How to Earn HVAC Certification

The best job opportunities in the HVAC industry are available for those technicians who have been certified and there are several routes or ways to earn that certification.  Having HVAC certification automatically puts you at the top when you are being considered or reviewed for a job or a promotion.

Courses can be taken online or in person, and sometimes people opt solely for an apprenticeship over a classroom, though some kind of apprenticeship is typically required no matter what type of education is pursued.  After education is complete, a prospective HVAC technician must pursue HVAC certification.

Types of HVAC Certifications

It’s required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that anyone seeking to become an HVAC technician receive one of four types of HVAC certification. All these certifications are related to the topics of safe chemical disposal and environmental conservation. You have to make sure you get the required certification as per your area of specialization.

1. Type 1 – This certification is required for technicians servicing small appliances like vending machines, window air conditioners, small domestic refrigerators etc
2. Type 2 – This is required by technicians who service as well as dispose of equipment that use a high pressure refrigerant. Some examples of such equipment would be residential air conditioners, heat pumps, supermarket refrigeration etc
3. Type 3 – This is required by technicians who service as well as dispose off equipments that use a low pressure refrigerant. These would mainly be chillers
4. Type 4 – Universal – This Universal certification is required for technicians who service all the different types of equipment – basically a combination of Types 1 – 3.

You can choose to take one or more of these certifications depending on your requirement. The Universal certification test paper normally consists of 100 marks worth of objective, multiple choice questions which include questions from the previous three certification tests as well.

Eligibility criteria for certification test is not very stringent but primarily some amount of formal HVAC training at a reputed institute can play an important role in determining how well you do in the test. Having some practical work experience can also help greatly.

HVAC Certification Requirements

The North American Technicians Excellence (NATE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) both offer HVAC certification. Those who are interested in becoming nationally certified should consider becoming certified through NATE. To become certified, it generally required to have completed an extensive program that typically lasts from six months to two years. The program should prepare you to pass the following exams:

1. Entry level local gas fitters exam or fuel license.
2. EPA refrigerant handler’s certification exam for a type 1 and type 2 license (residential and commercial HVACR systems).
3. NATE level certifications which consist of installation core exam and one specialty exam in air conditioning, heat pump, gas, oil, or air distribution.

How long does it take for HVAC Certification

The length of time to get the HVAC certification itself is not that long, as it simply involves taking a test, and states typically offer these on an ongoing basis. However, in order to take the test, students must have completed the necessary amount of schooling, and that can vary. As mentioned above, HVAC education can take, on average, between six months to two years. If pursuing an apprenticeship, the process may take even longer (up to 4 years). It usually takes two years for an HVAC technician to be considered proficient in their field.

HVAC Certification Schools

The exam to become certified will usually be supplied at the school where training is taking place. Alternatively, information will be provided on how to sit the exam after successful completion of the course or apprenticeship if training has been provided through a company. Some states do not require certification such as North Dakota, Colorado and Wyoming – however, it is recommended to become certified to prevent any possible future limitations. Organizations like Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors or the Air Conditioning Contractors of America can also provide some helpful information for anyone seeking certification.  Learn more about HVAC Schools.

There are a variety of different paths to take that lead to HVAC certification, but in most states, it all culminates with an exam. This enables the HVAC student to become a certified HVAC professional, and to practice their trade either in their state or nationwide.

In conclusion, if you are really serious about your career as an HVAC technician and want to make more money and stay on the top, it is advisable to sit for one or more of these exams and get your certification at the earliest.