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The differences between hvac mechanics and mechanics can be seen in a few details. Each job has different responsibilities and duties. While it typically takes 2-4 years to become a hvac mechanic, becoming a mechanic takes usually requires 1-2 years. Additionally, a hvac mechanic has an average salary of $50,752, which is higher than the $47,149 average annual salary of a mechanic.
The top three skills for a hvac mechanic include hand tools, HVAC and ventilation. The most important skills for a mechanic are hand tools, preventive maintenance, and customer service.
| Hvac Mechanic | Mechanic | |
| Yearly salary | $50,752 | $47,149 |
| Hourly rate | $24.40 | $22.67 |
| Growth rate | 5% | 4% |
| Number of jobs | 73,057 | 100,534 |
| Job satisfaction | - | 4.25 |
| Most common degree | Associate Degree, 25% | High School Diploma, 42% |
| Average age | 40 | 42 |
| Years of experience | 4 | 2 |
An HVAC mechanic specializes in installing and repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, ensuring quality and efficiency. Their responsibilities revolve around communicating with clients to identify their needs, troubleshooting, identifying the root of issues, and performing corrective measures. They may also perform regular maintenance checks to ensure that the devices are functioning efficiently and safely. Furthermore, as an HVAC mechanic, it is essential to explain the extent of repairs to the clients and recommend ways to maintain systems in good condition.
Mechanics are professionals responsible for assembling, maintaining, and repairing vehicles and types of machinery. They are knowledgeable of various tools and equipment, machinery, electrical systems, and other components. They can usually be seen indoors, garages in particular. Due to the advancement of technology, they are also required to be familiar with computer and software programs that can be used in auto shops and vehicles. They always work in safety precautions.
Hvac mechanics and mechanics have different pay scales, as shown below.
| Hvac Mechanic | Mechanic | |
| Average salary | $50,752 | $47,149 |
| Salary range | Between $34,000 And $73,000 | Between $35,000 And $63,000 |
| Highest paying City | Brookline, MA | San Jose, CA |
| Highest paying state | Washington | Connecticut |
| Best paying company | American Residential Services | Anheuser-Busch |
| Best paying industry | Manufacturing | Manufacturing |
There are a few differences between a hvac mechanic and a mechanic in terms of educational background:
| Hvac Mechanic | Mechanic | |
| Most common degree | Associate Degree, 25% | High School Diploma, 42% |
| Most common major | Heating And Air Conditioning | Automotive Technology |
| Most common college | Dunwoody College of Technology | - |
Here are the differences between hvac mechanics' and mechanics' demographics:
| Hvac Mechanic | Mechanic | |
| Average age | 40 | 42 |
| Gender ratio | Male, 97.5% Female, 2.5% | Male, 95.7% Female, 4.3% |
| Race ratio | Black or African American, 8.2% Unknown, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 19.7% Asian, 2.6% White, 64.5% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.7% | Black or African American, 8.5% Unknown, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 17.1% Asian, 2.4% White, 65.9% American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.1% |
| LGBT Percentage | 2% | 2% |