HVAC Training
Congratulations on your decision to begin your HVAC career as a technician! You are entering a field that is in high demand, so your chances of getting a job and becoming an HVAC technician are more than excellent!
If you are interested in HVAC training and want to get started, fill out the form below to match online instantly and local schools offering excellent HVAC training. It only takes a minute to complete and is immediately provided free, with no obligation to register for any educational programs or services.
Find an HVAC Program That Works for You
HVAC programs are prevalent right now. Each home has recurring HVAC issues, so most homeowners have an HVAC technician’s number on speed dial! Always in high demand, HVAC technicians help keep homes comfortable and safe.
Please enter your zip code or select your state below to learn about programs in your vicinity and request enrollment information.
Getting Started
It can be overwhelming to get started in becoming a certified HVAC technician. Lucky for you, the experts at HVAC Training HQ are here to help! You’ll first want to select a program that best matches your interests and is available at your location.
If you are entirely new to this field, you will probably search for more introductory and beginner-level courses. We can help you find a suitable method that will help develop and enhance your HVAC skills.
Once you have determined the type of program you wish to pursue, you can begin selecting an HVAC training program near you. Some courses can even be online to teach almost any skill, topic, or hobby you can imagine. Online courses are highly convenient for individuals hoping to achieve their HVAC certification while continuing to work. It is essential to ensure an online HVAC course certification will valid within your state and that the training you will receive from the course meets all the requirements for full HVAC certification.
What Does an HVAC Technician Do?
You may be interested in becoming an HVAC technician but may not be sure what it entails. An HVAC technician installs, maintains, and repairs heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. HVAC is an abbreviation for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. A less common abbreviation is HVAC/R, where the R stands for refrigeration.
If someone’s air conditioning, heating, or fridge stops working, an HVAC technician will make the first call! However, it is worth noting that some technicians specialize in only one type of system, while others offer a broader range of services. In addition, HVAC issues vary based on your location due to weather conditions and more. Therefore, the expertise of technicians in each area differs as well.
Typical Responsibilities
- Oversee HVAC installations
- Troubleshoot and repair HVAC equipment
- Practically apply local HVAC codes on each job
- Provide excellent customer service
- Provide technical support in the field
- Collaborate with sales and engineering to develop product definitions responsive to customer needs and market opportunities
- Layout, design, and install low-voltage wiring
- Run after-hours calls as required
How Much Does It Pay?
An HVAC technician’s salary varies depending on their level of experience. This career offers good pay that covers a pretty extensive range based on skillset and location.
According to a 2020 study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov), the median annual salary for an HVAC technician is $50,590, which amounts to $24.32 per hour. The range starts at about $14.16 per hour and extends to $36.65 per hour.
The job outlook for HVAC technicians is excellent. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment will grow by about 8% through 2030. That said, technicians who specialize in new installations will likely depend on the recent construction activity in their area.
HVAC Certifications
Since HVAC systems are complicated, technicians need comprehensive education to understand how it works properly. This class will train on common problems and the best methods to repair these systems. Once they’ve completed an HVAC training program, HVAC technicians usually get more certifications to progress in their careers.
EPA Certifications
This type of certification is for technicians who work with refrigerators. To become EPA certified, you must pass an exam in one of the three specializations:
- Type 1: Small appliances (small air conditioners, fridges, dehumidifiers)
- Type 2: High-pressure appliances (high-pressure air conditioning or heating)
- Type 3: Low-pressure machines (low-pressure refrigerants)
You can also earn universal EPA certification, which covers all of the above.
State Certification and Licensing
At this time, 35 states in the U.S. require HVAC licensing or certification, while only 16 states don’t have any requirements. Since state regulations can change, verify your state’s requirements if you need to obtain a credential to work.
Other Types of HVAC Certification and Licensing
There are various specialized tests for HVAC technicians to become certified with specific types of equipment. Some, however, require a certain amount of work experience or HVAC training before you can take them. Nevertheless, these certifications can be helpful in the HVAC job market since they show employers’ specific competencies.
What to Expect on the Job
Once you complete your course and receive the appropriate certifications, you will most likely begin your career working for a construction contractor. That said, one out of 10 HVAC technicians is self-employed.
You will have to work in many locations, mostly indoors, from schools, hospitals, offices, etc. You will likely visit multiple sites on the same day, or you could do an ongoing project.
As an HVAC technician, you may need to be on call during evenings, weekends, and holidays in case of emergencies.
How Do Online HVAC Classes Work?
You can learn HVAC online if you can also earn a college degree! Even though these classes are not in person, online courses are designed to be interactive and simulate a hands-on experience. As a result, you often can practice critical HVAC measurements as often as you need until you get it.
Usually, there is also unlimited “lab” time to give you the best opportunity to learn HVAC diagnostics. In addition, real service call scenarios with questions and answers allow you to put your skills to the test on some of the most common HVAC problems encountered in the field.
Tips for Selecting an HVAC Technician Training Program
- Find a comprehensive curriculum that covers critical topics in detail
- Make sure your selected program has a good reputation
- Find programs that have highly skilled teachers
- Select an accredited program with solid qualifications
- Choose a flexible learning program if you have a busy schedule
- Make sure the program includes some hands-on workshop training
- Check if they offer career services support and help with employment
How to Become an HVAC Technician
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Aspiring HVAC technicians should have strong chemistry, physics, and other physical sciences skills if you have volunteer or work experience assisting HVAC technicians, even better!
Step 2: Complete an Accredited HVAC Program
Apply for a certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree program that features coursework in HVAC training where you learn theory and practice. You may also work alongside HVAC technicians for hands-on training.
Step 3: Complete an Apprenticeship (Optional)
You may do an apprenticeship in which you perform 2,000 hours of hands-on HVAC training annually and 144 hours of technical education for additional certification.
Step 4: Work in the Field
Get some professional experience and work in the field for a contractor.
Step 5: Get Professionally Certified
While HVAC technician requirements vary by state, this industry has specific popular certifications. To learn more about the numerous certificates available, click here.
Enroll in HVAC Training Today
There are many HVAC schools to choose from if you’re planning to pursue a career in HVAC. However, before enrolling in an HVAC technician program, there are essential factors to consider.
HVAC Training HQ is here to help you achieve your HVAC career goals. Whether you are looking for a beginner or intermediate training program, there is something for everyone. Find a program today based on your location and specialty preferences.