How to Become an HVAC Technician

Specializing in the installation, maintenance and repair of residential and commercial heating, cooling, ventilation or refrigeration systems, an HVAC Technician is an in-demand career.  If you are mechanically inclined, there are three basic ways that you can enter the field.  If you are successful you can position yourself in what could be your lifelong career.

• On the job training - Many companies will offer the right person the opportunity to assist an HVAC licensed repairman or an experienced technician and learn the required skills on the job.  As a trainee you will be expected to learn how to use the tools involved and perform all of the different aspects of the job.  As you are progressing the company may even offer you the opportunity to study either online or through self-study classes.  This type of training is valuable because you will be able to earn money as you learn this skill.


• Performing an Apprenticeship - There are formal apprenticeships available in this field that combines an educational component with paid on the job training.  These may last three to five years but will teach you all the components of the profession.  Some places to look for these types of Apprenticeships are Mechanical Contractors Association of America, Air-Conditioning Contractors of America, National Association and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States as well as other places.


• Earn a degree - Local community colleges have HVAC certifications as well as degrees.  You are able to enroll in a six-month certification program or complete a two-year degree in the field.  After receiving your formal education, you will still need to work in the field for one to two years before you will be considered to be competent in the many different areas.


• Licensure - Many areas require an HVAC technician to be licensed.  This will involve passing an exam administered by some type of state board as well as having worked in the field for two to five years.  In addition to your license, there are other certifications that you are required to have to handle refrigerants.  This also involves testing which is usually administered through the Environmental Protection Agency.