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Start your HVAC career with this guide! Learn about essential training, certifications, and job growth to become a skilled HVAC technician.
How to Become an HVAC Technician: Start Your Career in Heating and Cooling
If you’re interested in a career as an HVAC technician, you’re in luck. The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry is rapidly growing, with a 9% job growth projected from 2023 to 2033. As climate control systems become more advanced and energy-efficient, skilled HVAC technicians are needed to maintain and repair these essential systems. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to become an HVAC technician, including necessary training, certifications, and career outlook.
An HVAC technician installs, maintains, and repairs heating and cooling systems, refrigeration units, and ventilation systems. These professionals work on various systems in homes, offices, hospitals, and other buildings. HVAC work often involves diagnosing issues, replacing or repairing parts, and following safety protocols for handling refrigerants and other components (Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers).
To become an HVAC technician, the typical entry-level education is a postsecondary nondegree award. This training is commonly obtained from technical and trade schools, such as Pinnacle Career Institute (PCI), which offers a focused HVAC certification program. Here’s what this type of program generally includes:
Certification is essential for HVAC technicians, especially for handling refrigerants, which are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). PCI’s HVAC program prepares students to sit for the EPA 608 Universal Certification, which includes Core, Type I, Type II, and Type III certifications. This qualification is required for technicians working with refrigeration systems and ensures they’re knowledgeable about safe refrigerant handling practices.
Other valuable certifications include North American Technical Excellence (NATE) certification, which can enhance a technician's credentials and may be required by certain employers (Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers)(Pinnacle Career Institute 2024 Course Catalog).
HVAC work requires a mix of technical and soft skills, including:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC jobs are projected to grow faster than the average for other occupations. The median annual wage for HVAC technicians was $57,300 in 2023, with higher earning potential in industries like wholesale trade and educational services. Due to an increasing emphasis on energy efficiency and pollution reduction, there is a strong demand for technicians skilled in retrofitting, upgrading, and installing new climate-control systems (Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers).
It's important to note that HVAC certifications and licensing requirements vary from state to state. Before beginning your career, make sure you understand the specific certifications required in the state where you plan to work. Below is a list of each state with links for you to check the relevant certification and licensing requirements for HVAC technicians:
By clicking on your state, you’ll be directed to resources outlining the required certifications, licensing processes, and any additional qualifications you may need.
If you’re ready to start a fulfilling career in HVAC, consider enrolling in an HVAC certification program like the one at PCI. This 40-week program includes online coursework, hands-on labs, and practical experience that will help you gain the skills and certifications needed for an entry-level position as an HVAC technician.
By following this guide, you’re on your way to joining an in-demand, well-paying profession that provides essential services to businesses and homeowners alike.
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