HVAC Schools & Programs

HVAC technicians earn a median salary of $53,410 per year, and the field is projected to add roughly 40,100 openings annually through 2032 (BLS, OEWS, May 2024). HVAC training programs prepare students to install, service, and repair the heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration systems found in homes, offices, hospitals, and industrial facilities. With increasingly complex technology like smart thermostats, high-efficiency heat pumps, and building automation systems, trained HVAC technicians remain consistently in demand across every region of the country.

What Is an HVAC Program?

An HVAC program trains students in the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) systems. Coursework covers thermodynamics, refrigeration cycles, electrical controls, ductwork fabrication, system diagnostics, and building automation fundamentals. Programs accredited by HVAC Excellence or PAHRA (Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation) follow industry-recognized curriculum standards. Unlike general maintenance training, HVAC programs focus specifically on climate control systems and refrigerant management, distinguishing graduates from broader facilities maintenance workers. Graduates are prepared to work for HVAC contractors, facilities maintenance departments, equipment manufacturers, or as independent service technicians.

What You’ll Learn

• Refrigeration cycle theory and refrigerant handling (including R-410A, R-32, and emerging low-GWP alternatives)
• EPA Section 608 certification preparation for refrigerant recovery and recycling
• Furnace and boiler installation, maintenance, and combustion analysis
• Air conditioning and heat pump system diagnosis and repair
• Electrical controls, wiring diagrams, and thermostat programming (including smart and Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats)
• Ductwork design, fabrication, and installation using sheet metal and flexible duct
• Indoor air quality (IAQ) principles, ventilation standards, and filtration systems
• System load calculations using Manual J and equipment sizing with Manual S
• Building automation and energy management system basics
• OSHA safety practices and confined space awareness

How Long Does Training Take?

Certificate programs in HVAC technology typically run 6 to 12 months and focus on core heating and cooling skills. Tuition for certificate programs may range from $3,000 to $15,000 depending on the school and location; check with individual schools for current pricing. Associate degree programs take about 2 years and include more advanced topics like commercial refrigeration, building automation, and energy management. Apprenticeships through the United Association (UA) or sheet metal workers’ unions typically last 4 to 5 years, combining paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Many programs include EPA Section 608 certification testing as part of the curriculum, so students graduate ready to handle refrigerants legally.

Admissions & Requirements

• High school diploma or GED is typically required
• Solid math skills, especially for electrical calculations and load sizing
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with tools and equipment
• Physical ability to work in attics, crawl spaces, and on rooftops, and to lift equipment up to 50+ lbs
• Valid driver’s license (HVAC technicians typically travel to customer locations in service vehicles)
• Some programs recommend basic electrical knowledge or an introductory course before enrollment

Licensing & Certification

HVAC technicians must hold an EPA Section 608 certification to legally purchase and handle refrigerants. This federal certification has four types: Type I (small appliances), Type II (high-pressure systems), Type III (low-pressure systems), and Universal (all types). The exam fee is typically $20 to $40 and the certification does not expire. Most programs prepare students for the Universal certification. Beyond the EPA requirement, many states and municipalities require HVAC contractors or technicians to hold a state-issued license, which typically requires passing an exam and documenting a certain number of hours of work experience. NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification is a voluntary industry credential widely valued by employers; exam fees are approximately $150 to $200, and recertification is required every two years. The R-410A safety certification may also be required by some employers.

Career Outlook & Salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $53,410 for HVAC technicians as of May 2024. Entry-level technicians at the 10th percentile earn approximately $32,046, while experienced technicians at the 90th percentile earn around $80,115 per year. The middle 50% of earners fall between $42,728 and $64,092 annually. Employment of HVAC mechanics and installers is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations, with an estimated 40,100 openings each year due to growth and replacement needs. Overall employment is expected to rise from 394,100 to approximately 417,746 over the projection period. Technicians who hold NATE certification and have experience with commercial systems or building automation typically command higher wages. Those who advance to project supervisor, service manager, or business owner roles can exceed the 90th percentile figures (BLS, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024).

Where You’ll Work

HVAC technicians work in a wide variety of settings. Common employers include residential and commercial HVAC contractors, facilities management companies, hospitals and large healthcare systems, school districts and universities, government buildings, and equipment manufacturers. The work is split between indoor and outdoor environments: technicians regularly work in attics, basements, crawl spaces, and on rooftops, often in extreme temperatures. Most residential technicians travel to multiple customer locations daily in a service vehicle, while commercial and industrial technicians may be stationed at a single large facility.

Online vs In-Person Options

HVAC training is a hands-on discipline. Working with refrigerant circuits, brazing copper lines, wiring electrical controls, and diagnosing system faults must be practiced in person with actual HVAC equipment. Some programs offer hybrid formats where theory courses like refrigeration principles, electrical fundamentals, or EPA exam prep are delivered online, but the technical labs require on-site attendance. When evaluating programs, look for schools with working heating and cooling training systems, refrigerant recovery stations, and opportunities to work on both residential and commercial equipment.

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Career Guide

Ready to learn more about what HVAC technicians do day-to-day, salary expectations, and advancement opportunities? Our career guide covers the full scope of HVAC work, from residential service calls to commercial system installation, along with tips on building a long-term career in the field.

Career Guide: HVAC Technician →

FAQs

What is EPA Section 608 certification and do I need it?

EPA Section 608 certification is a federal requirement for anyone who purchases, handles, or recovers refrigerants used in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. The certification exam covers proper refrigerant handling, leak detection, recovery equipment operation, and environmental regulations. There are four types, with the Universal certification covering all equipment categories. Most HVAC training programs include EPA 608 preparation and testing as part of the curriculum. You cannot legally work with refrigerants without this certification.

What is the difference between HVAC and HVACR?

HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. HVACR adds Refrigeration to the scope. In practice, many HVAC programs include refrigeration training because the underlying technology (the refrigeration cycle) is the same. HVACR-focused programs may place greater emphasis on commercial refrigeration systems used in restaurants, supermarkets, and cold storage facilities. The career paths overlap significantly, and many technicians work on both comfort cooling and commercial refrigeration systems.

Do HVAC technicians need a state license?

Licensing requirements vary significantly by state and locality. Some states require all HVAC technicians to hold a state license, while others only require licensing for contractors who pull permits or bid on jobs. Licensing exams typically cover mechanical codes, refrigerant regulations, and local building codes. Regardless of state license requirements, all technicians who handle refrigerants must hold the EPA Section 608 certification. Check with your state’s contractor licensing board for the specific requirements in your area.

How much does HVAC training cost?

Tuition for HVAC programs varies widely. Certificate programs typically range from $3,000 to $15,000, while associate degree programs may cost $10,000 to $30,000 or more depending on the institution and whether it is public or private. Additional costs may include tools, textbooks, and EPA exam fees. Many community colleges and technical schools offer financial aid, and union apprenticeships generally provide paid training with no tuition costs. Check with individual schools for current tuition and fee schedules.

Is HVAC a good career choice in terms of job demand?

The BLS projects 6% employment growth for HVAC technicians from 2022 to 2032, which is about average compared to all occupations. With approximately 40,100 annual openings from both growth and replacement needs, qualified technicians typically have strong job prospects. Demand is driven by new construction, system upgrades for energy efficiency, and the ongoing need to maintain existing heating and cooling equipment. Technicians with certifications and experience in newer technologies like heat pumps and smart building controls tend to have the strongest employment outlook.

What is a typical work schedule for HVAC technicians?

Most HVAC technicians work full-time schedules, but the work often extends beyond a standard 40-hour week, particularly during peak seasons. Summer and winter are the busiest periods, as heating and cooling breakdowns drive emergency service calls. Many residential service companies offer evening and weekend availability, so technicians may be on call during those times. Commercial and industrial HVAC technicians may have more predictable schedules. Overtime is common in the field and contributes to higher annual earnings for many technicians.

What sets a good HVAC program apart from an average one?

Strong HVAC programs are accredited by organizations like HVAC Excellence or PAHRA and feature up-to-date training equipment, including current-model furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps. Look for programs that include EPA Section 608 certification testing, offer hands-on time with both residential and commercial systems, and have partnerships with local HVAC contractors for externship or job placement opportunities. Instructor credentials and student-to-equipment ratios also matter significantly for the quality of hands-on training.

Salary data reflects U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for May 2024. Actual salaries vary by location, experience, and employer. Program availability and tuition costs vary by school.

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