HVAC Certification, Licensing, and HVAC Training Programs

Although an HVAC school provides comprehensive training for an HVAC career, many students also receive HVAC training through an apprenticeship program. An HVAC class that specializes in a specific area can also help improve a student’s skills and job opportunities. Most HVAC school programs range from 6 months to 2 years in length, and can HVAC certification can be received through trade and community colleges. An HVAC class can be comprised of courses such as:

· Installation and maintenance of HVAC Systems

· Equipment construction

· Design theory

· Electronics

· Equipment design

· Maintenance and Repair Procedures

· Furnace Materials and Insulation

· Cutting and Soldering Pipes

An HVAC license is required for any HVAC technician or HVAC engineer who are involved with handling and purchasing refrigerants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administers an exam to various organizations, and the written examination covers three key areas:

· Servicing small appliances

· Low-pressure refrigerants

· High-pressure refrigerants

HVAC Certification is available through the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) board which offers an Air-Conditioning Excellence program. Certification allows students to apply for positions with higher levels of responsibility such as cost estimators, team supervisors, and managers of a business.

HVAC Online Training

A student who is interested from completing their education from a distance may choose an HVAC Online Training program instead. Through an independent study format, a student can still learn about the general rules and regulations of the industry, along with receiving HVAC certification through the Air-Conditioning Excellence Program. HVAC Online training can be extensive, and still provides solid training for an HVAC career.

The best foundation for pursuing an HVAC career can start as early as high school. Prospective students may choose to take subjects such as applied physics, electronics, plumbing, electrical work, computer applications, or mechanical drawing. A technician must also learn basic business practices such as how to draft a contract and fundamental mathematics.

HVAC School and HVAC Training Accreditation

An HVAC school or training program receives accreditation from the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology. Each school and program must also comply with all local, federal, and state regulations. The North American Technician Excellence (NATE) board is the only organization that administers the Air-Conditioning Excellence program.