HVAC Apprentices: What Are They and What Do They Do?

Due to the complexity of the HVAC system in your home, maintenance and repairs must be carried out only by a professional. That’s why at Beeson Mechanical, we only hire licensed HVAC technicians with certifications, such as the most notable NATE Certification. In this way, we can make sure that our team meets well-defined industry standards and that they perform their work with professionalism and competence.

But on occasion, they may be accompanied by an HVAC apprentice. But what exactly does this mean for your home, and what are they expected to do? Below, we explore what it means to be an HVAC apprentice.

What is an HVAC apprentice?

An HVAC apprentice is someone who wants to become an HVAC technician. During their apprenticeship, they’re guided by a mentor who shows them how to maintain, repair, and install HVAC systems for both homes and commercial properties. To become an apprentice, one must be 18 years old or older, have a high school diploma or GED, and have a valid driver’s license. Most importantly, they must be willing to get their hands dirty.

How can someone apply for an HVAC apprenticeship?

A person can apply for an HVAC apprenticeship in more ways than one. They can contact local union chapters that can help them apply for an apprenticeship and get into training programs. However, the most common way to do it is by contacting local companies such as Beeson Mechanical.

How long is an HVAC apprenticeship?

It takes anywhere between three to five years to complete an HVAC apprenticeship, but if the apprenticeship was mandated by the state, a trainee may need to complete a predetermined number of hours before they can obtain their license.

What does an HVAC apprentice do?

Basically, an HVAC apprentice is a trainee who will observe their mentor and learn the basics of HVAC maintenance. At times, they may be asked to do some of the minor tasks (e.g. clearing clogs), but they will always be supervised, and their work will always be double-checked by us. Over time, they may be given more responsibilities, but only if our technicians are confident that they’re up to the task.

The common roles of an HVAC apprentice are:

• Install, relocate, repair, and maintain HVAC systems
• Diagnose problems in HVAC systems and/or their components
• Replace refrigerants
• Read drawings
• Determine materials needed for maintenance and repairs
• Connect wiring
• Use power tools such as saws, power drills, and pumps
• Examine electrical circuits
• Insect pipes for leaks

If you’re worried that the apprentice’s work will be subpar, know that aside from their apprenticeship, they must also go through classroom training. They must complete courses that tackle include industry code standards, industry safety, load calculations, and much more. Although they may be beginners, that doesn’t mean they have no idea what they’re doing.

At Beeson, your home is in capable hands

At Beeson Mechanical, we’d never leave your home in the hands of someone we don’t trust. That’s why our team is composed of only experienced HVAC technicians, and when we do hire HVAC apprentices, we ensure they’re more than capable. For reliable HVAC services in Indiana, call Beeson Mechanical at (317) 535-9338 today.