Advances in HVAC-R practice are driving HVAC education forward, toward an understanding of greener systems and components, and connected and embedded technologies such as Nest thermostats that control advanced heating and cooling systems in ever more sophisticated ways. New HVAC certification and degree programs focus on preparing technicians to install, maintain and repair modern HVAC-R systems, often device-controlled and incorporating progressively greener technology. This blog surfaces the best modern HVAC programs across a number of dimensions, along with the professors that are pushing HVAC education forward, and the apps and technologies that are emerging as future HVAC-R standards. As licensing and certification requirements evolve to incorporate new advancements in the field, and as active HVAC educators and practitioners share their stories, the hvacclasses.wpengine.com team will publish that information here.
While the most common route for prospective HVAC professionals is to take up an apprenticeship, students also have the option of taking up a certificate program in HVAC. These programs introduce students to the fundamentals of heating, ventilation, and cooling; residential air conditioning; commercial air conditioning; and the installation, repair, and maintenance of these systems.
The newest thermostats are now just one part of smart HVAC systems. As more and more smart technology is incorporated in buildings, sensors in HVAC systems will be an integral and essential part of detecting any issue that affects energy usage.
Tools are needed for any HVAC program and your school will likely provide you with a list. To familiarize yourself with these tools, check out our list of 10 must have tools for HVAC students and gain an idea about what might be required.
Hundreds of appliances and devices have been designed to meet the climate control needs of individuals, homes, institutions, and businesses. Energy efficiency standards also contribute to the proliferation of even more devices to monitor and maintain satisfactory air quality.
The renewable energy sector doesn’t grow by itself; it needs skilled professionals to install, repair, and manage its infrastructure. The boom in renewable energy has created a reciprocal boom in several renewable energy careers.
Although many HVAC apps are free or inexpensive, you’ll still want to choose the ones that best fit your professional needs. Consider the type of services you perform on a daily basis and start with the apps that will increase your productivity, eliminate a tedious manual calculation, or fill a need that your physical tools don’t meet.
While in the past, the HVAC industry was traditionally male-dominated, this image is quickly being shed as more and more women are finding employment in the field. The BLS (Feb. 2017) reported that women make up only 1.4 percent of the HVAC workforce, but the nearly 6,000 women nationwide represents a significant leap from years past.
As well as the satisfaction of becoming more competent, technicians improve their employability and increase their potential earnings as they gain additional skills. Industry associations are by far the largest source of training for HVAC technicians.
A true apprenticeship is based on the “earn as you learn” principle. Apprentices receive hands-on training, technical instruction, and are paid for the hours they work. Their salaries, however, are influenced by various factors.
If you are considering joining the HVAC industry’s workforce or starting your own business, now may be the perfect time to do it. Perhaps you are a seasoned technician with a strong understanding of the nuts and bolts of the service side, dreaming of becoming your own boss. Or maybe you are a naturally business-minded entrepreneur looking for the right industry to invest your capital and management knowledge.