The HVAC industry covers a variety of tasks such as fixing heat pumps, installing air conditioners, or repairing fireplaces. However, technicians are required to perform their tasks both properly and safely, which means a certification will be in need to prove their skills and training. This article will analyze the information on HVAC certification and show you how to successfully obtain it.

what is an HVAC certification

1. What is an HVAC certification?

In the field of HVAC, or Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, certificates are used to measure the level and skills of specialists in the installation of machinery in residential areas and construction sites.

It is requisite that technicians complete their apprenticeship hours and pass tests in order to demonstrate they have mastered the trade before they are certified and licensed. HVAC certification is considered an effective way for technicians to confirm their expertise and gain a competitive edge.

2. How many HVAC certifications are there?

There are two typical types of HVAC certifications:

  • EPA Certification:

EPA Certification refers to the Environmental Protection Agency certification. HVAC technicians who work with refrigerants can complete this certification to obtain Section 608 Technician Certification. These certifications include:

  • Type I: Small appliances (domestic refrigerators,  vending machines, and air conditioners)
  • Type II: High-pressure appliances (refrigeration units, residential air conditioners, and heat pumps)
  • Type III: Low-pressure appliances (chillers,…)
  • Type IV: Universal (all the equipment mentioned above)

For EPA Certification, a candidate must pass at least two of the four types of tests above.

  • NATE Certification:

An HVAC technician needs a NATE certification, also known as North American Technical Excellence Certification, to qualify their level and skills in order to perform tasks. It comes in several forms:

  • Refrigerants
  • Servicing tests
  • Installation tests
  • Core units
  • Specialty parts

3. What are the benefits of an HVAC certification?

It is advantageous to achieve a HVAC certification in your career for the following reasons:

  • Better project opportunities and higher income
  • A better chance of becoming a marketable employee
  • If you would like to start your own HVAC company, here’s how to do it

4. How much is an HVAC certification?

The average cost of an HVAC certificate ranges from $1,200 to $15,000. You can register for the program to get one at a technical school or college within 6 to 12 months.

5. How long does it take to get an HVAC certification?

For one to become a certified HVAC technician, they must meet all requirements, including participating in an HVAC training program, completing an in-depth study of this field, and gaining enough hands-on experience. As a result, HVAC certification can take you two to three years to achieve.

6. How to successfully get an HVAC certification?

The following steps to become a certified HVAC technician can be taken into consideration:successfully get an HVAC

6.1. Step 1: Complete an accredited HVAC training program

A technician program should be completed less than the last 2 years at a community college or trade school like IntelliTec College in Colorado Springs. For candidates who have extensive experience or apprenticeship may not need this step to get an HVAC certification.

6.2. Step 2: Take an HVAC certification / HVAC licensing exam

  • HVAC Certification

A written exam that is closely related to the types of equipment and refrigerants you have to handle is a must-have criterion to be certified in HVAC Certification. 

  • HVAC Licensing 

The requirements to get an HVAC licensing vary in different states. While most states ask for an HVAC licensing, technicians in states such as Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, New York, Vermont, Missouri, Wyoming, and Kansas sometimes don’t need to own an HVAC state-wide licensing. 

Let’s take Texas as a typical example where you need to be at least 18 years old and have at least 3 years of experience as a technician on-site in order to qualify for the HVAC licensing exam. 

In order to successfully pass the exam on the first try, of course, you need to study and practice a lot. For better preparation, visit our website and take HVAC Practice Test. The practice tests and mock test will assist you in mastering diverse topics of HVAC, which are useful for your actual exam.

6.3. Step 3: Complete an HVAC apprenticeship

Enrolling in an HVAC apprenticeship program in an authorized organization will be your next step so that you can gain hands-on experience and put your knowledge and skills to practice. This should last within 6 months to 3 years. 

6.4. Step 4: Apply for an entry-level HVAC technician job

After completing a training program and having your own certifications, you now have the right to enter the HVAC industry. 

To sum up, holding an HVAC Certification has many benefits. It helps a technician advance their understanding of HVAC systems, enhance eligibility for work. It also helps them to connect to a recognized organization and qualify them for career advancement. Therefore, it is necessary for technicians to demonstrate the skills and abilities that need for the professional.