People ask me what it’s like to be an HVAC tech in Jacksonville. I tell them: bring your camera.
In 25 years of service calls, I’ve learned that the condenser is only half the story. The other half is whatever’s waiting for you when you open the gate.
The Welcoming Committee
Most days, it’s dogs. Big ones, little ones, friendly ones, suspicious ones. They see the van pull up and they’re already at the fence, trying to figure out if I’m a threat or a new friend.
I’ve had pit bulls follow me around like shadows, convinced I’m there specifically to pet them. I’ve had tiny fluffballs claim the passenger seat of my van like it’s their birthright. I’ve had bulldogs plop down right next to the condenser and refuse to move, supervising every turn of my wrench.
Dogs are part of the job. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
But Then There’s Jacksonville
This city keeps me on my toes.
I’ve walked into backyards and been greeted by turkeys. Full-on, tail-feathers-out, gobbling turkeys. Just strutting around like they own the place. Because they do.
I’ve had pigs—actual pigs—come up looking for belly scratches while I’m trying to check refrigerant pressures. Try staying focused on your gauges when there’s a pig smiling up at you. Yes, smiling. They do that.
And I’m not even going to get into the time I pulled up to a property and there was a kangaroo in the yard. A kangaroo. In Jacksonville, Florida. Just hanging out next to the AC unit like that’s normal.
Wildlife on the Job
It’s not just the pets. Florida is wild, and Jacksonville is wilder.
I’ve watched bald eagles hunting in customers’ yards. Seen mama geese walking their goslings across driveways while I wait to pull in. Had hawks perched on condensers, giving me the stink-eye until they decide I’m not worth the trouble.
Every call is an adventure. You never know what’s waiting on the other side of that fence.
Why I Love This Job
Some techs want the easy calls. In and out, no surprises, punch the clock and go home.
Not me.
I love the weird ones. The backyards with character. The customers who’ve built their own little slice of paradise—complete with whatever animals make them happy.
Because that’s Jacksonville. We’re not a cookie-cutter city. We’re a little bit country, a little bit beach, a little bit wild, and a whole lot of character.
And every single one of those homes needs their AC to work.
So if you’ve got dogs, turkeys, pigs, or kangaroos—don’t worry. I’ve seen it all. Just give me a heads up so I know what kind of snacks to bring.
Stay cool, Jacksonville. Keep being weird.
— Eric
FL Cooling | (904) 229-0611
