Are you good with your hands and excited about becoming an HVAC technician? HVAC technicians make around $25 an hour and have great job growth and security! You may have noticed there are multiple paths you can take when getting started in the field.
You can take HVAC courses, go to vocational training, or community college. You can also become an apprentice. Curious which HVAC training works best for you?
Wondering what the difference is between the types of programs and training? Don’t go it alone and spend hours researching online. Here you’ll find what you need to know about each type of course.
Our helpful guide has got you covered. Keep reading for everything you need to know about enrolling in HVAC training.
Types of HVAC Training Courses
Always look for a program that is accredited. Read online to make sure the program has good reviews and a good reputation. Ask to speak to the instructors to make sure they have experience.
Many programs offer part-time or flexible schedules. This way you can continue to work while you study.
Typically, you’ll need your GED to get started. From there, you have options. You can enroll in a certificate program.
You can also go for an associate or bachelor’s degree that will give you HVAC training and theory. Many of these programs also offer hands-on training as part of the course.
You can opt for online courses or in-person. The best HVAC online courses will walk you through real-life scenarios. You’ll also typically combine this online coursework with in-person training or work.
In addition to your studies, you may want to look into an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is not always required.
Check your state regulations to see if it is optional. Regardless, it will boost your skillset and job prospects.
When you apprentice, you’ll work with an experienced HVAC technician. They’ll train you on the job. You’ll increasingly work independently during the apprenticeship of three to five years.
Many HVAC technicians will take supplementary courses throughout their careers. They’ll stay up to date on changes in the industry and brush up on their skillset.
HVAC Course Fees
The costs differ depending on the length and type of course you choose.
An HVAC certification program can cost between $1000 and $15,000 and lasts around six months to a year. An associate’s degree program will typically cost between $15,000 and $35,000 and will be around two years.
Apprenticeships often cost around $500 to $2000. They usually last three to five years. You can always check for scholarships or loan options when looking into a program.
What Will You Earn After Your HVAC Course?
the average HVAC technician makes around $25 an hour. The hourly rate ranges from around $15 to $36 dollars an hour. This is dependent on your certification and experience.
The median yearly salary for an HVAC technician is around $50,500 a year.
HVAC technicians will always be in demand. The US government projects a 5% growth rate in the next ten years. Due to retirements, there will be many new jobs opening up in the industry.
What Will You Learn?
You’ll learn about heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and often refrigeration. If you want to work with refrigerators, you’ll need to take the EPA certification exam.
There are different specializations you can choose for the EPA exam. The first is for servicing smaller appliances only. You can also specialize in servicing and disposing of high-pressure appliances.
Or you can opt for low-pressure appliances. Lastly, you can choose to test for all three, called a universal specialization.
Many programs will include prep and this exam fee in your tuition, so be sure to check. After your certification, you may want to specialize.
Say you want to learn about commercial furnaces, boilers, and pool heaters. You can take further courses in the future to specialize. There are many HVAC tech courses you can take to build your skillset and qualifications.
You’ll learn both hard skills and soft skills in your course.
Hard Skills
You’ll learn to troubleshoot, install and repair heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems. You may also learn to repair and install refrigerators. you will also often learn how to layout and install low-voltage wiring.
You’ll be well versed in industry terminology and know how to speak to other technicians.
Soft Skills
You’ll want to develop your customer service skills. You’ll need to be ready to collaborate with co-workers and clients. Often, HVAC technicians work for construction companies and visit multiple sites per day.
They’ll also often be on-call on weekends and after-hours for emergency repairs. You’ll be visiting schools, hospitals, offices, and other indoor areas. Every day you’ll be interacting with different folks.
If you decide to go solo and work for yourself, you’ll want to make sure you’re always friendly. Word-of-mouth referrals will go a long way. You’ll want to be the go-to for folks when their AC or heating stops working.
Check for Certification
Some states require that you are licensed. Check here to see the requirements for your state. Make sure you’re properly certified before you begin working.
Check if your program offers post-graduate support. Many programs will help you navigate the industry once you’re done with your program. They can help you check certification and even put you in touch for apprenticeships.
Find the Best HVAC Courses Here
When you enroll in HVAC courses, you’re embarking on an exciting journey. You’re entering an industry with steady growth and job security. You can help people’s lives by keeping their homes and businesses running smoothly.
Whether you choose online or in-person courses, you have options. Ready to start an exciting career as an HVAC technician? Check out our free service to find programs near you.