day air condition and heating which is now being promoted heavily to the DIY crowd.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Well said pal

[@ajalbrecht9956]

Yeah but they still can't put them in right they don't know how to weigh in the charge or vacuum pump them down

[@thebluelunarmonkey]

And every desk job can be exported to another country where labor is cheaper. For IT, countries like india and brazil are hotspots because - in India, US corporations can pay IT professionals $12,000 USD a year. You can't outsource an HVAC job. One thing you can mention in the next party is "That 120K year job you have now, can be done in india for 12K"

[@panamacitybeachbum]

Since you brought up training, I attended 1050 classroom hours at Haney VoTech in Panama City, Florida. during the early 1990's to be a HVAC tech. All that time, and didn't get ANY training on heat pumps, or split systems. They had me repairing residential refrigerators and window units. MAYBE, if i'd stayed ANOTHER year, I might have gotten to the blocks that would have been useful in the trade. I saw they were hosing me and dropped out. I learned enough to be dangerous. Companies would hire me, and then fire me as I was useless for most everything. I stuck it out and learned from my field experiences, and became a skilled tradesman over time. I would venture to say most people would have given up with what I went through.

[@DTay312]

I tried very hard to get on with an hvac company but no one would ever hire me. I went on did apartment maintenance for awhile now I work for a university. Hearing some of the horror stories from other techs has given me comfort in the path I've chosen. I'm almost 38 and don't ever see myself working for a company. Maybe I missed my chance but I guess I have to be OK with it going forward.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Sorry to hear that. Sometimes God had a better plan for ya. 🙂

[@edwardeliyahhamner4340]

I appreciate everything you've said. I'm a newer tech and I truly feel you spoke the truth about being educated and I've had to become an apprentice of a guy that has 30 years. I'm staying humble willing to learn and I'm 58 years old but love the business and everything about hvac/r Great Stuff and on point.

[@joeywhitaker6952]

I agree. I’m keeping my business small intentionally. I could grow but I’m fortunate enough to do install and repairs as a business owner. I’m not just an operator. But GOOD employees are hard to find. This new equipment is so frustrating. Hard to follow x at times on this inverter technology and it seems nothing going to get any easier. New refrigerants coming and inverter will replace all the psc equipment eventually. Getting more and more expensive.

[@jaredscott9441]

Y’all hitting the nail on the head, these stories sound just like my experience

[@jackxv]

Yeah, this is why I just like knowing how to do things myself. At this point, I have a small armory full of tools, I know the basics of framing, how to wire a house, how to hang and fix drywall, trim carpentry, etc. Hell, I could make my own cabinets from scratch, if buying prefabricated cabinets weren’t cheaper. Plumbing and HVAC are the only real gaps in my knowledge, but even then, I get the gist of it. And, yeah, there is a shortage of people in the trades. The electrical company I work for doesn’t have enough lead electricians, and it’s a pretty big company and a lot of the helpers just kind of see it as a job, not necessarily as a career. They’re only trying to get good enough to help, not necessarily good enough to eventually take up reins, themselves. It’s gonna be interesting to see how all of this plays out as boomers continue to retire, and gen x’ers start to retire.

[@albertjimenez3173]

I’m 22 years old and an hvacr tech who specializes in commercial refrigeration, it’s amazing how little I’ve learned in school and learned more so from other techs and on the field as well as my resources, I think that’s another thing wrong with the field. Also it’s kind of messed up how older techs treat you since you’re younger and they think all younger people are useless but get surprised when you actually know your shit, well I mean I do have a buddy who never had experience with basic hand tools and I can’t imagine him as an apprentice, which he is lol

[@staymelting833]

In the same boat as you being 21.

[@robbiexiong3508]

There's nothing like real world hands on xp

[@doublezmtnman]

Have been doing HVACR for 31 years and I am done with this industry, starting my new maintenance job at an automobile factory! I have to travel farther to get parts or order parts and wait to finish the repair when years ago you went to a local parts distributor which there are none in my county any more and fixed the unit the same day. Now we are changing refrigerants again this will only complicate things even more. Speaking to the lack of qualified young workers 25 years ago our school systems discouraged average students from pursuing a “trade” at votech centers pushing them instead to take computer programming related courses at the high school while only sending the behavioral disorder or BD kids to trade schools and now here we are, we have a lost a whole generation of skilled trade’s workers. Too much indoctrination in education these days they don’t spend enough time on the fundamentals and don’t get me started on the common core math 🤬

[@ajalbrecht9956]

The company didn't want to send a kid with the guy that fixed everything cuz he just didn't want to deal with the kid

[@chrisE815]

I have had two hvac projects since buying my house 2 years ago. I ended up doing the projects myself because after waiting multiple months for the contractors to commit, I needed to get the project done! Crazy the times we are in. The guys that string you along are the worst! Just give me an accurate answer! Untimately, the projects turned out great and i learned a lot about my systems but kind of sad that's my only option.

[@_annalisetrades]

In Michigan hourly pay for techs is getting phased out. On commission I make 75-80k a year. Residential service. 22 yrs old, 2 years field experience.

[@monteglover4133]

I’m a 40+ semiretired HVAC&R tech many of us are just physical worn out and broken, not helping are increasing regulation, people not paying for services, the abundance of scam artists, … not to mention the general lack of diagnostic skills

[@jaredtandle2596]

As a tech that hasn't been in it a long time.. part of the issue is tied in with the older fellas that know it all leaving. New tech shows up and home owner is kinda like "well are you sure you know what you're doing?" You don't want to say no cuz, duh. You don't want to say yes cuz then if you fuck up it's also against your company.. training won't teach you everything. The older guys been there and fucked up already and learned what not to do. Yeah the backyard mechanic mentality sucks too cuz then you get to figure out what was done.

[@lunytoo]

I think it also has to do with many people are hearing that every new hires that does get hired in with many companies are getting stuck working in attics. Many are afraid due to hearing it’s very hot and humid, getting stabbed by roofing nails, falling through the ceiling.

[@hostileaks4495]

I work as a ac mechanic for a hospital. It's not bad. Today I am just cleaning fan coil units in stair wells. I make 52k a year right now I got 398 hours or PTO. I only do residential for family and friends.

[@willlive6845]

I went to MIAT in Michigan. The issue is that these schools need to meet certain requirements in order to be accredited. In an example they teach us how many btus and kw it takes to boil water. But we never wired up a thermostat. I spent an entire week for 8 hours a day draining and refilling a boiler system. Which was very helpful, then in the next class I did heating calculations that had no effect on my knowledge. The instructors would love to sit there and have you just work on units all day. Blame the state because they treat trade schools like colleges and turn them into regular colleges, ruining the experience.

[@justincat874]

Your one hundred percent correct i feel, see and gone through exactly what your saying. Glad im not crazy for the path im going

[@allanford1582]

been active in the trade for over 50 yrs, my family owned a small sized hvac business, we figured the average length of employment, even if we trained in house , averaged five to seven years. Now if you take into consideration my length of time in this service industry, I started at a time when things were technically very basic to today. the amount of technical knowledge one has to acquire due to the hi degree of technical change is the one thing that has kept me in this trade and the speed of change is one of reasons good techs leave.

[@robertlyman9789]

Finally get comfortable with things, then the Gov changes it up, again!

[@Jack-bs7cy]

Installed for two years. A year of that as a lead. But to alot of companys that wasn't enough. Couldn't get another company to complete to take me on to complete my skills. The owners of those companies wanted perfect techs that knew everything so the could drink coffee all day. And the company I did work for wanted me to take vacation when it got cold not when my kid had summer vacation.

[@buddha6954]

I started working for a commercial company. All they wanted to do is send me on errands and clean up. I was told that they can’t send me on service calls with a technician because service calls only pays for one technician. They don’t want to eat the cost to train. I was told my boss would be there if I ever got stuck on a call. I was stuck on a call and he wasn’t available. He finally called me an hour later. Companies don’t want to invest in the new technicians.

[@JerseyMikeHVAC]

Agree a lot with what was covered in the video, but there's another problem in the industry related to training. As a lead HVAC mechanic and I love sharing the knowledge and wealth, but sometimes I just don't get the opportunity to do it even when I have a willing and able helper hungry to learn. There's always a ticking clock in keeping up with schedules and such. When you add to that the lack of good help and experience and dwindling interest in the trade, you end up with smaller crews, less help and more time pressure to get jobs done in a timely manner. Most days I simply do not have the luxury of slowing a job down, explaining something to a helper and then letting them jump in and try to do it themselves. It just takes too long. Most days if I do eat lunch, it's with a sandwich in one hand and a wrench in the other. I would be coming home to a cold dinner 7 or 8 pm every night if I were to try to make the time to properly train a helper. Even on days when we make good time and finish up early, the pressure for me to get on to something else is always there, because I'm the only experienced installer. I'm the only one who can fabricate sheet metal. I was the only one for a while who could install water heaters. I'm the only one certified to do a generator Maintenace. I'm the only one outside of our lead tech and estimator who can swap out a control board, a blower motor, or a humidifier... We just don't have the manpower and experience to spread the load around and take the time to focus on training. There's just never enough time or help.

[@phillipalv8641]

You sound like a good Boss but I’ve been a technician for many years and I know everything from residential to commercial. The problem I see with companies especially small ones is that they don’t pay well and they treat employees like like slaves. Everything is good when you’re busy but as soon as the season slows down then you start seeing their true colors. I stop volunteering and doing extra work for them. If they fire me I have a million places to go but they still have me here because they know I’m the best 😂!!!!

[@fredboat]

Hooked up my first set of gauges in 1978. Passed Carrier tech classes 1,2 and heat pump. For many years now, So many companies run techs on a commision pay/job basis. A simple job, Say cut 2 wire by the condenser. The commision tech is not going to make $10 for the call. Also company Loyalty is mostly gone. Cool weather here in the south, Park your truck, For days sometimes. No calls. And there is a lot of Cheap labor alsp. Good luck.

[@Reddy54]

I think I had an epiphany, about HVAC techs when I found out how much they hated my G14 Lennox Pulse furnace, in the mid 80's, just because it operates differently than any other furnace. The more I learned about it, I found what an amazing furnace it is. I have an Aerospace technical background and a neighbour in the HVAC trade, so I kept it going for more than 30 years until the heat exchanger finally went on it. Then believe it or not I found an unused Pulse furnace, a G21, and had my licensed neighbour install it after we wrestled it into the basement. My neighbour's buddies still badmouth that unit, but I have a store of parts and I expect I will be done around the same time that furnace croaks.There aren't a lot of DIY people that would study something like that, like I did. I still get a lot of fun explaining to my neighbour's beer chugging pals, who are in the trade, how it works. With the electronics going into the newer equipment, they still don't seem all that interested in learning about how things work. I think that is how to attract new blood into the HVAC business. Sell it as high tech industry, invest in ongoing training of techs and pay them what they are worth.

[@d69f69]

Definitely an "owner" perspective. I get it. What about holding these trade schools accountable? Community college instructor argued with me that there's 2k btu/ton. There's no new quality techs because their trade schools are garbage. Furthermore, young techs primarily avoid questioning their sr guys. No questions means no knowledge gained. It's cool if you're 30 and you don't know it all! Ask questions! You can make a good living here. And it takes a lot of energy to be good. These guys need mental health days.

[@markniles3013]

I have been in the business for 25 plus years and I can tell you I do not care who has to pay me but I will not be tired and hungry. If I can't make good money I will not do the job.

[@cameronprice931]

True man. I’m HVAC tech and there’s lot of work for me to do out here because of the lack of quality work that’s done around here , when I go on service calls homeowners are very impressed from me doing what I’m supposed to do when I go a little above and beyond , man i work my tail off but I take pride in my work and it always shows , 2.5 years in and people treat me with respect like I’ve been doing 10 years .. some customers can be hard at first but when they realize I’m actually benefiting them they change up the attitude

[@tomhaeussler6553]

I have been an hvac technician since 1990 and I agree with much of what you said but even though I am very good at what I do and I always try to go the extra mile for the customer we sometimes still get bad reviews because of the way the office talked to them on the phone or they had to wait or were too expensive or they didn’t like the salesman or whatever and I really got tired of the 24 hour on call so about 5 years ago I switched to a company that does commercial and industrial only and I won’t have to be on call anymore once I turn 52 next month!! But I am still friends with my old employer as a matter of fact my son started working for them as soon as he graduated from high school and he will be starting an apprenticeship with the union next spring so I’m trying to do my part with recruiting young people and yes they didn’t grow up the same way that us older people did as far as using tools everyday from a young age, but they are much more technical than us and the hvac field is too with BAS and even homes with the internet of things, so I think we’re going to be ok !

[@keithowens5753]

Well said. 13 years in, I'm seeing way more sales tech's than repair tech's.

[@Hvacmaniac97]

Private hvac companies dont care about your complaints. Its all about what you bring in ticket wise or install profit. I worked for 3 years in hvac, and im not impressed about retention in residential. I've invested alot in tools to be just treated like a disposable worker. And i consider myself one of the good skilled workers. I took my time to learn from guys older than me. And i am blessed to have those three friends that took the time to show me. The business model for resi is like car sales and comfort sales bs. I am taking a break and start my own business. I worked commercial and ive seen alot of layoffs and retirees that knew the equipment left and techs that are left struggle or call contractors. I think the goverment should continue pumping money into this stem career cause essentially you can be a mechanical technology technician which is a high degree of technicians that work with automation hvac plumbing small electrical systems. Robotics is going to take the job market to a new height and cause some strife as well.

[@steveurbach3093]

A 'real tech' is born. Really. Just like successful Artists and Musicians, training just bring them to the top. If you don't have it, then they will just muddle thru. I blame 'no child left behind' caused a shift in the education titles. My Navy electronics schools used to be worth an AA in the civilian side. Before I retired, My job (by description) now required a BS. HR wouldn't even look at my resume because I did not have one. (Hint: Navy ET is not all about tiny circuits. Ny Radar gad water cooling, Dry air injection,Large Motors and a 3T antenna that stayed level) We learned to troubleshoot because we were in the middle of a Ocean (and there was no Internet)

[@thebluelunarmonkey]

I was in the Air Force and one assignment over 30 years ago, I was the programmer for CCAF (Community College of the Air Force), where you got your AAS (Associate in Applied Sciences) transcript. Seems like one project I worked on was to finally start giving the other services AAS diplomas. For many military jobs, 4 years should equal a bachelor and 6 years a masters, easily. While I did get my bachelor in accounting while still a staff sergeant, the civilian bachelor really didn't prepare me to WORK as an accountant, even thou I grad with honors. My USAF tech school actually did prepare me to work as a programmer.

[@rashatmehta1386]

Most techs make like 20 an hour in my area. That's an average of helpers and more experienced. How is anybody in an urban area gonna live off that?

[@7002217]

I had told that same thing to my manager and he told me that I should budget my money better

[@jeffkablock3229]

i just retired last month 45 year service in florida im glad i missed the cold you guys will be busy for weeks lol

[@tomwardzala4240]

Last 10 years was crucial for HVAC trade when variable speed technology was introduced for residential side of the trade

[@RollinHomies]

Schools are definitely there to just take your money. I also think students pay less attention in class because they think KZbin will save them. I also think there are less people working for companies (being self employed) and not reporting/keeping a LLC license to avoid the taxes.

[@Syphonfllter]

My old manager used to stress how useless a lot of guys outta trade school were, I learned on the job and I'm glad I did.. I've been doing this for a few years now but with a shortage of techs sometimes smaller offices gotta do it all and you'll either sink or swim when it's time to put in some work. This job kicks me in the balls sometimes but I love it.

[@hyrumbliss5811]

Greedy employers have been a problem since way back when I started in machine shop, they knew the jobs were scarce and could underpay...this mentality carried over to the construction industry until I joined a union, and it still wasn't what I thought it would be.

[@masteraugmentedproduction5828]

Self employed for three years just me and my wife left the giant corporate machine never felt better even though the sky is falling.

[@ezekiellackey3439]

I’m not sure what you mean by top dollar. If anything the way the economies going, food, gas, ect.. the average tech can’t be making the wages that employers have been paying the last 15 to 20 years. Second, the attribute lacking in most younger trade techs across the board is self initiative and the drive to work hard. And I definitely agree that the newer technologies, especially for the older generation has been a challenge. Senior techs with thirty to forty years of experience don’t want anything to do with a lot of these electronic driven comfort systems.

[@MrJeromegon]

That’s easy. Training,Training,Training and more training. Some companies don’t want to train their tech. They refuse to train and there is no support and little patience for grow. That’s the main issue.

[@sagelow3274]

Advice for HVAC&R techs with at least 5 years experience. Every year check indeed listings for better opportunities to better your life. Im positive you'll be putting in your 2 weeks if you do.

[@williamdwyer3302]

pretty much got it covered.there's also alot of company's chaseing the dollar,just hurry up and charge the customer.customer gets bare minimal service.then tech's driveing 2hrs to do a 20 minute service contract crap for something straight up stupid.most company owner's are subpar them selves,cutting corner's. companies worried about flat rate priceing and tech's want the bonus's.started in the trade in 1983,went into the construction end of the union in 2000.still do residential on slow winter's [im in new england].do a honest job for honest pay.didnt get into playing sales man and sold more equiptment in the long run.

[@CommercialGasEngineerVideos]

Good channel. Thanks for your efforts recording, editing and publishing.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Thanks pal

[@william474]

There it is customer's. You find a damn good HVAC/R technician, just treat them well. Not kiss his ass but treat em with respect. That's all I i ask from my customers.

[@MrKen59]

Not to be mean or anything, the reason I simply do my own thing is because I’ve had people do lazy work, and while I trusted them and paid for the services, what I got was compromise and having to fix what they broke. Obviously it’s not everyone, but after you get taken a few times, if found it easier to not bother asking. There are some things I refuse to do for obvious safety reasons, but it’s sad that a few make it bad for the many. I guess the other part is my own fault - I hate confrontation so instead of making them do it right, I retract. That’s on me.

[@tekjunkie28]

I had to really really dig to find the guys that are in business for themselves. They are a little cheaper because of less overhead but they are so busy they can’t take on new customers. I’m so very close to move from maintenance to HVAC. Just because I can’t find anyone reliable to replace my units. I seem to know more then techs coming in to give me quotes.

[@NewHVACGuide]

Crazy. A lot of the folks “giving quotes” have never held a screwdriver, but they’re good at selling, so companies hire them.

[@jcforward741]

On the school part. I’d love to eventually be a teacher at a local votech (vocational school) but the state typically has a set itinerary that you have to teach which is hot garbage usually

[@hvacrnortheastern2110]

You are absolutely correct l am a substitute HVAC teacher at a local trade school l see the literature NCC change over the years not for better l try to go back basics learning HVAC . l think we need more HVACR companies & unions get involved with all trade schools of getting better result .

[@DanielHernandez-tp2tm]

What do you consider "top dollar"?.... Just curious. I've been a technician for 20 years.....

[@wardraven8755]

Ill just do my own. I had one come in for a quote and he disconnected the igniter in my furnace and sabotaged the main blower and it almost burned my house down had to put it out and he sabotaged the exhaust fan to run all the time. So i will do my own work

[@tclyde865]

The inflation situation also as a country I think is a big factor why some of these newer employees will continue to want more money. I passed by a McDonalds sign the other day saying they pay 18 an hour to start. That's what the entry level expectations are at these days.

[@ukrainaunfiltered5435]

Subscribed as a tech with a small business

[@gideonbraver9468]

I think many blue collar jobs are going to have to go to a apprenticeship setup. Get paid a much lower wage but you get to learn the trade. Companies are going to have to lure people that way, why pay thousands for a piece of paper, or learn a trade and get paid while learning. Hoping people just show up wanting these jobs is just not going to get it done. I work in the automotive trade and it's getting hard to find people to fill positions. Not only that but where I work is government fleet and were struggling to get applicants.

[@daveforgot127]

I know in here in Edgewater Florida they just don't pay. I know guy who spend $28,000 to learn and get qualified and was offered less than $10/hr. for his first job. Companies just don't want to pay in certain areas. Fortunately for him he pivoted and now is working for Fedex making around $60k/yr

[@Nba19980]

Residential hvac is amateur hour honestly. Commercial is 1000x better, especially with no on call… Mom and pop hvac shops that keep their guys at essentially poverty level while the ignorant owners are filthy rich. Ditch the mom and pops shop…

[@bruceelias2732]

Thanks Griff I'm just starting to listen to your education about finding a good contractor