The field of heating, ventilation and air conditioning is a huge industry with an expected employment growth in the united states around 13% between 2020 and 2030. A high demand for certified hvac experts by employers. One of the easiest way to become a qualified HVAC technician is to get HVAC Certification. HVAC certification demonstrates your knowledge and skills like installing, repairing, and maintaining HVAC units and equipment in residential or commercial areas, check and control air quality, humidity levels, temperature in system and understanding the basics of HVAC systems. It can help you advance your career in the HVAC field.
In this article, we will give you detailed overview of the different hvac certification online available in the United States, educational requirements, 6 week hvac training and the best courses for obtaining these certifications. In addition to this, we will also discuss how to get hvac certified, the cost of all HVAC certifications, the state by state hvac license requirements for certification and the exams that you will need to pass to become certified hvac technician.
Table of contents
EPA Section 608 Certification
EPA Section 608 Certification is a federal certification and it is required for all HVAC technicians who work with refrigerants in united states. The EPA conducts a one-time exam that must be passed to obtain this hvac epa certification.
| Certification | EPA Section 608 Certification |
|---|---|
| Organization | U.S. Environmental Protection Agency |
| Level | Entry-level |
| Focus | Handling and disposal of refrigerants |
| Cost | around $150 to take the exam |
The EPA Section 608 certification covers the following topics:
1. Basics of refrigerants
2. Safe handling of refrigerants
3. Installation and maintenance of HVAC systems
4. EPA regulations for refrigerants
How to get EPA Section 608 certification
Here are the steps on how to get epa hvac certification:
1. There are many organizations in USA that offer EPA Section 608 certification. You can find a list of approved organizations on the EPA website.
2. There are four types of EPA Section 608 certification.
Choose the type of certification you need.
2.1 Type I: HVAC Technicians who work on equipments that contain less than 5 pounds of refrigerant.
2.2 Type II:HVAC Technicians who work on equipments that contain 5-20 pounds of refrigerant.
2.3 Type III: HVAC Technicians who work on equipments that contain more than 20 pounds of refrigerant.
2.4 Universal: Technicians who work on all types of appliances.
3. After selecting organization and type of certification, you will need to register for the exam.
4. This exam is a multiple-choice exam includes variety of topics related to refrigerants and air conditioning. Prepare for exam by attending online courses, practice exams, etc.
5. Take the exam. The passing score for the exam depending on the type of hvac technician certification you need.
6. Once you have passed this exam, you will become EPA Section 608 certified. Your certification will be valid for 5 years.
7. To get an EPA Section 608 certification, you will need to complete a training program and pass an exam. The specific requirements for obtaining EPA Section 608 certification vary depending on the program you choose
EPA Section 608 certification programs
There are a number of different epa certification for hvac programs available. Some of them are as follows:
1. The EPA Section 608 Certification Program from the EPA
2. The EPA Section 608 Certification Program from ESCO Institute
3. The EPA Section 608 Certification Program from HVAC Excellence
4. The cost of EPA Section 608 certification varies depending on the program you choose.
Benefits of EPA Section 608 Certification
There are several benefits to getting EPA Section 608 Certification are as follows
1. Increased potential for income.
2. Better prospects of employment.
3. up to date knowledge and skills.
4. Increased confidence.
EPA Section 608 certification is a important for all HVAC technicians. It shows your knowledge and skills in the safe handling of refrigerants. If you are interested in a career in HVAC, I suggest you to consider getting EPA Section 608 certification.
NATE Certification
NATE is the national standard of certification for HVAC technicians. It is regulated by the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) organization. The nate certification hvac shows that certified technician have the knowledge and skills required for installing, maintaining or troubleshooting an hvac system. HVAC certification cost can be vary in different states of USA.
| Certification | NATE Certification |
|---|---|
| Organization | North American Technician Excellence |
| Level | Entry-level, Journeyman, Master, Senior Level Efficiency Analyst |
| Focus | HVAC fundamentals, theory, and hands-on skills |
| Cost | Entry Level- $250, Master Certification- $500 |
Types of NATE Certification
There are three types of NATE Certification as follows:
1. Ready to Work: This type of certification is designed for entry-level technicians. It includes the basic knowledge and skills needed to work in the HVAC industry.
2. HVAC Support Technician: This type of hvac certification programs is designed for technicians with some experience. It includes more advanced knowledge and skills. Certified HVAC Professional: This is the highest type of NATE Certification. It includes the most advanced knowledge and skills like system design and installation.
How to get NATE Certification?
Here are the steps on how to get hvac nate certification:
1. There are many NATE approved training programs in USA that offer NATE Certification. You can find a list of approved organizations and join which is best for you.
2. Choose the type of certification you want The type of certification you choose will depend on your experience and education.
3. After selecting program and type of certification, you will need to register for the exam.
4. These exams are multiple-choice, difficult exams includes variety of topics related to refrigerants and air conditioning. Prepare for exam by attending online courses, nate certification practice test, etc.
5. Take the exam. The passing score for the exam depending on the type of certification you need.
6. Once you have passed this exam, you will become NATE Certified technician. Your certification will be valid for 5 years.
Benefits of NATE Certification
There are many benefits to getting NATE Certification, including:
1. NATE Certification increased earning potential.
2. Make you attractive to potential employers.
3. help you to learn new skills and knowledge.
4. Increased confidence to tackle new challenges.
5. Increased job opportunities
6. Enhanced credibility
NATE certification cost
Nate certification costs around $250 for entry level and $500 for master certification.
Industry Competency Exams (ICE)
The Industry Competency Exams (ICE) are a series of examinations that measure the basic competency of entry level HVACR technicians. The exams are administered by NATE.
There are three types of ICE exams:
1. Residential Air Conditioning and Heating
2. Light Commercial Air Conditioning and Heating
3. Commercial Refrigeration
How to get ICE Certification
Here are the steps on how to get ICE Certification:
1. There are many NATE approved hvac certification courses in USA that offer ICE Certification. You can find a list of approved organizations and join which is best for you.
2. Now register for the ICE exams online or by calling NATE.
3. These exams are multiple-choice, difficult exams includes variety of topics related to refrigerants and air conditioning. Prepare for exam by attending online courses, practice exams, etc.
4. Take the exam. The passing score for the exam depending on the type of certification you need.
5. Once you have passed this exam, you will become ICE Certified technician. Your certification will be valid for 5 years.
Benefits of ICE Certification
Here are some of the benefits of ICE Certification:
1. Demonstrate your competency as HVACR technician
2. Earn higher salaries
3. Increase your job opportunities
4. help you to learn new skills and knowledge.
5. Increased confidence to tackle new challenges.
HVAC Excellence Certification
HVAC Excellence Certification is a nationally recognized certificate for HVAC technicians. The ESCO Institute shall conduct it. This gives proof that a technician has the knowledge and skills needed to set up, maintain or repair HVAC system.
| Certification | HVAC Excellence Certification |
|---|---|
| Organization | HVAC Excellence |
| Level | Employment Ready, Professional Technician, Master Specialist Hands-On |
| Focus | HVAC fundamentals, theory, and hands-on skills |
| Cost | $1,500 to $2500 |
Who needs HVAC Excellence Certification?
HVAC Excellence Certification is not required by law, but it is a valuable credential for HVAC technicians. Many employers prefer to hire technicians who are HVAC Excellence-certified, and hvac-r certification can help you to earn more money.
Who's looking for an Excellence HVAC certificate?
The law does not need a certificate for Excellence to work in HVAC, but it is an importatnt qualification for technicians. Mostly many employers prefer to hire technicians who are Excellence certified.
How to get HVAC Excellence Certification?
Following are two ways to get HVAC Excellence Certification:
1. Register for hvac certification classes and pass the test. This is easiest way to obtain a Excellence certificate. Different training courses are available now a days, select suitable for you.
2. you can get Excellence certificate, if you earn Continuing Education Units during your course of study. Taking training courses, attending seminars or reading industry publications is a way of obtaining CEU.
Benefits of HVAC Excellence Certification
There are many benefits to getting Excellence Certification, including:
1. Excellence Certification increased earning potential.
2. Make you attractive to potential employers.
3. help you to learn new skills and knowledge.
4. Increased confidence to tackle new challenges.
HVAC Excellence offers a variety of certifications as follows 1. Principles of Electrical and Refrigeration Theory
2. Combustion Analysis
3. Electric Heat
4. Gas Heat
5. Heat Pump Installer
6. Heat Pump Service
7. Light Commercial Air Conditioning
8. Light Commercial Refrigeration
9. Residential Air Conditioning
10. Residential & Light Commercial Hydronic Heat
How to choose the right HVAC Excellence certification
HVAC certification online cost can vary accoring to level of certification,curriculm, etc.Choose right HVAC Excellence certification depending on your career goals and where you want to work.With Excellence certification in specific area will give you edge in job market.
Refrigeration Service Engineers Society
The Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) is a non-profit organization aims at improving HVACR (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) industry. RSES was founded in 1933.They have a headquarter in Schaumburg, Illinois.
The Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) offers two levels of HVAC certification are as follows
1. Certificate Member (CM): This certification is designed for HVACR technicians who have a basic understanding of the hvac principles and practices of the industry. This exam covers topics such as refrigeration theory, air conditioning, heat pumps and safety. To take the CM exam, you need at least two years of experience in the HVACR industry.
2. Certified Refrigeration Technician (CRT): This certification is designed for HVACR technicians who have a more advanced understanding of the principles and practices of the hvac industry. This exam covers topics such as refrigeration theory, air conditioning, heat pumps, safety, and troubleshooting. To take the CRT exam, you need at least four years of experience in the HVACR industry.
Eligibility
You must meet the following requirements to take part in RSES exam.
1. Be a member of RSES
2. Have a high school diploma or equivalent
3. Have at least two years of experience in the HVACR industry
how to get Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) certification
Here are the steps on how to get RSES HVAC certification:1. To take CM or CRT exam, You must be a member of RSES. You can join RSES online or by mail.
2. You must have required experience, to take CM or CRT exam.
3. These exams are multiple-choice, difficult exams includes variety of topics related to refrigerants and air conditioning. Prepare for exam by attending online courses, practice exams, etc.
4. Take the exam. The passing score for the exam depending on the type of certification you need.
5. Once you have passed this exam, you will become RSES Certified technician.
Benefits of RSES HVAC certification
Following are some of the benefits of RSES HVAC certification
1. Increased earning potential
2. Improved job prospects
3. Enhanced professional development
4. Increased confidence
5. up to date knowledge and skills.
Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association (RETA)
Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association (RETA) is a non-profit organization aims at professional development of HVAC operators and technicians.
RETA offers three levels of HVAC certification are as follows
1. Certified Assistant Refrigeration Operator (CARO)
2. Certified Refrigeration Systems Technician (CRST)
3. Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Specialist (RAES)
| Certif -ication | Requirements | Exam Covers |
|---|---|---|
| CARO | High school diploma or equivalent | Basic knowledge of refrigeration theory, air conditioning, heat pumps, safety. |
| CRST | High school diploma or equivalent, 2 years of experience | Working knowledge of refrigeration theory, air conditioning, heat pumps, safety, troubleshooting. |
| RAES | High school diploma or equivalent, 4 years of experience | Comprehensive knowledge of refrigeration theory, air conditioning, heat pumps, safety, troubleshooting, advanced refrigeration systems. |
how to get RETA certification
Here are the steps on how to get RETA HVAC certification:
1. To take RETA exam, You must be a member of RETA . You can join RETA online or by mail.
2. You must have required experience, to take CARO, CRST, or RAES exam.
3. These exams are multiple-choice, difficult exams includes variety of topics related to refrigerants and air conditioning. Prepare for exam by attending online courses, practice exams, etc.
4. Take the exam. The passing score for the exam depending on the type of certification you need.
5. Once you have passed this exam, you will become RETA Certified technician.
Benefits of RETA certification
Following are some of the benefits of RETA HVAC certification:
1. Increased earning potential
2. Improved job prospects
3. Enhanced professional development
4. Increased confidence
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) offers a different certifications for technicians in the HVACR industry. Certifications of ASHRAE are acknowledged worldwide, showing knowledge and skills of hvac technician in various areas.
The following 9 different ASHRAE certifications as follows
1. CHD (Certified HVAC Designer) The certification shows the ability to assess building systems and site conditions; analyse and evaluate equipment and energy consumption; and recommend strategies for maximising utilisation of building resources.
2. BCxP (Building Commissioning Professional) This certificate shows the ability to lead, plan, coordinate and manage a team responsible for performing commissioning processes in new or existing buildings.
3. BEAP (Building Energy Assessment Professional)This certification shows the ability to assess energy performance of buildings and recommend strategies for improving their efficiency.
4. BEMP (Building Energy Modeling Professional) This certification shows that building simulation software can be used for the purpose of modelling energy performance in buildings.
5. HBDP (High-Performance Building Design Professional) The ability to design high performance buildings which are energy efficient, safe and sustainable is validated by this certification.
6. HFDP (Healthcare Facility Design Professional) That certification shows the competence of a healthcare facility designer to develop health facilities that are safe, comforting and effective.
7. OMPP (Operations & Performance Management Professional) The competency in the management, optimisation and implementation of HVACR systems are validated by this certification.
How to get ASHRAE certification
ASHRAE offers different certifications, you can choose one which is good for your career. Here are the steps on how to get ASHRAE certification:
1. Meet the eligibility requirements like education, experience, and professional development hours.
2. After selecting type of certification, you will need to register for the exam.
3. This exam is a multiple-choice, computer-based exam includes variety of topics related to refrigerants and air conditioning. Prepare for exam by attending online courses, practice exams, etc.
4. Take the exam. The passing score for the exam depending on the type of certification you need.
5. Once you have passed this exam, you will become ASHRAE certified. Your universal hvac certification will be valid for 5 years.
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