Do HVAC Technicians Need On The Job Training?

Becoming an HVAC professional requires vocational skills and hundreds of hours of in-field training. So if you have chosen a career path in the HVAC industry and want to know what HVAC on-the-job training entails, in this article, we will be discussing all you need to know about everything you need to know about becoming an apprentice. 

Required Qualifications

The basic requirements may differ from state to state between HVAC companies and training institutions. Some may require you to have a GED, while others may require a vocational training certification. 

But most HVAC professionals will take hardworking people who can pay attention to details, are willing to get their hands dirty, and understand basic math, because math is necessary for all construction work. Social skills are also necessary to enable you to communicate effectively with your co-workers and clients.

Required Tools

An HVAC contractor works with a variety of tools. As an apprentice, you need to become familiar with the tools of the trade. From simple tools like pliers, screwdrivers, and wrenches. 

To the more complex tools like voltage testers and vacuum pumps. Some technicians also make use of tablet devices equipped with HVAC software. Let's not forget the power tools like reciprocate saws and power drills necessary for installations.

On Job Training

On average, it takes 3 to 5 years for an apprentice to complete their training and become a professional. During the training, the apprentice starts by performing basic tasks like cleaning, replacing refrigerants, cleaning ducts, and servicing components in heaters and air conditioners.

When an HVAC technician gets hired for a job, the technician sometimes works alongside an apprentice. The tasks of the apprentice may vary from simply observing their mentors on the job to performing simple tasks like cleaning and assembling. The more advanced apprentices handle most of the work or even the entire job under close supervision by their mentor.

Apprenticeship

HVAC apprentices must be all jack-of-all-trades due to the complexity of the equipment they'll be using. As soon as a person who wants to be an HVAC technician starts an apprenticeship, they will learn about the process of heat production, how a refrigerator works, and how to read blueprints to help with the installation process.

They'll have to be electricians too. HVAC systems use wiring and electrical equipment that one must regularly maintain since it's also prone to wearing out and failing over time.In addition to using computer technology, contemporary HVAC systems also introduce a new set of skills that the apprentice must acquire. Today's HVAC apprentices will learn how to read, create their digital blueprints, and navigate "smart" heating and cooling technology.

Certification

As an HVAC Technician, there are several certifications you can get, like the NATE Certification. NATE is the largest nonprofit certification organization for HVAC Technicians in America. 

NATE tests ensure service and installation technicians have real-world knowledge of HVAC systems and are qualified to do their jobs. Contractors, manufacturers, and HVAC distributors from all over the industry work with 

NATE to train knowledgeable and skilled technicians. 

Suppose an HVAC Technician student passes the NATE Ready to Work 

Certification. In that case, they have shown they have the basic skills and knowledge of an entry-level technician in identifying parts, using tools, measuring, electrical safety, general safety, and primary heat transfer.

Summing Up

There you have it, HVAC on-the-job training. You can see that it's not a stressful process to become an HVAC Technician. If you've got your high school diploma, you can head on and get your HVAC Certificate. With hardwork and concentration, you'll come out well.