How Green Building Trends Are Expanding Opportunities In HVAC Careers

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems play important roles in green buildings. Many of the green building factors are directly or indirectly affected by the performance of HVAC systems.

Green technologies in HVACR present exciting opportunities for technicians.  Solar power, wind turbines, geothermal heating, and advanced refrigeration are a few examples of green trends that are opening many new jobs and careers. Earning an associate degree trains graduates for careers in residential, commercial, and industrial positions.

Current Growth In Green Building Trends

Current growth in green building trends is not limited to the HVAC industry. They also apply to the general construction industry in these approaches:

  • Net zero buildings produce as much energy as they use in a year. This is achieved by installing solar panels, wind turbines, geothermal, and other systems.
  • Green building materials are in demand because they provide environmental and financial benefits. They have a smaller carbon footprint, require less water, and are easier to maintain.
  • Prefab and modular construction is popular due to the advancements in technology and a shortage of skilled labor. This method provides faster construction times, reduced waste, and lower labor costs.
  • 3D construction printing is growing rapidly with a projected compound annual growth rate of 100.7% through 2030.
  • Building Information Modeling (BIM) improves the efficiency of construction projects and reduces their environmental impact.

Other green building trends include an increased focus on sustainability and resilience, use of renewable energy sources, energy-efficient design, water conservation, and use of green roofing and walls. HVAC technicians’ work has direct application to all these green building trends because they all need heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.

Green Trends And HVAC Careers

Green building trends provide additional opportunities for HVAC technicians and their careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs for HVAC technicians are expected to grow 9 percent from 2023 to 2033. This rate is much faster than the average of all other occupations. Approximately 42,500 new openings are projected each year from 2023 to 2033. These openings emerge as older employees retire and green construction expands.

The green building market size is projected to reach USD 0.59 trillion in 2024 and grow at a rate of 10.82 percent to USD 1.10 trillion by 2029. This unprecedented growth along with traditional building methods will create thousands of new jobs for technicians and expand their career opportunities like never before. 

“Green technologies in HVACR present exciting opportunities for technicians.”

Green Trends And HVAC Careers: Green HVAC Benefits Mean Job Growth

Green HVAC systems generate many benefits over standard HVAC systems which entice more people to install energy-efficient green energy equipment. Job opportunities expand as more homes and businesses adopt these benefits.

  • Avoid expensive repairs such as replacing R22 refrigerant which the EPA is gradually phasing out. Repairing old equipment with R22 will become more expensive and eventually be obsolete. Avoid expensive repairs by installing a green energy HVAC system.
  • Better temperature control is a result of new technology that uses smart sensors and automation. This can help reduce energy bills even further.
  • Cost savings are achieved because many green systems do not require electricity from the grid to generate heat. Using renewable energy sources often saves money on utility bills over time.
  • Energy efficiency is improved because green units use heating and cooling that is recycled directly into the process. Geothermal energy is one of the most energy-efficient systems.
  • Environmentally energy-friendly HVAC systems help move away from fossil fuels and limit their carbon footprint. Renewable energy sources emit fewer greenhouse gasses and pollutants into the air.
  • Financial incentives can be realized when local governments and companies support people or businesses that use green equipment and systems. Specific tax incentives and breaks are offered for certain system installations.
  • Less maintenance may be required because green equipment is typically more self-sufficient.
  • Longer-lasting technology like heat pumps can last 16-26 years when well maintained.
     This is as much as 5-10 years longer than conventional HVAC units and saves more energy and money.
  • Reducing allergens and their impact on humans and pets is made possible by circulating cleaner air to improve our health.
  • Self-sustainability is achieved because renewable energy sources remove some or much of our dependency on the power grid. This gives us autonomy over how we generate energy sources. You can often avoid the risk of being exposed to local, state, or national grid outages.

How To Get An Entry-Level Job In The HVAC Industry

Obtaining a technician’s job in the HVAC industry begins by earning an Associate Degree of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Electrical Technology. Let us help you get started with your HVAC training.

For more information about graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website: https://iticollege.edu/disclosures/