Top 10 HVAC Certifications

Certifications are important for HVAC technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise that employers look for. Certified technicians can provide assurance to customers that the work being done is up to industry standards, helping to build customer trust. In addition, certifications can provide a technician with the opportunity to earn higher wages than those without them, as well as access to better career advancement opportunities. Finally, certifications can also give employers added assurance that their technicians are qualified and knowledgeable enough to handle complex jobs and repairs.

This article reviews some of the most beneficial certifications for HVAC professionals, and explains how they can help advance their career.

What are HVAC Certifications?

HVAC certification is a type of professional certification for technicians and installers in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration industry. It is designed to demonstrate a technician's knowledge and proficiency in these areas. Having HVAC certification can be beneficial to both employers and employees alike.

For employers, having certified technicians on staff demonstrates that they are committed to providing quality service and products. This can help them attract new customers who may be looking for certified technicians or installers. Furthermore, having certified technicians on staff ensures that their employees have the necessary skills to do their jobs safely and effectively.

For employees, having HVAC certification can help them stand out from other applicants when it comes to job opportunities. Employers prefer to hire those with the appropriate certifications since they know that they have the training necessary to perform their job duties correctly. Additionally, it can provide them with higher pay as well as more advancement opportunities within the field. It also allows them to stay up-to-date on the latest industry advancements so that they can provide better customer service and better quality workmanship.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing HVAC certification, make sure to review the requirements of your state or locality. Depending on where you live, you may need to meet certain educational or experience requirements in order to obtain certification. Additionally, make sure to research any fees associated with the certification process.

Related: What does an HVAC do?

Top 10 HVAC Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to HVACs today.

1. North American Technician Excellence (NATE)

North American Technician Excellence (NATE) is a certification program that validates the knowledge and skills of technicians in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry. It is the largest non-profit certification organization of its kind in North America.

To become NATE-certified, technicians must pass one or more specialty exams that cover topics such as installation, service, maintenance, and repair of HVAC/R systems. The exams are offered at approved testing centers throughout the United States and Canada.

The amount of time it takes to get NATE-certified depends on a technician's experience level and the number of tests they choose to take. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to prepare for and complete all necessary tests.

To get started with the NATE certification process, technicians must first register online at natex.org or by mail using an application form provided by NATE. Once registered, technicians can select their desired test(s) and schedule a date to take them at an approved testing center.

The cost of taking a NATE exam varies depending on which test(s) you choose to take and how many times you need to retake them if necessary. Generally speaking, each exam costs between $100-$150 USD per attempt.

2. Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES)

The Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) is a professional organization that provides educational and certification programs for those in the refrigeration service industry. It was founded in 1933, and its members include technicians, engineers, contractors, educators, and other professionals involved in the refrigeration industry.

To become a member of RSES, you must submit an application form along with payment of the membership fee. The fee varies depending on your profession and qualifications. Once your application has been accepted, you will receive a welcome package containing your membership card, certificate of membership, and access to RSES’s online resources.

It typically takes about two weeks for your membership to be processed. Once it is processed, you will have access to all of RSES’s resources including courses on topics such as safety regulations, HVAC systems design and maintenance, energy efficiency tips, troubleshooting techniques and more. You will also be able to take advantage of networking opportunities with other members as well as discounts on products and services related to the refrigeration industry.

The cost of joining RSES varies depending on your profession and qualifications. However, most memberships range from $50-$250 per year.

3. Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA)

Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) is a professional trade association that provides its members with education, training, and certification in the installation and maintenance of air conditioning systems. The association was founded in 1954 by a group of contractors who wanted to share their knowledge and expertise in the field.

To become an ACCA member, you must first complete an application and submit it to the association along with your payment. The application process usually takes about two weeks to complete. Once your application is approved, you will receive a certificate from ACCA that verifies your membership.

In order to get certified by ACCA, you must take an exam that covers topics such as air conditioning system design, installation, maintenance, and repair. You will also need to demonstrate your knowledge of safety procedures related to air conditioning systems. The cost for the exam varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking; however, it typically ranges from $100-$200 USD per exam.

Once you have completed the exam and passed it with a score of at least 70%, you will receive a certificate from ACCA that verifies your certification status. This certificate can be used as proof of competency when applying for jobs or bidding on projects related to air conditioning systems.

4. Building Performance Institute (BPI)

The Building Performance Institute (BPI) is a nationally recognized certification organization that provides comprehensive standards and certifications for home energy auditors, retrofit installers, and quality control inspectors. BPI's mission is to ensure the quality of residential energy efficiency improvements by developing and maintaining professional standards for individuals in the building performance industry.

It typically takes about four months to complete the certification process. To become certified, applicants must first pass an online knowledge exam. After passing the knowledge exam, applicants must then complete a field exam which involves performing a full home energy audit on a real-world house. Additionally, applicants must also attend two days of training and pass an online business management class.

The cost of becoming BPI certified varies depending on the type of certification being sought. For example, the cost of becoming a Home Energy Auditor is $1,250 while the cost of becoming an Envelope Professional is $2,000. The cost includes all study materials as well as access to practice exams and other resources for preparing for the exams.

Overall, BPI certification provides professionals with an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise in residential energy efficiency improvements and gain recognition from employers and customers alike.

5. HVAC Excellence Certification Program

HVAC Excellence is a certification program that provides professional recognition and credentials to individuals in the HVAC industry. This program is designed to recognize those who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill in the areas of installation, service, maintenance, design, and management of residential and commercial heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

The certification process typically takes about six months to complete. First, applicants must meet the eligibility requirements for the program. These include having at least two years of experience in the HVAC industry or completing an approved training program. After meeting these requirements, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as safety practices, system installation and maintenance, troubleshooting techniques, and energy efficiency principles.

Once applicants have passed their exams they are eligible for certification. The cost for the exam varies depending on the type of certification being sought but generally ranges from $150-$250. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate of completion and can begin using their credentials immediately.

In addition to providing professional recognition and credentials to individuals in the HVAC industry, HVAC Excellence also offers continuing education courses that can help certified professionals stay up-to-date on new technologies and regulations in their field.

6. Green Mechanical Council Certification Program

The Green Mechanical Council (GMC) is an organization that provides certifications for professionals in the mechanical engineering industry. The GMC certification program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of green mechanical engineering. This includes understanding energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, sustainable design, and other related topics.

The GMC certification process begins with an online application and requires applicants to submit a resume, transcripts, and proof of professional experience. After submitting the application, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, sustainable design principles, and green building codes. Once the exam is passed, applicants will receive their GMC certification within four to six weeks.

The cost of the GMC certification program varies depending on the type of certification sought. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$300 for a basic certification and up to $600 for more advanced certifications. Additionally, there are renewal fees associated with maintaining one's GMC certification status every two years.

Overall, obtaining a GMC certification is beneficial for those looking to demonstrate their expertise in green mechanical engineering or advance their career opportunities within this field.

7. EPA 608 Universal Certification

EPA 608 Universal Certification is a certification program administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that certifies individuals to work with stationary air-conditioning, refrigeration, and other related systems. This certification is required for anyone who works on or services equipment containing controlled substances such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

The EPA 608 Universal Certification consists of three sections: Core, Type I, and Type II. The Core section covers general safety practices and regulations while the Type I and Type II sections cover specific knowledge related to servicing small and large appliances respectively.

It typically takes 2-3 hours to complete the EPA 608 Universal Certification exam. To get certified, individuals must first register with an accredited testing agency such as Prometric or Pearson VUE. Once registered, they can then schedule their exam at a convenient time and location.

The cost of the EPA 608 Universal Certification exam varies depending on the testing agency but generally ranges from $50-$100 USD.

8. Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) Certifications

The Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) is a non-profit organization that provides certification programs and educational resources to improve indoor air quality. IAQA certifications are designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge, experience, and expertise in the field of indoor air quality.

To become certified by the IAQA, applicants must first complete an online application and submit it along with the applicable fees. Once approved, applicants must then successfully complete a written exam which covers topics such as HVAC systems, ventilation systems, building science principles, microbial contamination control, and more. The exam typically takes two to three hours to complete and costs $200 for members or $250 for non-members.

Once the exam has been passed, applicants must then demonstrate their practical skills by completing an onsite assessment at an IAQA-approved facility. This assessment usually takes two days to complete and costs $400 for members or $500 for non-members.

Finally, applicants must submit a portfolio of completed projects that demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world situations. This portfolio should include documentation of at least four successful projects that were completed within the last five years. Once this portfolio is reviewed and approved by the IAQA board of directors, applicants will receive their official certification from the association.

In total, it typically takes six months or longer to become certified by the IAQA depending on how quickly you can complete all of the requirements listed above. The cost of becoming certified varies depending on whether you are a member or not but generally ranges between $800-$1000 USD.

9. National Comfort Institute (NCI) Certifications

National Comfort Institute (NCI) is a leading provider of training and certifications for HVAC professionals. NCI Certifications are designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills required to accurately diagnose, adjust, and repair residential and light commercial HVAC systems.

It typically takes between three to four days to complete an NCI Certification course. The courses cover topics such as system diagnostics, indoor air quality testing, combustion analysis, duct system design, energy efficiency, and more.

To get an NCI Certification, you must first attend an approved training program. You can find a list of approved programs on the NCI website. After completing the program, you must pass a written exam in order to receive your certification.

The cost of an NCI Certification varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, most certifications range from $500-$1000 USD.

10. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Certifications

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is an international organization that sets standards for the design, construction, installation, and maintenance of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. ASHRAE certification programs are designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge in their field.

ASHRAE offers several certifications for professionals in the HVACR industry. These include Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), Certified HVAC Design Professional (CHDP), Building Performance Analysis Professional (BPAP), and Indoor Air Quality Manager (IAQM). Each certification requires a different set of qualifications and experience.

To become certified by ASHRAE, applicants must meet certain requirements including education, experience, technical knowledge and skills. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers the specific area of expertise for which they are seeking certification. The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the type of certification being sought; some can be completed in as little as one year while others may take up to five years or more to complete.

The cost of ASHRAE certifications varies depending on the type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, fees range from $100 - $500 USD per exam plus any additional fees associated with obtaining study materials or taking preparatory courses. The cost also includes a one-time application fee and annual renewal fees.

In addition to the cost associated with getting certified by ASHRAE, applicants should also consider the benefits that come along with having this credential. Having an ASHRAE certification demonstrates a commitment to excellence in HVACR engineering and can open up new career opportunities as well as increase earning potential.

Do You Really Need a HVAC Certificate?

Whether you need an HVAC certificate or not depends on your career goals and the type of job you are seeking. An HVAC certificate can help you stand out among other job applicants and demonstrate your knowledge in the field of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). With this certificate, employers may be more likely to hire you because they know that you have received specialized training in the HVAC industry.

If you are interested in becoming a certified HVAC technician, then an HVAC certificate is definitely a requirement. It is important to note that not all states require certification for entry-level technicians; however, many employers prefer to hire those who have completed a formal training program and earned their certification. This certification demonstrates that you possess the necessary skills and knowledge to work as an HVAC technician.

Even if you don’t plan on becoming an HVAC technician, having an HVAC certificate can still be beneficial for other types of jobs in the industry. For example, it can demonstrate your experience with air conditioning systems and improve your chances of being hired for a supervisory or managerial position. It could also make you eligible for higher wages than those without such credentials.

In conclusion, whether or not you need an HVAC certificate really depends on what kind of job you are seeking and what kind of career path you want to pursue within the industry. If your goal is to become a certified technician or gain higher wages due to your knowledge in the field, then obtaining an HVAC certificate will most likely be beneficial to achieving these goals.

Related: HVAC Resume Examples

FAQs About HVAC Certifications

1. What is an HVAC Certification?

Answer: An HVAC certification is a professional credential that certifies an individual has the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to work as a heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) technician.

2. How do I become certified in HVAC?

Answer: To become certified in HVAC, you must complete a training program at an accredited school and pass the EPA 608 or NATE exam. Depending on your state, you may also need to obtain a license from the local government.

3. What is the difference between an EPA 608 and NATE Certification?

Answer: The EPA 608 certification covers the installation and maintenance of refrigerants while the NATE certification covers general service issues such as troubleshooting and repair of HVAC systems.

4. How long does it take to get an HVAC Certification?

Answer: It typically takes between 6 months to 2 years to complete all of the courses required for an HVAC certification depending on your level of experience and type of program you choose.

5. How much does it cost to get an HVAC Certification?

Answer: The cost of getting an HVAC Certification varies widely depending on where you go for training, but typically ranges from $500-$3000 USD.