HVAC Mechanic

Summary

Install, service, or repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

Examples of Work

Job functions are specific duties that would be included in the essential functions of the job description.  These functions are not all-inclusive nor do they cover the full extent of the duties performed.

• Test pipe or tubing joints or connections for leaks, using pressure gauge or soap-and-water solution
• Test electrical circuits or components for continuity, using electrical test equipment
• Repair or replace defective equipment, components, or wiring
• Discuss heating or cooling system malfunctions with users to isolate problems or to verify that repairs corrected malfunctions
• Repair or service heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to improve efficiency, such as by changing filters, cleaning ducts, or refilling non-toxic refrigerants
• Install, connect, or adjust thermostats, humidistats, or timers
• Connect heating or air conditioning equipment to fuel, water, or refrigerant source to form complete circuit
• Study blueprints, design specifications, or manufacturers’ recommendations to ascertain the configuration of heating or cooling equipment components and to ensure the proper installation of components
• Comply with all applicable standards, policies, or procedures, such as safety procedures or the maintenance of a clean work area
• Install auxiliary components to heating or cooling equipment, such as expansion or discharge valves, air ducts, pipes, blowers, dampers, flues, or stokers
• Lay out and connect electrical wiring between controls and equipment, according to wiring diagrams, using electrician’s hand tools
• Inspect and test systems to verify system compliance with plans and specifications or to detect and locate malfunctions
• Record and report time, materials, faults, deficiencies, or other unusual occurrences on work orders
• Install and test automatic, programmable, or wireless thermostats in residential or commercial buildings to minimize energy usage for heating or cooling
• Adjust system controls to settings recommended by manufacturer to balance system
• Install dehumidifiers or related equipment for spaces that require cool, dry air to operate efficiently, such as computer rooms
• Recommend, develop, or perform preventive or general maintenance procedures, such as cleaning, power-washing, or vacuuming equipment, oiling parts, or changing filters
• Install magnetic-centrifugal chillers, compressors, or related equipment to cool air temperatures through the use of recirculating water
• Cut or drill holes in floors, walls, or roof to install equipment, using power saws or drills
• Measure, cut, thread, or bend pipe or tubing, using pipe fitter’s tools
• Install or repair air purification systems, such as specialized filters or ultraviolet (UV) light purification systems
• Assemble, position, and mount heating or cooling equipment, following blueprints or manufacturer’s specifications
• Fabricate, assemble, or install duct work or chassis parts, using portable metal-working tools or welding equipment
• Install radiator controls for room-level zone control heating of residential or commercial buildings
• Install or repair self-contained ground source heat pumps or hybrid ground or air source heat pumps to minimize carbon-based energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions
• Wrap pipes, securing insulation in place with cement or wire bands
• Operate University of Florida (UF) vehicles

Education and Experience

Completion of an approved heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems apprenticeship program; or a high school diploma or equivalent and four years of relevant experience. Appropriate vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.

Licensure and Certification

Florida Class E operator (driver) license

Supervision

• Works under immediate or general supervision
• May lead a team or directly supervise

To see common career pathways for each position at the University of Florida please visit the Career Paths section of the UFHR website.