How To Become An HVAC Maintenance Technician

by Barbara Bellesi & Robyn Tellefsen

If you've ever had a broken refrigerator, you understand the importance of properly functioning climate control systems and equipment. That's where HVAC maintenance technicians come in - they're the professionals who make sure your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are in good working order. Find out how to become an HVAC maintenance technician here.

How do I become an HVAC maintenance technician?
There are many certificate and associate degree programs in HVAC that are offered at technical and trade schools, two-year colleges, and even through the armed forces. HVAC programs typically last anywhere from six months to two years.

While most people go to school to become an HVAC maintenance technician, there are a number of technicians who have only had on-the-job training. When you work alongside experienced technicians, you may begin by insulating refrigerant lines and cleaning furnaces, eventually progressing to such tasks as cutting and soldering pipes and sheet metal and checking electrical and electronic circuits. You may also choose to pursue a formal apprenticeship program, which typically lasts three to five years and combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Of course, employers prefer to hire HVAC maintenance technicians with formal training and certifications. Make sure the HVAC maintenance technician schools you're considering are accredited by HVAC Excellence; the National Center for Construction Education and Research; or the Partnership for Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Accreditation.

Certification exams are offered through HVAC Excellence, the Carbon Monoxide Safety Association, and North American Technician Excellence, among others. For example, HVAC Excellence offers Employment-Ready certifications, Professional-Level certifications, and Master Specialist certifications. Master Specialist certification areas include combustion analysis, gas heat, heat pumps, light commercial air conditioning, light commercial refrigeration, low pressure hydronic heat, oil heat, and residential air conditioning.

There are several states that require licensing in order to work as an HVAC maintenance technician; check with your state licensing board to determine the requirements in your area. All technicians who purchase or work with refrigerants must be certified in their proper handling. Certification entails passing a written exam administered by organizations approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, such as trade schools, contractor associations, unions, or building groups.

What will I learn in HVAC maintenance technician school?
In six-month to two-year HVAC programs, you'll learn the basics of installation, maintenance, and repair of heating and cooling systems, as well as temperature control theory, design and equipment construction, and electronics. HVAC courses may include blueprint reading, safety practices, theory and design of HVAC systems, use and care of tools, and ventilation.

HVAC courses may also cover applied physics and chemistry, computer applications, electrical work, mechanical drawing, plumbing, and shop math. Because of the increasing use of electronics in equipment controls, many HVAC maintenance technician schools emphasize a strong grasp of electronics. Courses in communication are also helpful since technicians frequently deal directly with customers.

In addition, today's HVAC maintenance technician schools provide instruction in the latest energy-saving and environmentally safe heating and air-conditioning systems. They also make sure students stay up to date on regulations prohibiting the discharge and production of older types of refrigerants that pollute the atmosphere.