The knowledge and skills needed to have a rewarding career in heating, ventilation air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) are gained at HVACR School.
Program Overview
Full and part-time programs are available. Full-time programs last anywhere from two weeks to one year depending on the institution and degree sought. All of the programs include classroom teaching, study, and lab work. The classroom portion includes an overview of all topics with the emphasis being on the installation, servicing, and troubleshooting of HVACR systems. Related topics presented in the classroom portion include temperature, humidity, evaporants, condensers, compressors, motors, transformers, and thermostats. The lab work provides hands-on training and application of concepts learned in the classroom. Some programs will emphasize the flow of electricity in the lab portion since it is core to HVAC work.
Certifications/Licenses
EPA Certification is required to work as an HVACR technician. A reputable Texas refrigeration school or Texas Air Conditioning School will structure its program to assist students in preparation for this exam. The exam is a closed book test. It contains a core section and certification sections on small appliances, high-pressure, and low-pressure. A score of 18 or above on each section is passing.
The State of Texas requires licenses for individuals operating an air conditioning or refrigeration business, but it does not require technicians to be licensed. Voluntary certifications are available. The most reputable is the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification.
Job responsibilities
Following training and certification, an HVACR technician is capable of installing, maintaining, or repairing any component of a residential or commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning, or refrigeration system. There is a wide salary range of $11 to $29 per hour depending on the technician's training, employer, and experience. Between 13 and 16 percent of HVACR technicians are self-employed.
By becoming an HVACR technician, an individual can participate in an industry that is always in demand. Everyone relies on heating and air conditioning to run their homes and businesses. The job offers great flexibility allowing the person to be self-employed or work in a small or large company.