How to Become a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technician

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technicians are modern stewards of human comfort. These professionals install and maintain heating and cooling systems for homes and workplaces.

HVAC technology is becoming more and more popular as a career. HVAC students learn everything they need to secure a job and excel in the field. Read on to learn more about how to become an HVAC professional.

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technicians are responsible for the installation and maintenance of heating and cooling systems in residences and corporations. During HVAC training, students can expect to learn everything they need to secure a job and excel in the field.

Students have three options when it comes to HVAC training. Students should choose the option that works best with their different schedules, budgets, and learning and personal needs. Most programs take around two years to complete. Still, they can range from six months and five years (for apprenticeships).

With the constant demand for temperature control in both residential and commercial spaces, HVAC professionals are always needed. To successfully pursue an education in this field, learners should be aware of the best HVAC training programs available to them. In addition to in-person training, those who want to learn the fundamentals of HVAC systems can gain HVAC training through an online certification program. These certifications suit those looking for entry-level positions or early-stage wage increases.

With the increasingly complex nature of heating and cooling systems, career opportunities are growing for professionals in this field. Those with HVAC training can expect a 4% job growth from 2019-2029, according to the VU.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Most HVAC technicians work in homes, schools, office buildings, hospitals, and factories. Competency in computers and electronics is encouraged to get ahead in the field. As technicians progress through their career, many HVAC technicians specialize in installation, maintenance, or repair.

Students can undergo HVAC training through a technical school, a community college, or an apprenticeship program. All options hold value. Regardless of program type, HVAC training teaches students how to install and maintain heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.

Technicians should gain a deep understanding of the mechanics involved and the design, troubleshooting, and physical requirements of the job. Job opportunities for graduates include HVAC technician, designer, manufacturer, and HVAC company owner.

John Gorrie is considered a father of air conditioning and refrigeration. He advocated for suspending ice from the ceilings of patients’ rooms to make their rooms more comfortable.

After inventor Willis Carrier designed an air conditioning unit for movie theaters, Americans of every class were able to enjoy the comfort provided by the machine.

It’s becoming increasingly popular for new homes to be retrofitted with more efficient energy systems. Geothermal and energy management and storage systems can reduce energy usage even in peak summer hours.

HVAC technicians who understand computer systems and troubleshooting tend to enjoy higher employment rates. Many companies struggle to find and retain technicians to work with the increasingly complex systems.

Below, we break down HVAC programs offered through career and technical schools, community colleges, and apprenticeship programs..

Time to Complete: 2 years
Credential Earned: Certificate (opportunities for licensure available)

Career and technical HVAC programs make sure students build the skills to succeed. Learners also gain the knowledge to pass certifications such as the EPA 608 exam. Subjects include Freon recovery legislation, air conditioning (cooling), air conditioning (heating), and troubleshooting. Career and technical schools entail 250-300 credit hours. Students who cannot maintain traditional schedules can choose between day and night classes.

Below is a list of common courses for HVAC professionals. These courses teach students to operate, repair, and install heating and cooling systems.  Students also learn the laws and legislation that impact installation and disposal.

Time to Complete: 6 months – 2 years
Credential Earned: Associate degree or certificate, depending on school program

Students with high school diplomas or GED certificates can pursue HVAC training at a community college. Community colleges are like technical schools. They make sure graduates know how to work on a variety of heating systems. Community college programs also explore heat load calculation and system design. Students learn about air duct fabrication and calculation as well. Learners should consider their educational goals when looking into community college HVAC programs. The most common community college program leads to an associate of occupational studies. Some may also provide technician certificates.

Read on for a sampling of community college course options. Lower-level courses cover basic heating systems. Higher-level ones explore specific methods of heating and cooling.

Time to Complete: Approximately 5 years
Credential Earned: Journeyman status

Apprenticeship programs are offered by both trade unions and privately owned businesses. Apprentices must complete approximately 8,000-10,000 hours of training, and in some cases are also required to attend related instruction courses. During this time apprentices learn the ins-and-outs of the HVAC trade. They are often paid foTrade unions and private businesses may offer apprenticeship programs. Apprentices must complete 8,000-10,000 hours of training. In some cases, they must attend related instruction courses. During this time, apprentices learn the ins-and-outs of the HVAC trade. They often receive pay for their labor at an apprentice rate. Apprentices may work their way up to a journeyman’s rate throughout the course of the program. Apprentices must be age 18 or older. They should hold a high school diploma or GED certificate. Apprentices must perform physical tasks and pass an entry examination.

Many apprenticeship programs incorporate classroom elements into HVAC training. The following list highlights skills specific to apprenticeships.

HVAC training options include community college, technical school, and apprenticeship programs. Choosing can feel overwhelming. Students should consider the benefits of each option when making this decision.

Given the increasingly complex nature of heating and cooling systems, career opportunities for HVAC professionals are growing.

Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers can expect an average job growth rate (4%) from 2019-2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Most HVAC technicians work as plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning contractors. As technicians progress through their career, they may specialize in installation, maintenance, or repair.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2014)

Due to the toxic and volatile nature of the materials and systems HVAC technicians work with, some certifications are either required or strongly encouraged for professionals to enter the field. Some are specific to state or federal law. Others focus on honing skills that make professionals more competent and qualified.

With the constant demand for temperature control in both residential and commercial spaces, HVAC professionals are always needed. To successfully pursue an education in this field, students should learn about the best HVAC training programs available to them.

We considered all schools offering HVAC training to rank the top programs in the country. Our ranking accounts for variables such as cost, financial aid, graduation rate, and student-to-teacher ratios. View our list of the top HVAC training programs below.