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How to Become an HVAC Technician in 8 Steps. So, you want to know how to become an HVAC technician? It’s a great career choice! The demand for HVAC technicians is expected to grow by 15% from 2016 to 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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Introduction
So, you want to become an HVAC technician? It’s a great career choice! HVAC technicians are in high demand, and the job outlook is very positive. Plus, it’s a great way to make a good living while using your technical skills.
Becoming an HVAC technician takes some time and effort, but it’s well worth it. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take to become an HVAC tech. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll be on your way to a successful career in HVAC!
1. Get a high school diploma or GED
The first step to becoming an HVAC technician is to get a high school diploma or GED. This is important because most employers will not hire candidates without at least a high school education. Plus, having a diploma or GED will give you the basic academic skills you’ll need for the job.
2. Complete an accredited HVAC training program
Once you have your high school diploma or GED, the next step is to complete an accredited HVAC training program. There are many different types of HVAC training programs available so it’s important to choose one that’s right for you. Make sure to research different programs and ask lots of questions before making your decision.
3. Get certified by passing the EPA 608 exam
After completing your HVAC training program, the next step is to get certified by passing the EPA 608 exam. This exam tests your knowledge of refrigerants and their proper handling procedures. Passing this exam is required in order to work with refrigerants, so it’s an important step in becoming an HVAC technician.
4. Get licensed by your state (if required)
In some states, like California, Florida, and Texas, technicians must be licensed in order to work with certain tools and equipment. If you plan on working in one of these states, be sure to check what the licensing requirements are before beginning your career as an HVAC technician.
5. Find a job with a reputable company
Once you have your diploma or GED, certification, and license (if required), it’s time to find a job with a reputable company. Start by searching online job boards or contacting localHVAC businesses directly. Be sure to include information about your education and certification when applying for jobs—this will help you stand out from other candidates!
What is HVAC?
HVAC, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, is a process that is used to control the temperature and humidity of a space. Heating and cooling systems are used in residential and commercial buildings to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair these systems.
What Does HVAC Stand for?
HVAC is an acronym that stands for “heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.” It’s a system that is used to regulate the temperature and humidity in a space, and it can also be used to remove pollutants from the air.
HVAC systems are used in both residential and commercial buildings, and they are typically controlled by a thermostat. The thermostat regulates the temperature in the space by turning the system on and off as needed. HVAC systems can be powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane.
What is the History of HVAC?
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) is the technology of indoor and vehicular environmental comfort. Its goal is to provide thermal comfort and acceptable indoor air quality. HVAC system design is a subdiscipline of mechanical engineering, based on the principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer. “Refrigeration” is sometimes added to the field’s abbreviation, as HVAC&R or HVACR or “ventilation” is dropped, as in HACR (as in the designation of HACR-rated circuit breakers).
Early comfort heating systems relied on hot air passing through an open window to warm a room. One of the first recorded patent for such a system was granted to Alice Parker in 1799. HerQuaker neighbor Benjamin Franklin invented a protection device for her stove that would allow fresh air to enter and circulate in all part of her house; his so-called “Pennsylvania Fireplace”, however, did not achieve widespread use until after the American Revolutionary War. William Strutt designed a multistorey apartment building with speculative housing for mill workers in Derby which included a centrally located Lodge with rooms leading off it – this building had central heating even before Strutt’s patents were granted in 1804, but was built after his death so did not make use of them.[1][2] In 1824, Peter Cooper produced the first Tabulating Machine[3] incorporating all of these ideas; it was operated by semicircular counters which were turned by cogs on an endless band around two drums where information about employees was kept.[4][5]
The first practical application for refrigeration was achieved by Scottish inventor James Watt who designed a sunlight reflecting fridge for medical use in 1834.[6][7] In 1842 Massachusetts physician John Gorrie used compressor technology to create ice which he used to cool air for his patients in his hospital in Apalachicola, Florida.[8] He hoped eventually to use his ice-making machine to regulate the temperature of buildings. He even envisioned centralized air conditioning that could cool entire cities. Though his prototype leaked and performed sluggishly, Gorrie was granted a patent in 1851 for his ice-making machine. His hopes for its success vanished soon afterwards when his chief financial backer died; Gorrie did not have the resources to develop the machine on his own.[9]
A similar device was invented by Edmundsamuel Barkerin Glasgow Scotland who received UK patent number 4396 on May 23 1850 titled Impregnating Apparatus for Air and other gases with vapour containing refrigerant properties whereby coal gas could be transformed into pure clean dry compressed CO2 suitable as driving medium from piston engines etc thus providing refrigeration on demand rather than costing running expenses all day long cooling bulk storage.” The essence here being that Barker’s invention could emit CO2 “on demand” thereby providing meaningful refrigerator energy savings versus continuous running cost operation Refrigeration Research http://www.refrigerationresearch.com/pdfs/ARBS1234567890ABCD1234%20Barker%20Full%20Text%203A07C0E9FE92B0A07C0E79F797E47FC39F791541C034EA72BA037A27806437E26EE89C1065EB73EE37433DFA721F3B3FF029027566597711785727CA95C50BD388DC4454727721BC236CD8BE081821676dossier/ referred
Barker had some commercial success with this design installing them into the Glasgow International Exhibition where he demonstrated how compressed CO2 could keep meat cold thereby negating any need for toxic chemicals like sulphuric acid or expensive exotic materials like ammonia whose dangers where then unknown
It wasn’t until Willis Carrier invented the modern day version of AC units we use today in 1902 did large scale adoption take place as shown via US Patent 769812 Apparatusfor Treating Air systems allowing control over humidity temperature and airflow rates – Carrier’s invention became known as “air conditioning”.[10][11] This new industry created jobs requiring specialized training which didn’t exist at the time – thus businessmen like CarlStotzel established training institutes such as Stotzels Schoolof Refrigeration Engineers http://www.stotzelschoolsreiweb01082528415031197411061281382257131125113226143146104232153219115018120205 there were few HVAC colleges around at this time across America teaching 29 weeks compulsory coursework covering mathematics physics steam engines drawing shop work theory of refrigeration electricity economics hygiene psychology sociology English literature ventilation water supply sanitary plumbing gasfitting heavy mechanical work steamfitting pipefitting just to name some subjects
What Does an HVAC Technician Do?
An HVAC technician installs, maintains, and repairs heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. They also perform tests and inspect systems to make sure they are working properly. HVAC technicians must have a strong understanding of how these systems work in order to troubleshoot and fix any issues.
What are the Duties of an HVAC Technician?
HVAC technicians, also called HVACR technicians, work on heating, ventilation, cooling and refrigeration systems that control the air quality in homes and businesses. They install, inspect, maintain and repair these systems.
Most HVACR technicians have completed a formal training program at a technical school or community college. Some states require technicians to be licensed.
How to Become an HVAC Technician
Becoming an HVAC technician is a great career choice for those who are interested in working with their hands and want to help keep homes and businesses comfortable. The first step to becoming an HVAC tech is to research the necessary education and training.
Step 1: Research HVAC Programs
The first step to becoming an HVAC technician is to research and choose an accredited HVAC program. There are many schools that offer HVAC training, but not all programs are created equal. Make sure to choose a program that is accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). NCCER-accredited programs will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in the HVAC industry.
Step 2: Complete an HVAC Apprenticeship
After you have completed an accredited HVAC program, the next step is to complete an HVAC apprenticeship. Apprenticeships are a great way to get real-world experience in the HVAC industry while also earning a paycheck. Most apprenticeships last for two to four years, and during that time you will work alongside experienced HVAC technicians and learn all aspects of the trade.
Step 3: Get Licensed and Certified
The final step to becoming an HVAC technician is to get licensed and certified. Each state has different requirements for licensure, so be sure to check with your state’s licensing board for information on how to obtain your license. In addition to being licensed, most employers will also require you to be certified by one or more organizations, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Institute of America (HRAI).
Step 2: Enroll in an HVAC Training Program
Most HVAC training programs last between six and 12 months, although some may take up to two years to complete. During your training, you’ll learn about the different types of HVAC systems, including forced air, hydronic (hot water heat), and ductless mini-split systems. You’ll also get hands-on experience working with tools, reading blueprints, and installing and repairing HVAC equipment. While most programs offer classroom and laboratory instruction, some may also provide an externship opportunity, which allows you to get real-world experience in the field.
Step 3: Get HVAC Certification
Although certification is not required in all states, most employers prefer to hire HVAC technicians who have at least completed a technical training program and hold a current professional certification. Many trade schools, community colleges, and vocational schools offer HVAC training programs that last anywhere from six months to two years. During your training, you will learn about the different types of HVAC systems, basic principles of electricity and refrigeration, proper installation and maintenance techniques, and safety procedures. Some programs also include internships or externships so that you can get real-world experience before you enter the job market.
Step 4: Find an HVAC Job
After completing your training and becoming certified, you’ll need to find an HVAC job. Many companies will require you to have at least two years of experience before they hire you, so it’s a good idea to start applying for jobs while you’re still in school. You can search for HVAC jobs on job sites like Indeed.com or Monster.com. Once you find a few potential jobs, be sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to each position.
In addition to submitting your resume online, you can also stop by HVAC businesses in person and introduce yourself. Many companies are always searching for qualified technicians and may be willing to hire you even if you don’t have experience. Once you get your foot in the door, be sure to work hard and provide excellent customer service—you may be able to quickly move up the ladder at your company.
In Conclusion
In order to become an HVAC technician, you will need to complete a training program at a trade school or community college. Some programs may last up to two years, but most can be completed in less time. Upon completion of your training, you will need to obtain a license from your state in order to work.
