Heating and Ventilation Fitter
What is the work like?
As a heating and ventilation fitter, you would install and repair heating, refrigeration, ventilation, air conditioning and fume extraction systems in homes, offices, shops and factories.
Your work could range from fitting air conditioning units in a department store, to installing large industrial boilers in a manufacturing plant. Your main 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 job through an Apprenticeship scheme in engineering or plumbing. To get on to a scheme, you would normally need at least four GCSEs (A-C) in subjects such as maths, English, science, and design and technology, or equivalent qualifications.
The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
If you are not eligible for an Apprenticeship, you may be able to 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 industry and may give you an advantage when applying for jobs. The course has options covering:
- heating and ventilation
- air conditioning
- refrigeration.
Another way to get into this type of work would be to go to college and train in welding. For more details about other routes, see the job profiles for Welder and Building Services Engineer.
You can find more details about careers in heating and ventilation fitting on the SummitSkills website.
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.
Where can I go for more information?
Foxwood HouseDobbs Lane
Kesgrave
Ipswich
IP5 2QQ
Tel: 0845 658 5080
Tel: 08080 100222
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
Related profiles...
Engineering Construction Craftworker
Refrigeration/Air Conditioning Technician
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Newly qualified fitters earn 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 Your job may include on-call duties and overtime.
You could work on new developments and refurbishments. Some of your tasks could be outside, for example on the roofs of buildings. As you would be installing pipework, you could be working in cramped, dusty conditions. You would also use ladders or scaffolding to reach higher areas.
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?
You can find work with employers ranging from specialist heating and ventilation firms to local authorities. You could also set up as self-employed. It is also common for several fitters to work together for a firm, as sub-contractors.
With experience, you could be promoted to foreman/forewoman or site supervisor. With further training, for example, to foundation degree, HND or degree level, you could work as an engineering technician, contract manager or design engineer.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
Engineering Jobs Network
Jobcentre Plus
Heating and Ventilating Contractors Association (list of companies)
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
Contact an adviser
Email
Call back
or phone: 0800 100 900
Bilingual advisers available
Face-to-face advice
