Plumbers looking to branch out into the field of HVAC maintenance and installation need to learn specialized skills that go beyond piping and fixtures.

From mastering refrigeration systems to understanding airflow dynamics, each competency will build your ability to handle heating, cooling, and ventilation challenges confidently.

So, here are five essential skills that every plumber needs for a successful HVAC career.

1.   Refrigeration System Knowledge

Understanding refrigeration systems (which you can learn at specialist educational establishments like The Refrigeration School) is foundational for HVAC work.

This involves knowing how refrigerants cycle through compressors, evaporators, and condensers to create cooling effects.

You also need to grasp pressure-temperature relationships in these systems, as they’re crucial for diagnosing performance issues or leaks.

Recognizing the components of different system types – split units or packaged systems – can help you install or maintain them efficiently.

A clear knowledge base lets you troubleshoot problems accurately and ensures compliance with regulations like safe refrigerant handling standards.

2.   Electrical Troubleshooting Skills

HVAC systems rely heavily on electrical components. Knowing how to test circuits, locate faulty wiring, and handle control boards is critical for maintenance or repair.

Being familiar with reading schematics and using tools like multimeters can save time when diagnosing issues in thermostats, relays, or compressors.

Also, safety is key here. So, understanding voltage ratings and proper handling is crucial for preventing accidents during troubleshooting.

A strong grasp of these skills not only resolves system problems efficiently but also builds confidence in working around complex electrical setups.

3.   Thermodynamics Understanding

Knowing how heat transfers, airflow moves, and energy exchanges are critical for designing efficient systems. After all, HVAC systems revolve around the principles of thermodynamics.

Understanding concepts like heat gain or loss helps you size equipment accurately.

Comprehending phase changes in refrigerants ensures better diagnostics during cooling failures.

This knowledge connects directly to practical work – like optimizing heating efficiency or troubleshooting uneven cooling zones.

By mastering thermodynamics basics, you can provide solutions that improve comfort while minimizing energy waste in homes and businesses alike.

4.   Airflow and Ventilation Basics

Proper airflow is the backbone of HVAC performance. Without balanced ventilation, systems struggle to maintain consistent temperatures or manage air quality.

Recognizing how ductwork layout affects circulation helps you identify pressure imbalances or blockages. You’ll also need to measure airflow rates with tools like anemometers to ensure they meet system specifications.

Understanding ventilation basics aids in improving efficiency, controlling humidity levels, and addressing issues like uneven heating or cooling.

Strong expertise in this area ensures systems run smoothly while maximizing occupant comfort.

5.   HVAC Diagnostic Techniques

Lastly, troubleshooting HVAC issues requires sharp diagnostic skills.

Systems can fail for many reasons, from refrigerant leaks to faulty sensors or airflow blockages.

A systematic approach helps narrow down the cause.

Using tools like pressure gauges, leak detectors, and infrared thermometers speeds up problem identification.

Knowing how to interpret error codes on modern systems also saves time during repairs.

Strong diagnostics ensure you fix problems accurately the first time, preventing repeat visits and building trust with clients through reliable service.

The group’s revamped sponsorships provide contractor members with more value and opportunities for thought leadership

Women in HVACR (WHVACR), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration trades, has announced its new 2025 sponsorship levels, which will bring more value to contractor members and allow them to support women in the trades.

“After listening to feedback from our members, we are taking the opportunity to revamp our sponsorships to add more value for our contractors,” said Women in HVACR President Kristin Gallup. “It’s important that we improve our communication with our members, and these new sponsorship options will allow us to more effectively stay in touch with our members to let them know how their sponsorships are helping women in the skilled trades industry.”

These sponsorships enhance the industry workforce through education, mentoring and networking opportunities that support and empower women currently in the HVACR industry. Women in HVACR provides a sponsor’s female employees with opportunities to advance personally and professionally and boosts the sponsor’s profile in the HVACR industry.

Sponsorship levels include:

• Inspiration
• Champion
• Empowerment
• Visionary
• Luminary
• Guardian

The expanded benefits include a unique sponsor logo from Women in HVACR that can be posted to the sponsor’s website and on social media, tickets to the Women in HVACR conference, preferential booth placement at the conference, and expanded mentorship prospects.

Companies can become an endowment fund sponsor by purchasing an Angel sponsorship. The Angel sponsorship starts at $1,000, but those who want to support the program can donate as much as they like. These endowments go to sponsor scholarships and fund initiatives created by Women in HVACR to help women succeed in the trades.

“We are often asked by company owners about some of the best ways to recruit, hire and retain women in the trades,” Gallup said. “One of the best ways to do that is to sponsor organizations like Women in HVACR. These scholarships and endowments not only create scholarships, they also help us offer mentorship programs and provide ongoing educational programs for our members.”

Other benefits can include opportunities to showcase a sponsor’s thought leadership and dedication to diversity with a speaking opportunity at the AHR Expo in Las Vegas on Feb. 4-6, 2026, webinar collaborations, recognition during a monthly membership call and in a magazine ad in Women in HVACR’s new magazine, Elevate, and an interview on a Women in HVACR partner’s industry podcast.

For more information on how to become a Women in HVACR sponsor, visit https://www.womeninhvacr.org/sponsorship or call them at (480) 805-8403.

Bryant, a leading provider of high-quality heating, ventilation, and air conditioning solutions, is proud to announce the successful conclusion of its 120th anniversary celebration, having raised $113,000 in support to food banks affiliated with Feeding America. Through a year-long campaign of charitable donations and volunteer hours, Bryant has made a significant contribution to the fight against hunger, helping communities across the nation. Bryant is a part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions.

Over the course of 2024, Bryant employees, distributors, and dealers collectively raised money for Feeding America. Bryant kicked off efforts with a $50,000 donation; the rest was raised through individual contributors and 17 partners from seven states. These funds will be distributed to food banks across the country, providing critical resources to individuals and families in need. The company’s commitment to fighting food insecurity goes beyond financial support, with more than 600 volunteer hours dedicated to local food banks.

“We are incredibly proud of the impact we were able to make in our 120th year,” said Nick Arch, Vice President and General Manager, Residential HVAC Solutions, Bryant. “Exceeding our volunteering goal was a testament to the generosity and strength of the Bryant network. Our commitment to supporting Feeding America will continue to grow as we work together to ensure that no one goes hungry.”

Throughout the year, Bryant’s employees, and affiliates packed food donations, supported mobile pantries, drive-thru pantries, and other food distribution efforts, and launched a social media campaign. These efforts were aimed at providing immediate assistance while also raising long-term awareness about the issue of food insecurity.

Bryant’s support of Feeding America is part of the company’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, which focuses on making a positive difference in communities where Bryant operates. Through initiatives like these, Bryant strives to leave a lasting impact on both local and national levels, demonstrating its commitment to creating a better future for all.

Feeding America, the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization, provides millions of meals each year to people facing food insecurity. By supporting Feeding America, Bryant has directly contributed to the organization’s mission of providing food to individuals and families in need.

To learn more about Bryant’s ongoing support of Feeding America and the renewed commitment to support in 2025, visit https://www.bryant.com/en/us/about-bryant/community-involvement/.

Trane, American Standard, and Workiz forge ahead with future integrations, empowering small to midsize HVAC companies enabling their business growth

Workiz, the leading provider of field service management (FSM) solutions, announced today a new collaboration with Trane and American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning. The two brands account for a large share of the residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. This strategic relationship marks another significant milestone for Workiz as it continues to grow its market share in the home services space and underscores its commitment to advancing the HVAC business landscape specifically.

Trane and American Standard, brands of Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT), a global climate innovator, specialize in cutting-edge HVAC systems and controls, with Trane being named America’s Most Trusted Residential HVAC Brand for the 11^th consecutive year by Lifestory Research. Through the collaboration with Trane and American Standard, Workiz aims to empower HVAC contractors with an innovative FSM platform supporting streamlined and easier operations to help support contractors’ business growth.

Trusted by over 120,000 service professionals, Workiz consistently earns the top spot on Forbes lists, G2 and other preferred software review sites, for ease of use, implementation, user adoption, and customer satisfaction. Workiz presents cutting-edge technology and provides industry-unique tools, including an AI-powered communication suite, advanced reporting and data analytics solutions, and a robust automation engine to streamline operational and commercial workflows. The integration of the Workiz price book and equipment tracking solutions presents a comprehensive solution tailored to the unique needs of contractors. Designed for small to midsize businesses, Workiz offers a tailored package for HVAC contractors purchasing equipment through the platform.

“With its easy-to-use platform, Workiz offers our dealers an excellent FSM option. We look forward to collaborating with Workiz through future integrations that will bring further simplification to many of the tasks our dealers have to do day in and day out,” says Mary Beth Kime, Strategic Partnerships Leader at Trane Technologies.

The collaboration between Trane, American Standard, and the Workiz platform will offer far-reaching benefits beyond simplifying the ordering process, ensuring a seamless experience, from delivering immediate insight into contractor inventory status, equipment ordering requirements alongside crucial data on equipment availability, pricing, shipment details, acquiring parts from industry leaders and more. In the long run, the collaboration promises to enhance the industry, offering HVAC professionals greater access to the SaaS platform and equipment, along with valuable discounts.

“This collaboration with Trane and American Standard represents a significant leap forward for Workiz and the HVAC industry. We are honored to be chosen to collaborate with Trane and American Standard, reflecting our dedication to providing the most advanced and user-friendly solutions for HVAC businesses,” said Didi Azaria, CEO at Workiz.

As Workiz invests in the future, the company is set to launch a suite of AI features that will further revolutionize the HVAC industry. The partnership with Trane and American Standard signifies a shared commitment to innovation and convenience.

Welcome to the future of HVAC business management with Workiz – where innovation meets simplicity, transforming how HVAC contractors operate and thrive.