Professional certifications can be advantageous for tradespeople. They can prove your expertise, introduce you to a reputable company, and make you eligible for promotion. It’s critical to understand your certification options if you’re an HVAC technician looking to strengthen your credentials and resume. In this article, we’ll explain what an HVAC certification is, why getting one might be advantageous to you, and how to do it.
What is an HVAC Certification?
An HVAC certification is a professional certification for technicians that attests to their proficiency in general HVAC topics as well as the fundamentals of heating and refrigeration. Although certification for HVAC technicians isn’t mandated by the federal government, many states do, and the EPA requires certification for anyone who works with refrigerants, which includes the majority of HVAC professionals. Additionally, technicians can obtain specialized certifications for particular systems and pieces of equipment, such as residential boilers and commercial furnaces. Although there are many ways to become certified, it is usually given after a course or an exam. HVAC certifications are offered by numerous organizations, including:
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
- North American Technical Excellence (NATE).
- ESCO Group.
- Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES).
- Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association (RETA).
The Best HVAC Certifications
#1. North American Technician Excellence (NATE)
North American Technician Excellence (NATE) is a certification program that validates the knowledge and skills of technicians in the HVAC/R industry. To become NATE-certified, technicians must pass one or more specialty exams at approved testing centers. The cost of taking a NATE exam varies depending on the test(s) chosen and how many times they need to retake them.
#2. Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES)
The Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) is a professional organization that provides educational and certification programs for those in the refrigeration service industry. To become a member, you must submit an application form and pay the membership fee. Once accepted, you will receive a welcome package containing your membership card, certificate of membership, and access to online resources.
#3. Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA)
The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) is a professional trade association that provides education, training, and certification in the installation and maintenance of air conditioning systems. To become an ACCA member, applicants must complete an application and submit payment. To get certified, applicants must take an exam and pass it with a score of at least 70%. Certificates can be used as proof of competency.
#4. Building Performance Institute (BPI)
The Building Performance Institute (BPI) is a nationally recognized certification organization that provides comprehensive standards and certifications for home energy auditors, retrofit installers, and quality control inspectors. To become certified, applicants must pass an online knowledge exam, a field exam, two days of training, and an online business management class. Note that the cost of becoming BPI certified varies depending on the type of certification.
#5. HVAC Excellence Certification Program
HVAC Excellence is a certification program that provides professional recognition and credentials to individuals in the HVAC industry. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements and pass an exam to be eligible for certification. The cost of the exam ranges from $150 to $250. Additionally, the program offers continuing education courses to help certified professionals stay up-to-date on new technologies.
#6. Green Mechanical Council Certification Program
The Green Mechanical Council (GMC) is an organization that provides certifications for professionals in the mechanical engineering industry. Additionally, the GMC certification process requires applicants to submit a resume, transcripts, and proof of professional experience. After passing an exam, applicants will receive their GMC certification within four to six weeks. The cost of the certification program varies depending on the type of certification sought.
#7. EPA 608 Universal Certification
The EPA 608 Universal Certification is a certification program administered by the EPA that certifies individuals to work with stationary air-conditioning, refrigeration, and other related systems. It consists of three sections: Core, Type I, and Type II. The cost of the exam varies depending on the testing agency.
#8. Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) Certifications
The Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) is a non-profit organization that provides certification programs and educational resources to improve indoor air quality. To become certified, applicants must complete an online application, pass a written exam, complete an onsite assessment, and submit a portfolio of completed projects. Note that the cost of becoming certified varies depending on whether the applicant is a member or not.
#9. National Comfort Institute (NCI) Certifications
NCI Certifications provide technicians with the knowledge and skills to diagnose, adjust, and repair residential and light commercial HVAC systems. To get an NCI Certification, you must attend an approved training program and pass a written exam. Finally, the cost varies depending on the type of certification.
#10. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Certifications
ASHRAE is an international organization that sets standards for the design, construction, installation, and maintenance of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. It offers several certifications for professionals in the HVACR industry, including Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Certified HVAC Design Professional (CHDP), Building Performance Analysis Professional (BPAP), and Indoor Air Quality Manager (IAQM). The cost of getting certified varies depending on the type of certification, with fees ranging from $100 – $500 USD per exam plus any additional fees associated with obtaining study materials or taking preparatory courses.
What are the Benefits of an HVAC certification?
There are many benefits of getting an HVAC certification, and here are some:
#1. It offers you advanced knowledge of HVAC systems:
In-depth instruction on HVAC subjects like installation, equipment, and air quality is typically provided by certification programs. These courses are designed to give you more resources to help your clients, and learning about a variety of techniques and subjects can help you become a more well-rounded technician. Therefore, gaining certification could lead to improved job performance and higher levels of client satisfaction.
#2. It offers HVAC professionals eligibility for work:
Certain positions or locations demand certification. For instance, in order to proceed legally, HVAC technicians who intend to work with refrigerants must obtain an EPA certification. Similarly, many states demand certification for technicians. Therefore, to make sure you adhere to the rules for any projects you might want to pursue, it is advisable to obtain a certification.
#3. You get specialized knowledge:
Some certifications give you the opportunity to gain expertise in particular areas. A diverse set of skills can help you advance your career overall, open up new opportunities for you, and better serve the needs of your clients. There are specialized certifications available in areas like:
- Heat pumps
- Preventative maintenance
- Carbon monoxide safety
- Green Awareness
- Hydrocarbon refrigerants
- Indoor air quality
- Solar heating
#4. HVAC certifications offer you employment opportunities:
A certification can aid in your job search, whether you’re looking for contracted clients or a full-time position. Additionally, obtaining professional certification could improve your resume and set you apart from other job applicants. Note that employers and clients are more likely to trust your abilities if you have certification.
#5. It can qualify you for large-scale projects:
Because they are typically trained in working with large, complex systems, some businesses might prefer to hire certified technicians for large commercial projects. Consider becoming certified if working with commercial heating and cooling is something you’re interested in. Additionally, you can pursue certifications with a sole focus on commercial systems.
#6. You get higher earning potential:
HVAC specialists who are certified may be able to make more money than unqualified specialists. In particular, for a specialized service, a professional credential like a certification may enable you to bill a higher rate as a contractor. When applying for a raise or promotion as a full-time employee, obtaining certification may help you show your employer your value.
How to get an HVAC Certification
Below are steps to get an HVAC certification:
#1. Earn a high school degree:
HVAC education programs frequently demand a high school diploma or GED. Your preparation for a career in heating and cooling can be strengthened by taking physics, environmental science, and computer courses. Furthermore, while some colleges have programs for high school students to earn industry credentials, some high schools provide vocational training.
#2. Engage in HVAC training:
A formal degree is not required for all HVAC jobs, but it is important to be trained. There are several options for training: an accredited HVAC program, an apprenticeship, or on-the-job training.
- Accredited programs typically last six months to two years and focus on installation, maintenance, and systems.
- Apprenticeships are three- to five-year programs that combine classwork with practical experience.
- On-the-job training can be done by shadowing a highly skilled colleague and learning on the job.
#3. Get a state license:
Keep in mind that a license differs from a certificate. Additionally, you must possess the necessary licenses for employment in your state, county, and municipality. Therefore, you should find out the licensing requirements in your region and apply for a license accordingly.
#4. Get experience:
Candidates for certifications must have at least one to two years of field experience and a passing exam score. If not yet working in the field, aim to find an entry-level role.
#5. Pick a certification program:
Research the many organizations offering certifications and choose one that fits your needs. Pay attention to the requirements, timeline, and areas of focus. Finally, earn multiple professional and specialty certifications to grow your career.
#6. Take the required tests:
Industry organizations offer resources to help prepare for certification exams, such as EPA and NATE certifications, so consider taking advantage.
#7. Renew your certification:
There are various requirements for renewing each certification. The EPA demands a Section 608 certification, which never expires. Note that the NATE certification is valid for two years, while the HVAC Excellence certification is valid for five years. Therefore, keep an eye on your certifications and make plans to update them.
Which Certification Is Best For Hvac?
#1. EPA Section 608:
HVAC technicians who maintain, service, repair, and discard equipment that may release refrigerants into the atmosphere must be certified in accordance with EPA Section 608 of the Federal Clean Air Act. Therefore, before beginning to work in the HVAC industry, HVAC technicians must complete the Section 608 technician certification. The EPA created four different certifications:
- Type I – For servicing small appliances.
- Type II – For maintaining or getting rid of high-pressure appliances, excluding MVACs and small appliances.
- Type III – For servicing or disposing of low-pressure appliances.
- Universal – For servicing all types of equipment.
#2. NATE Certification:
The largest nonprofit organization in the country for HVACR and refrigeration technician certification is North American Technician Excellence (NATE). In order to verify HVACR technicians’ professional competency in service and installation, NATE certification tests them on their real-world knowledge of HVACR systems. Customers and employers rely on NATE-certified HVAC technicians to install and repair HVACR systems correctly.
What is the Most Common HVAC Certification?
The NATE certification is one of the HVAC technician certifications that is both the most popular and well-known. North American Technician Excellence is referred to as NATE. Furthermore, it is an organization that specializes in testing and certification for HVAC technicians.
How Many Certifications Should I Have in HVAC?
Depending on the type of equipment they work on, HVAC technicians are required to hold at least one of the four EPA certifications. Once certified, HVAC technicians are only permitted to make very small environmental releases of dangerous refrigerants while performing their duties.
How Long Does it Take to Get HVAC Certification in SC?
You need to have at least a year of experience working under the direction of a master mechanic or contractor in order to be eligible for a license as an HVAC contractor. Additionally, you need to accumulate 24 months of experience in order to get a journeyman license. One year of experience is equal to a two-year vocational program.
What is the Highest-paid HVAC?
In the United States, the majority of HVAC project engineers make between $81,000 and $150,000 per year. This wide range of salary potential suggests that, depending on skill level, location, and years of experience, there may be numerous opportunities for advancement and increased pay. According to recent job postings on ZipRecruiter, there is a large demand for HVAC Project Engineers in the American job market.
What is the Highest HVAC Salary?
Currently, the majority of HVAC designers earn between $54,000 and $82,000 per year in the United States.
Where do HVAC Technicians Make the Most Money?
The states with the highest average annual salaries for HVAC technicians are Massachusetts, Alaska, Hawaii, Washington, and Alaska, according to the BLS.
How to Obtain Florida HVAC Certification
In order to take the exam for a certified license in Florida, you must have either 2,000 hours of work experience or a four-year degree from an accredited institution and four years of relevant experience. You can apply to Florida Career College, Southern Technical College, or Tulsa Welding School, among other institutions. Online learning is offered. The range for tuition and fees is $3,000 to $17,000.
You must pass the exam after receiving the required instruction and training. Furthermore, you can enroll in a separate test preparation course, or some schools will include test preparation as part of their programs. The exam is given by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Additionally, to find out what exams are offered near you, consult the DBPR’s construction examination schedule. The agency may also administer exams at private institutions, like technical schools, in addition to their public exams.
Lastly, depending on the license, the renewal period varies. Paying a small fee and enrolling in a 14-hour continuing education course to learn about recent developments in the industry are requirements for renewal. For information regarding your renewal, look at the license’s expiration date.
What is the Cost of HVAC Certification
An HVAC certificate program can last six to twelve months and cost between $1,200 and $15,000. On the other hand, an associate’s degree can be obtained for between $15,000 and $35,000 and be finished in 18 to 24 months.
How to Obtain HVAC Certification in Texas
You must have 24 months of work experience working for a licensed contractor before you can become an HVAC Certified Technician.
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