What to Look for in an HVAC School

Great Careers Start Here
  • This field is hidden when viewing the form
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Are you thinking of joining the HVAC trade? Hands-on training from the right people with the right equipment can get you started, but how do you choose the right HVAC school? They may all seem alike from the outside, but when you take a closer look, you find their curriculum, instruction style, delivery mode, and required length of commitment may all be different. Here are a few important components you should look for in an HVAC school:

Comprehensive HVAC Training and Curriculum

The HVAC program you choose should offer a comprehensive curriculum that provides in-depth training in heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and refrigeration. The courses should cover important topics like HVAC science, electrical work, refrigeration, duct work, piping, and fuel systems. They should teach you about residential and commercial AC and heat pumps, gas and oil heating systems, and energy conservation as it relates to HVAC units. You also need to learn about building codes and blueprints, industry regulations, and safety protocols.

Well-Equipped Lab Space for HVAC Training

Another hallmark of a good school is a quality lab where you can put your newfound knowledge into practice. The lab space for students should be well-equipped with the latest tools and machinery that HVAC technicians use, including cutters, multimeters, and gauges. It should include a variety of replica HVAC units that you can practice on to gain a better understanding of their mechanisms, parts, and common issues. If your program covers refrigeration, you might also find refrigerators and commercial ice machines that you can learn to diagnose and repair. The lab should also contain workspaces where you can sharpen your skills in electrical work and air ducts.

Experienced HVAC Instructors

An instructor who’s an expert in textbook knowledge of HVAC units is helpful, but an experienced instructor who’s spent years in the industry can be invaluable to your career. Find a program that’s taught by instructors who are also licensed HVAC technicians. This validates the quality of your education because you get to learn from people who know what it’s like to work as a tradesperson. They can share the lessons they’ve learned, explain the differences and similarities in commercial and residential work, and offer tips on how to deal with clients. Their insight can prove even more useful than the information you get from textbooks and manuals.

Flexible Format for HVAC School

As an adult learner, you need more flexibility than you did in high school. If you have a family, a job, or other adult responsibilities, you need a program that can work with your schedule, not against it. Choose an HVAC school that offers training in a blended learning format. This means that some classes will be offered on campus while others can be taken online. The online coursework can be accessed when it’s most convenient for you. The on-campus classes include your lab time so you can make the most of in-person learning.

Are you looking for an HVAC school? Contact Charter College today. We offer a Certificate in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration that could be the right for you. With our dedicated faculty and state-of-the-art training facilities, you can prepare for an entry-level career in HVAC in as few as 10 months. Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form to learn more.