What You'll Learn

Basic components of the vapor-compression and refrigeration cycles, functions and characteristics of system refrigerants, piping operations
Proper installation and operation of HVAC systems as well as recovery, recycling, and retrofitting of refrigerants
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) laws related to safe handling and transport of refrigerants

Prepare for Certification

Be prepared to sit for the NATE Ready to Work Certificate Exams
Be prepared to sit for the HVAC Excellence Employment Ready Certificate Exams
Be prepared to sit for the EPA 608 Refrigerant Handling Certification Exam

HVAC/R FAQs

What Does an HVAC/R Technician Do?

Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) technicians, also called installers or mechanics, work on the systems that control the temperature, humidity, and quality of the air in our homes, workplaces, and all other types of buildings.

How Do I Become an HVAC/R Technician?

To become an HVACR technician, you will first have to work as an apprentice under a licensed technician for up to 2,000 hours. However, apprenticeship are competitive, so having formal training and a “work ready” certificate significantly improve your chances of success.

Does This Course Prepare Me for Work Ready Certificates?

Yes. This HVAC/R Technician Certification course will prepare you for entry-level work ready certificates: HVAC Excellence “Employment Ready” Certificate and the NATE “Ready to Work” Certificate.

Are Work Ready Certificates Worth It?

Yes. For job seekers just entering the HVACR field, a work ready certificates show prospective employers that you have a fundamental understanding of HVACR systems, maintenance and troubleshooting.

Career Outlook:
HVAC/R Technicians

Background

According the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), HVAC/R technician jobs are projected to grow 13% over the next eight years, which equals 46,300 new jobs.

Potential Earnings

The BLS also states that the average salary for these developers is just under $49,000 per year with top earners making nearly $78,000.

Course Outline

This course is designed for students with little-to-no background in HVAC/R, so are no prerequisites to take this course. However, we recommend having a high school diploma or GED.

  • LESSON 1: SAFETY, TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT, AND SHOP PRACTICES
    Learn general safety practices as well as how to care for and use all the tools you will come across on the job.
  • LESSON 2: AUTOMATIC CONTROLS
    Understand automatic control components and applications including troubleshooting for basic through more advanced systems.
  • LESSON 3: ELECTRIC MOTORS
    Gain a full understanding of electric motors including types, applications, controls, and troubleshooting techniques.
  • LESSON 4: COMMERCIAL REFRIGERATION
    Learn the ins and outs of commercial refrigeration components including evaporators, condensers, compressors, expansion devices, ice machines, special applications and systems, and more.
UTSA PaCE
Registration
100% Online

You will have 12 months of course access to train for the 'work ready' certificates. Start anytime.

$2,895
Exam Voucher Included
Meet the Instructors
Mike Baker

Mike Baker has been an instructor since 2011. He was previously an HVAC Program Director at both Virginia College and Vista College. Baker was a HVAC technician for several decades and has experience hiring, training, and managing HVAC Technicians. He holds numerous HVAC Excellence certifications, several Green Mechanical Council certifications, an EPA 608 Universal certification, and Emerson Climate Technology certifications. He has served as both an HVAC Excellence Instructor and Exam Proctor.

Building Community

This training program is delivered to the San Antonio community through a partnership with Ed2Go.

UTSA Professional and Continuing Education
Ed2Go