Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration are critical services in our world today, which has led to an increase in the need for HVAC technicians.1 But before you can pursue this growing career path, you may need to earn at least one HVAC certification.

Certifications are often viewed as necessary in this industry for safety and quality reasons. You wouldn’t want just anyone to work on your broken A/C when a hot day is expected. Earning your HVAC certification shows potential customers and employers that you have the knowledge and expertise to safely install, heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems (as well as repair and maintain them). An HVAC certification can also demonstrate you know how to diagnose and fix problems that may arise. If you’re interested in taking this step, read on to learn more about how to get your HVAC certification.

Prepare for your HVAC certifications with Dorsey College!

What is a HVAC certification?

A certification in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning is your way to show employers and customers that you’re an HVAC expert. No matter which HVAC certificate you earn, you’re proving you have the skills and knowledge necessary to install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems. Most importantly, you’re proving you know how to do these things safely!

How do you get your HVAC certification? By learning the skills you need through a course or program, and then sitting for an exam. Depending on the certification you pursue, you’ll be tested to show you know how to:

• Install components and wiring
• Inspect HVACR systems and components
• Diagnose a problem in a system and recommend fixes
• Recommend maintenance to improve system performance
• Discuss system concerns or malfunctions with customers
• And more

HVAC certifications are crucial for safety in the industry. They’re also important for people who want to advance in their careers. Earning your HVAC certification not only enhances your credibility, but a certification can also bring opportunities for specialization or advanced training.

Types of HVAC Certifications

There are a few kinds of HVAC certifications. It’s important to research all of the requirements for the state you plan to work in. Keep in mind that some states may have additional requirements. It’s important to fully research what’s required so you can set yourself up for success.

Some of the more popular types of HVAC certificates include:

• EPA Section 608 Certification: This is the certificate required by the EPA. There are four types of certifications: Type I (small appliances), Type II (high-pressure appliances), Type III (low-pressure appliances), and Universal covers all the above.2
• NATE (North American Technician Excellence) Certification: Designed by technicians for technicians, this certificate covers a wide range of things you need to know as an HVAC tech, from basic installation to more advanced skills.
• RETA (Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association) Certification: For technicians who want to specialize in industrial refrigeration operation and concepts.

Benefits of Getting Certified

Earning your HVAC certification is crucial for career advancement and success. With your certification, you can show that:

• Your work is held to industry standards
• You can safely help people with A/C, heating, or refrigeration in their homes and businesses
• You have a demonstrated knowledge of how to install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems

There are other benefits to obtaining your HVAC certificate, too.

• Potential for increased job opportunities
• Enhanced credibility
• Access to advanced trainings and specializations
• Following federal law, as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires most HVAC technicians to be certified

How to get a HVAC Certification

Ready to learn how to get an HVAC certification? There are a few steps to take:

1. Research and choose a training program
2. Fulfill requirements for certification
3. Prepare for the exam
4. Take and pass the HVAC certification exam
5. Obtain and maintain certification

Step 1 – Research and Choose a Training Program

Your HVAC certification requirements will vary depending on where you plan to work, so it’s important to write out those requirements. From there, you can research different HVAC training programs to make sure they cover what you need.

When researching HVAC training programs, the curriculum may be the most important part. Make sure the program you’re considering includes a well-rounded curriculum with topics in:

• Heating basics
• A/C systems
• Electrical basics
• Ventilation
• Safety protocols
• Service and troubleshooting

A few other questions to ask while you research different HVAC programs:

• Who teaches the courses? Are they qualified instructors?
• Is the school or program accredited?
• How long does the program take to complete?
• Does it include a hands-on component for practicing the skills you learn?
• What career services are included during the program and afterwards for graduates?

Step 2 – Fulfill Requirements for Certification

As we mentioned, the requirements for earning your HVAC certification will depend on what state you plan to work in. Keep in mind some states may require more than just an HVAC certification. Other requirements you might find, depending on where you work:

• Some states or employers may require you to have a driver’s license.
• Other states may require a high school diploma or GED in addition to completing a specific HVAC technician program.
• Some states require you to be licensed in addition to certified.

Be sure you’ve fulfilled all the requirements you need to start working in a place you love!

Step 3 – Prepare for the Exam

The best way to prepare is to complete your HVAC technician training program. That’s because a respected program at an accredited school is designed to prepare you for certification. The program and coursework may focus heavily on the subjects you’ll be tested on when you sit for your exam.

Some other ways you can prepare for HVAC technician exam:

• Study materials and create flash cards to help you remember important information
• Find free practice questions online to help you get a feel for the exam content
• Write down questions you have about topics covered on the exam and study these concepts until you feel confident in your knowledge
• Ask your program instructors if they offer any study sessions or other support to help you prepare

Step 4 – Take and Pass the Exam

Time to practice the skills you’ve learned and earn your HVAC certification! Passing the exam is the most important step you’ll take in this process. It’s your time to shine by demonstrating the skills you’ve learned and practiced in air conditioning, refrigeration, and heating.

During this time, it’s possible to find entry-level jobs that help you learn what you need through on-the-job training. Learning from certified and licensed HVAC technicians as an apprentice is another great way to pass your exam, gain valuable experience, and start your HVAC technician career.

Step 5 – Keeping up to date on your certification!

It is typical that HVAC certifications expire and must be renewed. Each HVAC certification has different expiration timelines and renewal criteria. Make sure you know how long your certification lasts, and what you need to do to maintain it. Monitoring your certifications and keeping them current is crucial.

Prepare for certification with Dorsey College!

If you want to work as an HVAC technician in Michigan, there are a few requirements to meet. Luckily, Dorsey College’s HVAC Systems Technician training program is specifically designed to set you up for success to work as an HVAC Technician in Michigan. With experienced instructors, hands-on learning (including an externship), and career resources for graduates, now is a great time to start your journey to working as an experienced and certified HVAC tech.

1. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm
2. Section 608 Technician Certification Requirements | US EPA.” Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 15 December 2023, https://www.epa.gov/section608/section-608-technician-certification-requirements. Accessed 22 July 2024