Just like a driver needs the proper license to operate a motor vehicle, an HVAC technician needs the right certification to work on HVAC systems. The more advanced the certification, the further their HVAC career can grow. So, what is an HVAC certification, and what are the best options?

What is an HVAC Certification?

An HVAC certification helps employers understand the level of knowledge and skills that a candidate has when applying for an HVAC position. HVAC certification can:

Prove Skill and Safety

An HVAC certification shows you have the skills to safely and efficiently manage HVAC systems. It also proves you understand safety rules that keep everyone safe.

EPA Section 608 Certification

Anyone working with refrigerants must have this certification by law. The good news is that CyberTex prepares you for this certification exam. There are four levels of Section 608 certification:

Type I: Small appliances
Type II: High-pressure systems
Type III: Low-pressure systems
Universal: Covers all types

Other Industry Certifications

The North American Technician Excellence (NATE) and HVAC Excellence offer certifications that prove advanced knowledge and skill levels. Most employers look for these certifications in an HVAC candidate.

Why is an HVAC Certification Important?

There are many reasons to get an HVAC certification. They include:

Shows You’re Qualified

An HVAC certification proves you’ve been trained in the classroom and through hands-on training to safely work on HVAC systems. It shows you understand how systems work and that you can follow safety rules.

The Law Requires Section 608 Certification

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires certification under Section 608 if you plan to work with refrigerants. This law helps protect the environment and ensures that only trained workers are handling chemicals that could cause harm.

Helps You Get Hired

Many employers may only consider applicants who have a certification. Plus, it’s often listed as a basic requirement in job descriptions. Being certified gives you more opportunities for interviews and job offers.

Can Increase Responsibility

Certified HVAC technicians can take on more responsibility and may earn more than non-certified workers. If you add NATE certification to your resume, you will stand out. These extra certifications show you have advanced skills and are serious about your trade.

Keeps You Up to Date

From smart thermostats and energy-efficient systems to new refrigerants. Technology in HVAC is constantly changing, and since certification requires continuing education, you will keep up-to-date as the industry changes.

Opens More Career Options

Certification can help you move to higher-level positions like lead technician, supervisor, inspector, or service manager. Some HVAC technicians even open their HVAC businesses once they gain enough experience and meet local licensing requirements.

Which HVAC Certification is Best?

The best HVAC certification depends on your career goals and the type of work you want to do. Here are some of the certifications in the HVAC field:

EPA Section 608 Certification

Required by law under the Clean Air Act, this is the most important certification for HVAC technicians.

NATE Certification

NATE is a nationally recognized certification that shows a deeper understanding of HVAC systems. You can choose from the following:

  • Core exam + Specialty exams: Focus on installation or service specialties in air conditioning, heat pumps, and gas furnaces.
  • NATE Ready-to-Work and HVAC Support Tech tests are available for beginners

HVAC Excellence Certification

This program offers both Student Outcome Assessments and Professional Level Technician exams. It covers general knowledge and specialty areas.

How to Get an HVAC Certification

Here are the steps to getting HVAC certification:

Step #1: Finish High School or Get a GED

CyberTex requires that new students have a high school diploma or GED.

Step #2: Enroll in an HVAC Training Program at CyberTex

CyberTex offers hands-on HVAC technician training in Austin and Killeen, Texas. The program teaches:

  • Basic electricity and wiring
  • Refrigeration and air conditioning systems
  • Heating units and gas furnaces
  • EPA Section 608 preparation

Step #3: Complete the Program

CyberTex’s HVAC program can be finished in as little as 11 months. Classes include in-person labs and classroom theory. During this program, you get real-world training that prepares you for the job and certification exams.

Step #4: Pass the EPA Section 608 Certification Exam

This is required for anyone who handles refrigerants. CyberTex helps you prepare for and take the test.

Step #5: Consider Extra Certifications

Once you’re working, consider advanced certifications like:

  • NATE Certification
  • HVAC Excellence

Step #6: Apply for Jobs or an Apprenticeship

With your certification and CyberTex training, you can look for an apprenticeship. CyberTex offers career services to graduates of the HVAC program for resume building, interview preparation, and job matching.

Step #7: Stay Certified and Keep Learning

Technology changes fast, so it is essential to keep learning new systems and stay up to date with any renewal requirements for your certifications.

HVAC Technician Diploma

Want to achieve HVAC certifications to start a rewarding career as an HVAC technician in Texas? With more than two decades of success in the medical, health, and IT sectors, we added an HVAC course to our curriculum. We proudly announce that we have flexible day and evening classes for the HVAC program.

CyberTex’s HVAC program can be completed in as little as 11 months by attending full-time with the flexibility of day and evening classes. You can take the EPA–608 certification from the US Environmental Protection Agency with our training.

Want to learn more? Contact us today.