What does an HVAC technician do?

HVAC-R technicians work on each part of the acronym: heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. This can include installing and maintaining these systems, as well as dealing with electrical components and wiring.

How long does it take to become an HVAC technician?

While how long it takes to complete training is often dependent on the student, Carrington College’s HVAC-R program can be completed with a Certificate of Achievement in as few as 10 months.

How do I become an HVAC-R technician?

The first step to becoming an HVAC-R technician is education. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many HVAC-R technicians receive postsecondary instruction from technical and trade schools or community colleges that offer programs in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration. Some states require HVAC-R technicians to be licensed. Check your state and local area’s requirements to see if you need to become licensed. According to the BLS, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires technicians who work with refrigerant-cooling systems to be certified with appropriate refrigerant handling.

What type of degree does an HVAC tech need?

While not all states require HVAC-R technicians to have degrees, according to the BLS, employers generally prefer applicants with postsecondary education or those who have completed an apprenticeship.

Trades and Industrial Programs

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC-R)

Carrington’s Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) program prepares graduates with fundamental, hands-on training for a career in the heating and cooling industry.

Program Details

What Will I learn

Cost & Financial Aid

Your education is an investment in your future, and Carrington College is here to help. We offer a variety of financial aid options, including federal, state, and private programs, Sas well as student loans, grants, and scholarships are available for those who qualify. Each program has different requirements and application instructions. Our team is here to guide you through the options and application process.

Academic Cost

For complete information on current tuition costs, please see the Academic Catalog.

Location Availability

Carrington College’s HVAC Technician program is available at the Trades Education Center in Phoenix.

Accreditation & Approvals

Carrington College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, 428 J Street, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95814; 415 506 0234 an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. Additional information about accreditation, including the filing of complaints against member institutions, can be found at accjc.org.

For comprehensive information on Carrington College’s accreditation and approvals, visit carrington.edu/accreditation-and-approvals/.

Course Catalog

Program Specific Disclosures

Continuing Education For Graduates

Student Outcomes

REAL WORLD SKILLS

With many classes to guide you, you’re certain to be prepared for your career.

START YOUR PATH

Earn your Certificate of Achievement in as few as 10 months. Certificate graduates can earn an Associate in Trade Studies in as few as 6 additional months.

FLEXIBLE LEARNING OPTIONS

Conveniently available at the Trades Education Center in Phoenix.

AFFORDABLE TUITION

Affordable tuition varies by program and location.

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Discover What It’s Like to Train to Become an HVAC Technician at Carrington College

I just really liked Carrington: I loved how they were set up, how big the lab was, and that they hire not just teachers but people who do or have done HVAC-R for a living. They bring all that experience to the classroom.

DANIEL M.

2022 HVAC-R Student

Career Opportunities

Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers—often called HVACR technicians—work on heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems that control the temperature and air quality in buildings.

The following are examples of what HVACR technicians do, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:¹

Install, clean, and maintain HVACR systems
Install electrical components and wiring
Inspect and test HVACR systems and components
Discuss system malfunctions with customers
Repair or replace worn or defective parts
Recommend maintenance to improve system performance
Keep records of work performed

Check out our guide on becoming an HVAC-R Technician.

If you enjoy mathematics, mechanics, and hands-on work, you may enjoy a career as a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technician. These professionals apply their knowledge of machines, building construction, and electrical design to install and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC-R) systems. They make sure buildings’ heating and cooling systems are functioning properly.¹