When you think about jobs that keep homes, offices, and factories running smoothly, HVAC technicians are at the heart of it. They’re the people who install, repair, and maintain the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems that keep us comfortable every day.
But if you’re considering a career in HVAC or hiring one for your business, one question naturally comes up: how much does an HVAC technician make a year?
Let’s break it down — from salaries by experience level and location to factors that influence pay and why demand for HVAC techs keeps rising.
What Does an HVAC Technician Do?
Before we talk numbers, it helps to understand what HVAC technicians actually do.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians work on systems that control air quality and temperature in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Their duties include:
- Installing air conditioning and heating systems
- Inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining ventilation systems
- Troubleshooting electrical or mechanical malfunctions
- Repairing or replacing worn-out components
- Calibrating thermostats and checking for energy efficiency
- Working with refrigerants and ensuring systems meet environmental standards
It’s a job that combines technical skill, problem-solving, and physical work — and because HVAC systems are essential year-round, technicians are in steady demand.
The Average Annual Salary of an HVAC Technician
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and leading salary platforms like Indeed and Glassdoor, the average HVAC technician earns between $50,000 and $65,000 per year (₦78 million to ₦101 million per year, or €46,000 to €60,000).
However, salaries can vary widely depending on experience, location, certification, and specialization.
Let’s break it down further.
Entry-Level HVAC Technicians
If you’re just starting out in the field, expect to earn around $38,000–$45,000 per year (₦59 million–₦70 million / €35,000–€42,000).
These positions typically involve assisting senior technicians, learning the ropes, and handling basic maintenance or installations under supervision.
As you gain more hands-on experience and complete certifications (like EPA 608 or NATE), your earning potential increases significantly.
Mid-Level HVAC Technicians
With 3–5 years of experience, most HVAC technicians make $50,000–$65,000 annually (₦78 million–₦101 million / €46,000–€60,000).
At this stage, you’re likely working independently, managing installations or service calls, and possibly supervising newer technicians.
Technicians who specialize in commercial systems, which are often larger and more complex, tend to earn on the higher end of this range.
Senior & Specialized Technicians
Experienced HVAC techs with over 10 years in the field — or those who handle industrial systems, refrigeration, or advanced diagnostics — can make $75,000 to over $100,000 per year (₦116 million–₦155 million / €69,000–€92,000).
Some even move into management or contracting roles, where they oversee multiple projects and teams, earning well above six figures.
Hourly Wages for HVAC Technicians
For technicians paid hourly, the rate usually falls between $22 and $35 per hour (₦17,000–₦27,000 / €20–€31).
In some high-demand markets, especially during peak seasons (summer for air conditioning or winter for heating), hourly rates can surge to $40–$50/hour (₦31,000–₦39,000 / €37–€46).
Overtime, weekend, or emergency repair calls also boost earnings significantly.
HVAC Technician Salary by State (USA)
Location is one of the biggest factors affecting HVAC technician pay. States with high demand and higher living costs typically offer better compensation.
| State | Average Annual Salary (USD) | Approx. in ₦ (Naira) | Approx. in € (Euro) |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $70,000 | ₦109,000,000 | €64,000 |
| Texas | $56,000 | ₦87,000,000 | €51,000 |
| Florida | $52,000 | ₦81,000,000 | €47,000 |
| New York | $68,000 | ₦106,000,000 | €62,000 |
| Illinois | $60,000 | ₦93,000,000 | €55,000 |
| Georgia | $54,000 | ₦84,000,000 | €49,000 |
| Arizona | $57,000 | ₦88,000,000 | €52,000 |
| Washington | $72,000 | ₦112,000,000 | €65,000 |
Note: Figures are based on 2025 averages and rounded for simplicity.
Factors That Affect HVAC Technician Salaries
- Experience & Skill Level
Like most trades, HVAC pay rises with experience. Senior technicians and those with a broad range of technical skills can command top rates. - Certifications & Licenses
Certifications such as EPA Section 608, NATE, and HVAC Excellence show employers that you meet professional standards, which can boost pay by 10–20%. - Location & Demand
States with extreme temperatures or fast-growing housing markets (like Florida, Arizona, and Texas) have high demand for HVAC professionals, driving up wages. - Type of Employer
Technicians working for government agencies or large corporations tend to earn more than those working for small independent contractors. - Overtime & Emergency Work
HVAC systems don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. Technicians who accept emergency calls, weekend shifts, or overtime can add thousands to their yearly income. - Specialization
Those skilled in refrigeration, commercial HVAC, or energy-efficient systems often earn higher wages due to the complexity and scale of their work.
HVAC Technician Career Outlook
The HVAC industry is growing steadily. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for HVAC technicians to grow by 6% between 2024 and 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Rising construction activity, stricter energy regulations, and the replacement of older systems are all driving this demand.
That means not only job stability — but also increasing salaries as skilled workers become more sought after.
Why HVAC is a Strong Career Path
If you enjoy technical, hands-on work that combines problem-solving and real-world impact, HVAC is a solid choice.
- Job Security: People always need climate control — in homes, offices, hospitals, and factories.
- Growth Opportunities: You can move up into management, start your own business, or specialize in smart home and energy-efficient systems.
- No College Degree Required: Most technicians learn through vocational training or apprenticeships, which means you can start earning quickly.
- Good Pay with Experience: With time, experience, and certification, you can easily reach a six-figure income.
How Tealpot Supports HVAC Professionals
At Tealpot, we understand how valuable skilled technicians are — especially those working on short-term or project-based roles.
If you’re an HVAC professional, you can:
- Find verified short-term jobs with reliable pay.
- Work with top companies that need your skills on demand.
- Build your reputation through ratings and completed projects.
And if you’re a business owner, Tealpot helps you hire certified HVAC technicians quickly, without the long recruitment process. You can fill positions for maintenance, repair, or installation projects — all through one simple platform.
Whether you’re managing a hotel chain, a property firm, or an office complex, we’ll connect you to the right people when you need them.
Hire HVAC Technicians or Find HVAC Jobs →
Final Thoughts
So, how much does an HVAC technician make a year?
On average, between $50,000 and $65,000 per year — but skilled technicians, especially those with certifications or commercial experience, can earn far more. With the growing demand for energy-efficient systems and consistent year-round work, HVAC remains one of the most stable and rewarding technical careers.
And for companies, platforms like Tealpot make it easier than ever to find trusted HVAC professionals ready to take on your next project.
