Selecting the right career path is a lot harder than most people realize. Before you decide what type of job you want to pursue, be sure to consider your interests and passions. If you’re good with your hands and like thinking on your feet, then pursuing a career as an HVAC technician is a good idea.
Currently, there 332,000 HVAC technicians working in the United States. Before you can begin to work as an HVAC technician, you will need to receive certain certifications. Here is more information about what HVAC certification is and what you need to do to get certified.
What Is an HVAC Certification?
As an HVAC technician, you will be responsible for repairing, maintaining and installing HVAC systems. Many reputable HVAC services will require their technicians to get certified before putting them in the field. An HVAC certification is provided by an accredited organization and shows that an individual has proven their proficiency in the servicing and installation of HVAC equipment.
Become HVAC certified can provide such benefits as:
- The ability to analyze air quality and humidity issues
- A grasp of the fundamental principles of HVAC systems
- Enhance your HVAC servicing/installation skills
- Better career opportunities
- Improve your earning potential
Now that you know more about the advantages that come with getting an HVAC certification, we will discuss how to obtain this highly-coveted certification.
How To Get An HVAC Certification
The first thing you need to realize is that the HVAC certification rules and guidelines are different for every state. However, there are a few basic things you will need to do, regardless of where you live, to receive an HVAC certification. The first thing you need to do when pursuing HVAC certification is to provide either a high school diploma. The next thing you need to focus is finding a local trade school or community college in your area that offers HVAC technician training.
You will also need to pursue an apprenticeship with a local HVAC company. Once you are certified, this apprenticeship can help you land a job with the same company. Most companies provide continuing education for HVAC technicians. With your HVAC certification and these continuing education courses, you can make yourself a valuable member of the team.
Many states require HVAC technicians to pass a test to be approved for certifications.
Types of HVAC Certifications
If you are new to the world of HVAC repair/installation, you might be unaware of the various certifications available to technicians. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all technicians to receive a Section 608 Technician Certification. These certifications are given to technicians that receive education about the refrigerant they install.
The North American Technical Excellence (NATE) certification is given to technicians that exhibit knowledge of the duties they will perform while on the job. The information covered in this certification course will include installation tests, servicing tests and refrigerant tests.
If you are passionate about getting your HVAC certification, now is the time to start gaining the knowledge you need to accomplish this goal. Landing an apprenticeship with an experienced HVAC technician will provide you with a wealth of knowledge.
