Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Technician
Commonly known as HVAC-R Technician, the program is designed to thoroughly prepare the student, through quality lecture, for theoretical knowledge of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. Students also learn the skills and responsibilities required to work as a professional HVAC-R Technician through laboratory practice in the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning and refrigeration industry. The successful program graduate will be able to perform appropriate troubleshooting and repair of Heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment.
Graduates of the HVAC-R Technician program at National Polytechnic College will be qualified to sit for the EPA Section 608 Certification examination and will ultimately be able to work as an entry-level Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic or Installer.
Why a career in HVAC-R?
One of the greatest benefits of working in HVAC-R is the flexibility to have one or multiple specialties. While one certified technician may choose to specialize in the troubleshooting and replacement of Refrigeration equipment only, another technician may choose to specialize in air-conditioning. Understanding the full spectrum of the HVAC-R industry will provide you with the right knowledge to design a full ventilation system, build a ventilation system under code, and also as challenging, troubleshoot equipment failures in ventilation and refrigeration. The opportunities can expand beyond the residential scope of the field and into commercial design and repair. With the advent of new and more technological advances is today's equipment controls, there is ample growth within the industry that may lead to becoming an independent contractor.
As an HVAC-R Technician, your responsibilities include:
- Install, maintain, and repair HVAC-R systems. This includes installing new systems, repairing existing systems, and performing preventative maintenance.
- Diagnose and troubleshoot HVAC-R problems. This includes using diagnostic tools to identify the source of problems and then repairing or replacing the necessary components.
- Provide customer service. This includes answering customer questions, explaining technical concepts to customers, and resolving customer complaints.
- Maintain accurate records. This includes keeping track of work orders, materials used, and time spent on each job.
- Comply with safety regulations. This includes following all safety procedures when working with HVAC-R equipment.
- Stay up-to-date on industry trends. This includes attending industry events, reading trade magazines, and taking continuing education courses.
Class Structure and Delivery:
All lectures are delivered in a traditional format, with occasional online lectures as needed. Face-to-face learning provides an environment where course content and learning material are taught in person to a group of students. This allows for a live interaction between a learner and an instructor; this also allows students to work hands-on with the same equipment that will be used throughout their career.
Program Completion Time
Diploma - 9 months / 36 weeks / 720 hours
Why a Career in HVAC-R?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, The job outlook for HVAC-R technicians in the US is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers will grow 5 percent from 2021 to 2031. This growth is expected to be driven by a number of factors, including:
- The increasing demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems. As the country moves towards a more sustainable future, there is a growing demand for HVAC systems that are more efficient and use less energy. This is creating new opportunities for HVAC-R technicians to install and maintain these systems.
- The aging infrastructure. The US has a large and aging infrastructure that needs to be maintained and updated. This includes HVAC systems, which are often decades old and in need of repair or replacement. This creates new opportunities for HVAC-R technicians to work on these systems.
- The increasing number of commercial and residential construction projects. The construction industry is expected to grow in the coming years, which will create new demand for HVAC-R technicians to install and maintain HVAC systems in new buildings.
Q&A of Becoming a HVAC-R Technician
Can NPCollege credits transfer to another institution?
The transferability of credits you earn at NPCollege is at the complete discretion of the institution to which you seek to transfer to. Acceptance of the degree, diploma, or certificate you earn in your educational program at NPCollege is also at the complete discretion of the accepting Institution. For this reason, you should make certain that your attendance at NPCollege will meet your educational goals.
Can I transfer credits from another college to take the HVAC-R program at NPCollege?
Our HVAC-R program is a diploma program, and requires no General Education classes to complete. As such, we do not accept transfer credits for this program.
How can I submit an application for NPCollege's HVAC-R program?
Before we look into any application, NPCollege requires you to schedule a meeting with the admissions office for further review your academic background, and your goals. This is important because it allows us to make recommendations for your career path. We gladly accept both in-person and virtual appointments for this initial interview. Reach out to us at 1(888) 379-4090 to schedule an appointment during office hours.
