More often than not, people looking to become certified heating, ventilating, and air conditioning technicians already maintain regular or part-time jobs. For such people, attending on-site and full-time programs means losing income opportunities. That is the reason why HVAC online courses have become so popular. Through such programs, those who want to pursue careers in this field can get training at their own time and pace without compromising the jobs that they currently maintain.
Taking advantage of HVAC courses online may take some time, money and effort but the opportunities to be gained after becoming certified makes all of it worthwhile. Here are the general steps involved in becoming a certified heating, ventilating, and air conditioning technician from home:
Setting Resources Aside for HVAC Online Courses
Online courses are more convenient and often less expensive than their on-site alternatives, but they do require some time and money. Reputable HVAC online courses cost no less than US$350. Some of the more comprehensive ones can cost as much as US$3,000 or even more. In terms of time, a minimum of 200 hours is often required but some programs require up to 320 hours.
Those looking to become certified HVAC technicians can either choose to find online courses that they can afford in terms of time and money or wait until they have enough resources set aside before enrolling in one.
Searching for and Choosing From Available HVAC Courses Online
Searching for available heating, ventilating, and air conditioning online courses is no longer a difficult task thanks to search engines like Google and Yahoo as well as portals like Top HVAC Schools and HVAC Training Guide. Careful research is required in order to choose the right one.
Although HVAC courses online provide complete training, students often choose to specialize in certain fields. Some of those fields include refrigeration, furnaces, hydronics, air conditioning and heat pumps. It is important for those looking into becoming certified HVAC technicians to choose a field of specialization before even shortlisting programs. It is also important to choose between diploma courses and certificate programs. Making a choice between the two often depends on the person's educational background.
Completing the Requirements of HVAC Online Courses
Once a person has chosen and enrolled in a course, all there is to do is complete the requirements. Most programs set specific time periods to complete requirements. Often, the specified period is 60 days. Nevertheless, those aspiring to become certified HVAC technicians can choose to complete requirements in as few days as they want. On the other hand, those who fail to complete requirements within the specified time period can apply for extensions.
Upon completing the required work, a diploma or certificate is sent to a specified address through a courier service. Obtaining such a document is important because they serve as proof of coursework completion.
Taking the Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Certification Exam
The certification received from online courses is different from the certification obtained from certification and accreditation agencies. After completing a course and obtaining a certificate of completion, one can opt to take a certification exam.
In the United States, the most popular certification agency is the North American Technician Excellence (NATE). There may also be additional exams required per state. Such tests can sometimes be take online.
Upon passing the a certification exam from the NATE or a similar agency, all that is left to do is continue growing a career as a certified heating, ventilating, and air conditioning technician.
References:
- Top HVAC Schools (linked above). Accessed 07 March 2010.
- HVAC Training Guide (linked above). Accessed 07 March 2010.
Related Readings:
- Taking HVAC Courses Online
- Employment and Wage Expectations After Taking HVAC Courses Online
- The Employment Advantages of Taking HVAC Courses Online
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