Can HVAC Technicians Do Electrical Work?
A residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system plays a crucial role in maintaining comfort at home. These systems are often overlooked, so when an issue arises unexpectedly, it can be frustrating. If you’re calling an HVAC technician for installation, repairs, or maintenance, you may find yourself wondering, “Can HVAC technicians perform electrical work?”
While HVAC technicians are skilled in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, the short answer is “No,” but we’ll explain why and when you need to bring in an electrician. Read on to learn when to work with only an HVAC technician and when an electrician is also needed.
What Does an HVAC Technician Do? 
An HVAC technician specializes in heating and cooling systems in homes or commercial properties. They install, repair, and maintain systems such as furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and ductwork. HVAC technicians ensure your home’s heating and cooling system operates efficiently so you can stay comfortable in all seasons.
What Does an Electrician Do?
An electrician specializes in installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems in residential and commercial properties. Electricians handle tasks such as wiring, circuit installations, electrical safety codes, and troubleshooting issues.
Since electricians work with power supplies, electrical panels, and high-voltage systems, they should be licensed and bonded. An electrician license signals that the professional has passed licensing exams and met a state’s requirements to perform electrical work. Being bonded means the consumer is protected if the electrician fails to properly complete a job, causes damage, or doesn’t pay for permits.
Why HVAC Technicians Should Not Handle Electrical Work
It’s important to understand why HVAC technicians are not typically qualified to work on electrical components. There are two main reasons why HVAC technicians should focus on their specialized tasks and leave electrical work to licensed electricians.
Licensing and Certifications
The bottom line is that HVAC technicians are not licensed electricians. They do not have the necessary training to work on electrical systems. Licensing ensures that a professional is qualified and trained in the tasks they are set to perform. An electrician license is typically granted by the state where the electrician works. HVAC technicians have a license that enables them to perform work on HVAC systems, not electrical work.
Safety Risks
HVAC technicians are not trained to handle the complexity of electrical work, which involves safety protocols to ensure an electrician is not hurt. It is unsafe for an HVAC technician to attempt electrical work unrelated to an HVAC unit. An HVAC technician should let you know if an issue arises that requires an electrician’s expertise.
When Do You Need Both an HVAC Technician & an Electrician?
Since HVAC technicians are limited to installing, repairing, and maintaining HVAC systems, there are times when an electrician may also be needed. Coordination between the two types of specialists is necessary to ensure the safety and functionality of some installations or repairs.
There are a few scenarios where you may want to hire both types of professionals, including: 
- Installing or replacing a central air unit
- When electrical issues impact an HVAC system’s performance (e.g., tripped circuit breakers, faulty wiring, malfunctioning electrical components, etc.)
- Upgrading an HVAC system to accommodate higher power needs
How to Choose the Right Professional
Choosing the right professional to call doesn’t need to be tricky. Follow these tips to learn whether to call an HVAC technician, electrician, or both.
Call an HVAC technician for:
- Routine HVAC maintenance
- Air conditioner/furnace issues
- Uneven room temperatures
- Proactive component replacement
Call an electrician for:
- Electrical failures
- Rewiring
- Circuit issues
- Intermittent power supply or outages
- Unusual sounds or smells coming from your HVAC system
- High energy bills
Once you’ve determined who to call, verify the professional’s credentials to ensure they are licensed, insured, and experienced.
Need an Electrician? Connect with PPNW
HVAC technicians and electricians have distinct roles and skill sets. It’s important to know which type of professional to call when your HVAC system seems off. If you suspect your HVAC needs more than routine maintenance, you should consider contacting both an electrician and an HVAC professional.
Powering Pacific Northwest (PPNW) is the go-to hub for trusted local electrical contractors in Oregon and Washington. Our fully licensed and bonded pros offer safe, expert electrical services. They handle everything from upgrading electrical panels to completely rewiring your home.
Find a contractor today.
