If you are interested in a career in HVAC, apprenticeship programs are a great way to get the practical experience you need to succeed in the field. These programs are usually offered by trade associations and last for three to five years. Apprenticeship programs often start with an unpaid internship that prepares you to interview for jobs with journeymen in the HVAC field.

A typical HVAC system moves air through ducts to be heated or cooled, removed humidity, and then sent into a home or office. It uses filters to remove particles, spores, bacteria, and viruses from the air. It also makes use of whole-home humidifiers and dehumidifiers that improve the indoor air quality. They also reduce the dew point of the air, so that it feels cooler in the home without running the cooling system.

A central HVAC system can be split into two types: a ducted system and a ductless one. A ductless system can be installed in a single day and requires minimal renovation. Ductless systems are a popular option for people who don’t want to deal with the hassle of installing and maintaining ducts.

HVAC engineers generally belong to ASHRAE, an international technical society for the HVAC industry. There are chapters, student branches, and regions within ASHRAE that allow members to share their knowledge and experience and keep up with the latest trends in HVAC design. The association is a wealth of information for those who wish to pursue a career in HVAC.