What is the work like?
As a heating and ventilation fitter you would install and repair the following systems in homes and businesses:
- heating
- refrigeration
- ventilation
- air conditioning
- fume extraction.
Your work could range from fitting air conditioning units in a department store, to installing large industrial boilers in a manufacturing plant. Your duties would include:
- following detailed installation plans showing where to fit pipework
- using tools and machinery to bend and shape parts, such as steel tubing
- joining together pipes and their casings (known as ductwork), for example, by welding
- wiring up systems to electrical control panels
- testing installations before they go into use
- answering call-outs to find and repair faults
- carrying out regular service and maintenance checks for customers.
You would work closely with ductwork installers who build and repair the ductwork that carries pipes and cabling in buildings.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You may be able to get into this career through an Apprenticeship scheme in engineering or plumbing. To get on to a scheme, you would normally need at least four GCSEs (grades A-C) in subjects like maths, English, science, and design and technology, or equivalent qualifications.
Alternatively, you could take a BTEC Certificate or Diploma in Building Services Engineering at a local college. This would teach you some of the skills needed for the job and may give you an advantage when applying for work. The course has options covering:
- heating and ventilation
- air conditioning
- refrigeration.
Another way into this career would be to take training in welding. For more details about this route, see the job profiles for Welder and Building Services Engineer.
You may need a driving licence if your job involves visiting clients.
What further training and development can I do?
Your employer would usually give you on-the-job training. You could work towards relevant NVQs, with options covering domestic installation, industrial and commercial work, ductwork and welding. These include:
- Mechanical Engineering Services (Heating and Ventilating) at levels 2 and 3
- Engineering Maintenance and Installation Level 2
- Installation and Commissioning Level 3.
You may also take further training in fire safety, first aid, ACS assessment for gas systems and appliances, and safe handling of refrigerants.
If you work on oil-fired equipment like heaters and cookers, you may find it useful to follow the Oil Firing Technical Association for the Petroleum Industry’s (OFTEC) training and accreditation scheme. Contact OFTEC for more information.
Part L of the Building Regulations – Energy Efficiency
Part L states that technicians fitting new boilers must hold the City & Guilds Certificate in Energy Efficiency for Domestic Heating (6084). This shows that you are qualified to carry out the work in line with Part L requirements. Contact the Energy Efficiency helpline or visit the Skills4business website for more details.
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries are between £16,000 and £20,000 a year.
- Experienced fitters can earn over £25,000 a year.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would normally work between 37 and 40 hours a week. The job may include on-call duties and overtime.
You would work on new developments and refurbishments. You could work in cramped, dusty conditions when installing pipework. Some tasks could be outside at heights and you would use ladders or scaffolding to reach higher areas. Safety equipment would normally be provided.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- practical skills for using tools
- a methodical approach to work
- excellent problem-solving skills
- good maths skills for making measurements and calculations
- the ability to follow detailed technical diagrams and building plans
- good teamworking skills
- a reasonable level of fitness
- a head for heights
- an understanding of health and safety.
What opportunities are there?
Typical employers range from specialist heating and ventilation firms to local authorities. You could also set up your own business. It is also common for several fitters to work together for a company, on a sub-contract basis.
With experience, you could be promoted to foreman/forewoman or site supervisor. With further training, such as a foundation degree, HND or degree level, you could work as an engineering technician, contract manager or design engineer.
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