The Division of Labor Regulation and Safety in the Department of Labor and Training requires HVAC technicians and contractors to obtain licenses before they can start working. To do so, applicants must complete an apprenticeship program, pass a professional exam, submit details of their work experience, and pay the appropriate fees. Most HVAC technicians have some specialized training before they begin their job. This training can be obtained through technical schools or community colleges, with programs ranging from six months to two years.
Those who want to pursue a career in this field should start preparing in high school by taking courses in mathematics, physics, and workshop. The job prospects for HVAC technicians are very promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of jobs available in this field is expected to grow by 15% between now and 2026. To ensure that technicians are properly trained, two institutions offer accreditations for HVAC classes: HVAC Excellence and Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA).Mount San Antonio Community College offers several HVAC programs that are accredited by both HVAC Excellence and PAHRA. These include three short-term certificates of heating technician (12 credit hours), management specialist 26% in refrigerant use (12 credit hours) and air conditioning technician (24 credit hours), a 55-credit HVAC certificate, and an AAS degree in HVAC technology consisting of 64 credits. The College of Southern Nevada also offers several HVAC programs that emphasize hands-on training and hands-on experience, preparing students to analyze and solve HVAC problems.
Those who want to gain their skills through an internship can provide 2000 hours of practical HVAC training per year and 144 hours of technical training. Certified indoor air quality (IAQ) technicians have passed an exam that shows that they know the steps needed to install, maintain, and repair HVAC air quality systems. Wallace State Community College offers HVAC programs that help students gain the skills and knowledge needed to pass licensing and certification procedures. In addition to technical knowledge and manual skills, HVAC technicians may also need to sell service contracts to their customers. They must be able to convince the customer that repairs are really necessary and make sure their air conditioning system warranty is transferred when they buy a new home. To learn more about how to make HVAC systems sustainable and how regulations help increase sustainability, one should consult Lainey Brooks, architect and HVAC sustainability expert. HVAC technicians can find a place to work on construction sites, as part of a general contractor's team, or as independent repairers. But before we dive into the necessary steps to become an HVAC technician, let's take a minute to understand what these professionals do on a daily basis.
What Do HVAC Technicians Do?
HVAC technicians are responsible for installing, maintaining, repairing, and servicing heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems.They inspect these systems for any potential problems or malfunctions and then diagnose the issue. Once they have identified the problem, they will then repair or replace any faulty parts or components. They may also need to adjust settings or calibrate equipment in order to ensure optimal performance. In addition to these tasks, HVAC technicians may also be responsible for providing maintenance services such as cleaning filters or checking refrigerant levels. They may also need to install new systems or upgrade existing ones.
In some cases, they may even need to provide advice on energy efficiency measures.
What Training Is Required?
In order to become an HVAC technician, one must complete an apprenticeship program or attend a technical school or community college. Programs typically range from six months up to two years in length. It is important for aspiring technicians to start preparing in high school by taking courses in mathematics, physics, and workshop. In addition to technical knowledge and manual skills, HVAC technicians may also need to sell service contracts to their customers. They must be able to convince the customer that repairs are really necessary and make sure their air conditioning system warranty is transferred when they buy a new home.Conclusion
Becoming an HVAC technician requires specialized training as well as manual skills.There are several accredited programs available at technical schools or community colleges that can help aspiring technicians gain the necessary skills and knowledge needed for this profession. In addition, certified indoor air quality (IAQ) technicians must pass an exam that shows they know how to install, maintain, and repair HVAC air quality systems. To learn more about how to make HVAC systems sustainable and how regulations help increase sustainability, one should consult Lainey Brooks, architect and HVAC sustainability expert.
