To get into an HVAC vocational training program, students typically must have at least a high school diploma or GED. HVAC training programs can last six months and lead to a certificate; or they can last up to two years and lead to an associate's degree. Some vocational schools --- such as Pinnacle Career Institute, which offers a 12-month HVAC certificate program --- additionally require potential students to complete a personal interview with an admission coordinator to determine if they are strong candidates for the program.
Students should make sure their potential program of choice is accredited by one of three accrediting agencies. These agencies include HVAC Excellence; the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Accreditation; and the National Center for Construction Education and Research. Accreditation shows that a school meets an established level of training proficiency.
In addition, training at an HVAC vocational school will prepare students to seek voluntary certification in specific areas. For example, North American Technician Excellence allows technicians to take a core exam and then choose specialties such as air-to-heat pump installation, hydronics oil installation and commercial refrigeration service. Although HVAC technicians are not regulated at the national level, HVAC vocational school training prepares students to be licensed by their individual states as well.
Classes in an HVAC vocational training program cover topics such as equipment design/construction, engineering applications and HVAC control system application/thermal controls. Other courses cover HVAC heating fundamentals, HVAC electrical fundamentals/HVAC circuits, technical reporting, air distribution, duct design and even pneumatic HVAC systems. Some schools --- such as California State University in East Bay --- additionally offer HVAC technician courses online for students who seek to balance their jobs and personal commitments with schooling.
As part of HVAC training programs, students might have to complete an internship to get hands-on experience in the field. Interns should train to service different HVAC systems, troubleshoot for potential problems and maintain systems. In addition, students get experience with installing these types of systems in both commercial and residential environments. These types of internship opportunities exist at service and repair shops.