HVAC Professional Conduct and Code of Ethics

As an HVAC technician, you obviously need to have technical expertise. You may also need good “soft” skills like interpersonal skills, especially when you work closely with customers. Depending on your range of responsibilities, business acumen and administrative knowledge may be vital, too.

Another aspect that is very important in HVAC is overall professional ethics. In an increasingly connected and transparent world, professional ethics are becoming particularly crucial. Unethical behavior can discourage customers from frequenting your business or may even get you fired from your job.

This is extracted from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE):

Represent HVAC industry in respectful & competent manner

Whether you’re working at a customer’s home, attending a professional conference, or meeting with an equipment vendor, remember that your behavior reflects on the entire industry.

Enhance public safety, health, and wellbeing

HVAC systems provide a comfortable and healthy environment for people. HVAC techs ought to prioritize the safety, health, and well-being of their customers whether it’s ensuring clean indoor air or food refrigeration.

Work according to industry standards

As a reputable HVAC technician, you are expected to adhere to the highest industry standards. Professional HVAC organizations such as ASHRAE have a set of standards and codes.

Comply with all national, state, and regional laws and regulations

To ensure safety, it’s extremely important to follow all laws and regulations that apply to the area where you work. This could, for example, include building codes, electricity codes, or environmental regulations.

Be responsible with financial, natural, & human resources

In order to for an HVAC business to run economically, everybody involved should be responsible with the available resources. Being wasteful and irresponsible can undermine financial interests or be harmful to people and the environment.

Understand equipment with regard to safety and efficiency

HVAC training emphasizes the importance of knowing how to operate equipment safely and efficiently. Make sure to stay on top of the latest HVAC technology and associated safety regulations.

Maintain customer service standards

Excellent customer service is a must in today’s competitive world. Being punctual, dressing appropriately, and communicating clearly can lead to repeat business and even promotions within your company.

Adhering to a strict ethics code can have long term benefits. Even small, unwise decisions can take you off course. Furthermore, customers expect ethical behavior. Building a reputation as an ethical business that performs good work may likely add value to your company. Lastly, following an ethics code ensures companies comply with regulations to avoid fines and other consequences. ¹