Overview of HVAC and HVACR Programs
Majors Overview February 4, 2016Nowadays, heating, air conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration technicians can all pursue a degree program related to their job. So, if you are interested in any of the aforementioned professions, learn if pursuing this degree program could be what you need to achieve your dreams in life.
Career Information for those with a HVAC or HVACR License
After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in HVACR, you can easily work on the heat transfer systems for refrigerators, install, maintain, repair and/or make recommendations regarding how cooling machines operate. Additionally, a degree program in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration can easily help you get a job to work for individuals or corporate offices.
Career Information for those with a HVAC or HVACR License
A HVACR technician installs, repair or help maintain HVACR systems whether at businesses or homes. However, a technician can choose to work on either heating systems or air conditioning systems, although some are usually trained to deal with both types of machines. Another important area these technicians will have knowledge and skills in is recycling of refrigerators or their conservation.
Professions in heating, air conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration mechanics are expected to grow at an average rate of 14% within the next few years. On the other hand, the average salary for these professions in 2014 was an estimated $46,880.
Education Information for Individuals Interested in HVAC or HVACR Programs
Some people are lucky to get jobs related to HVACR with only a high school diploma. However, most employers are now asking for formal training before giving you a job. Acquiring some training in HVACR related profession is therefore proving to be important. You can get appropriate training in vocational colleges, technical and in community colleges, and if lucky, you can get additional on the job training.
Courses offered in the program revolve around electricity for HVACR, Environmental Protection Agency, installation of appliances, gas and refrigeration systems repair, blueprint and specifications, pump components, AC control principles and indoor air quality maintenance. A good training program also involves apprenticeships that may take anywhere from 2-5 years.
Certifications and Licensure
Licensing and certification differs depending on the state that you live in. However, almost all states demand that you pass a sit in examination before you can be approved to operate as a HVACR technician. The apprenticeship bit that we had mentioned earlier is also a requirement before getting a license in most states.
Nationally, the EPA offers licensure after passing through a written examination that is usually divided into three parts. Each part contains questions for technicians wishing to pursue a career in small appliances, high pressure refrigerants or low pressure refrigerants. Technicians can also seek for licensure from bodies such as the American Technician Excellence (NATE), the Air conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute, the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute or the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society of America and the HVCAR Excellence.
