Become an HVAC Technician

HVAC is an acronym that stands for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning. HVAC systems regulate air quality, as well as control temperature, heating, and refrigeration for many types of structures. These complex systems create a climate controlled environment that makes it possible to preserve and transport important cargo, such as medicine and food, as well as ensure a high standard of air quality. Structures that have HVAC Systems include office buildings, schools, hospitals, commercial centers, retail establishments, and private residences. The skilled professionals who install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems are known as HVAC technicians. They perform an important service that cannot be replicated by the general handyman due to the complexity of the HVAC system.

Job Skills

HVAC technicians are trained in all aspects of the elaborate network of mechanical and electrical parts that make up an HVAC system. They are responsible for efficiently carrying out the operation of an HVAC system from installation to general maintenance. Most HVAC technicians choose to specialize in either installation or maintenance, but all technicians possess the knowledge necessary to perform both.

During the installation phase, the HVAC technician is tasked with properly setting up the HVAC system by connecting water fuel and water supply lines, air ducts, motors, vents, compressors, evaporators, piping, and other system components. HVAC systems must be maintained year-round in order to run smoothly. HVAC technicians who work in maintenance and repair will conduct a series of tests in order to diagnose any problems with system, clean out the system if necessary, and replace worn out parts. They also remove and recycle the chemical by-products of the HVAC system. In order to be successful in their chosen field, HVAC technicians must have a good understanding of math and chemistry, as well as mechanics and more specific HVAC-centric skills, such as temperature theory.

Starting a career as an HVAC technician isn’t difficult, but requires some amount of formal training. In the past it was possible to acquire HVAC skills through on-the-job training alone. However, advances in technology have increased the intricacy of the already complex HVAC system, and a focus on environmental concerns has added new scrutiny to the technician’s job. Modern employers now prefer to hire HVAC technicians with a combination of solid classroom time and on-the-job training.

Gaining Experience

There are two main ways HVAC technicians gain experience before beginning work. The first is by enrolling in an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are offered through local HVAC industry organizations such as the Air-Conditioning Contractors of America. The apprenticeship, a combination of in-class instruction and paid on-the-job-training usually takes 3-to-5 years to complete. Although apprenticeships are considered a great way to start in the industry from the ground floor, they can be unappealing for students or those who are not ready to commit to such long-term training. Fortunately, many community colleges and vocational schools offer HVAC programs, as does the United States Armed Forces. These programs take an average of 6-months to 2-years to complete and are an excellent choice for those who wish to get started training as an HVAC technician quickly.

HVAC School Courses & Pre-requisites

The courses found in HVAC schools will vary based on the credential being offered and the focus of the program. Some programs emphasize the newest areas of the HVAC industry, such as solar energy. These programs are appropriate for students who wish to work in a more specialized capacity. However, a basic HVAC program will cover all the skills necessary to install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems of all levels of complexity. The basic courses found in almost all HVAC programs are math, mechanical drawing, applied chemistry, electronics, blue print reading, computer applications, temperature theory and control, equipment design, construction, and installation. A well-rounded HVAC program will teach you the skills needed to install, maintain, and repair an HVAC system of varying levels of complexity.

In order to enroll in an HVAC program, potential students must posses a high school diploma or the equivalent. Strong math and science skills are also helpful. Students might consider taking remedial courses in these basic subjects before applying to any program.

Accreditation

It is very important for all potential HVAC students to ascertain whether or not their school of choice has been accredited by any of the accrediting organizations of the HVAC industry. Accreditation demonstrates that the school’s program is in line with the educational standards set by the industry and offers students a high level of training. A credential from an accredited school will be necessary should the technician seek certification later on. There are currently three accrediting agencies for HVAC programs: HVAC excellent, the National Center for Construction Education and Research, and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration.

Top HVAC Schools

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  Ashworth College

  Ashworth offers respected, affordable online degree programs and expert guidance to help you meet your goals while balancing work and family. Now you can get the precise training you need to become the professional you’ve always wanted to be. And you can go as far as your education takes you.

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  Penn Foster Career School

  Having the right skills is vitally important in today’s super-competitive job market. With online training from Penn Foster Career School, students are assured of learning up-to-date career skills that will prepare them for the jobs of today and tomorrow. Students at Penn Foster Career School can get the training they need quickly, conveniently, and affordably.

  Penn Foster is one of the world’s largest and most respected online education providers. Their programs are job focused, and they offer training for employment in the fastest-growing fields in business, technology, health care, and the trades.

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  WyoTech

  WyoTech is one of America’s leading post-secondary education schools that can help prepare students for careers in the automotive, collision/refinishing, diesel, electrician, HVAC, motorcycle, marine and plumbing fields. WyoTech takes a very personal, professional approach to career education, offering flexible class schedules, teachers who are seasoned industry professionals, and support systems designed to help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Even after students graduate, WyoTech’s Career Services department is there to provide ongoing career coaching assistance and help locating local employment opportunities. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Programs vary by campus. Not all programs and specialty courses are offered in all locations.

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  Everest Institute

  Everest Colleges, Institutes and Universities provides postsecondary education programs that prepare students for careers in some of America’s fastest growing industries, including health care, business and technology. Everest takes a very personal approach to career education, offering small classes, intimate work groups and support systems designed to help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Even after students graduate, Everest’s Career Services department is there to provide ongoing career coaching and help locating local employment opportunities. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

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  Lincoln College of Technology

  Lincoln College of Technology helps students achieve professional success through personalized career support and hands-on, job-specific education. our in-depth training programs are designed to meet the changing needs of today’s tough job market, and cover a variety of fields, including: Health Sciences, Business and Information Technology, Hospitality, Automotive Technology, HVAC Technology and Electrical Systems Technology.

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  Kaplan Career Institute

  At Kaplan Career Institute, we provide affordable, career-focused programs that not only meet the demands of the market, but also the demands of your busy life. We offer day and evening classes to accommodate your busy schedule. Our accelerated curricula give you the opportunity to earn a diploma in as little as 9 to 15 months or an associate’s degree in less than 2 years. Our instructors have professional experience and provide an inside look into some of today’s hottest careers.

  Kaplan Higher Education or its authorized agents and representatives may contact me via email or telephone to discuss these and other educational opportunities in the future.

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  Porter and Chester Institute

  Get the Career Training you need in as little as 9 Months! Looking for a new career but traditional college isn’t your thing? We understand. That’s why Porter and Chester Institute provides you with the hands-on training to prepare you for the career you deserve.

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  Pittsburgh Technical Institute

  As the market place continues to become more competitive, rewarding those with the right training for the job, Pittsburgh Technical Institute is ideally positioned to give you the skills you need to compete. In fact, you can choose to get your certificate or associate degree at our convenient North Fayette campus in several emerging industries, including:

  • Technology
  • Business
  • Health Care
  • Design
  • Building Technology
  • Criminal Justice

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  Everest College

  Everest Colleges, Institutes and Universities provides postsecondary education programs that prepare students for careers in some of America’s fastest growing industries, including health care, business and technology. Everest takes a very personal approach to career education, offering small classes, intimate work groups and support systems designed to help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Even after students graduate, Everest’s Career Services department is there to provide ongoing career coaching and help locating local employment opportunities. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.

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  Everest University

  Everest Colleges, Institutes and Universities provides postsecondary education programs that prepare students for careers in some of America’s fastest growing industries, including health care, business and technology. Everest takes a very personal approach to career education, offering small classes, intimate work groups and support systems designed to help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. Even after students graduate, Everest’s Career Services department is there to provide ongoing career coaching and help locating local employment opportunities. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.