When I got hired to work at an HVAC company as a receptionist, I didn’t even know what the acronym stood for.
- My initial job description was simply to answer the phone and schedule services.
Over the last six years, I’ve learned a lot about the industry. My job responsibilities have expanded to include inventory, reminding clients when it’s time to schedule maintenance, keeping up with technician certifications, billing, invoices and handling warranty claims. I am now able to speak knowledgeably with clients over the phone. I know that the majority of the repair calls we answer are due to a lack of maintenance. As home and business owners describe what’s gone wrong with their heating or cooling system, I have a good idea of the cause and what it will require and cost to fix it. When they complain over concerns with indoor air quality, I am able to explain the different types of whole-home air quality accessories, including air purifiers, germicidal UV lights and heat recovery ventilators. I am well-versed in boilers, radiant floor heating, heat pumps, ductless mini-splits, furnaces, air conditioners, VRFs and high-velocity heating and cooling systems. I can describe the Aeroseal duct sealing process, talk about duct cleaning and recommend the different makes and models of smart thermostats. My HVAC company has just gotten into smart home automation systems, and I’m now learning all about the different features. Because of my job, I now take far better care of my furnace and air conditioner. I’ve added a whole-home humidifier, increased the level of insulation in my walls and am diligent about changing air filters every month. I’ve improved the comfort of my home and decreased my monthly utility bills.