Are you considering skilled trades training for a career in the HVAC industry? It’s a growing field with a promising job outlook.[1] But, the equipment is becoming more and more complex, leading many employers to hire those with formal HVAC training over other applicants.[2]
This means HVAC school could be a good investment, but how much does it cost?
HVAC Technician Definition
What exactly is an HVAC technician? These tradespeople service heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment—that’s where the term “HVAC” comes from.[3] Those who work on refrigeration equipment too are called “HVAC/R technicians.” Some techs also install and repair major appliances. They’re known as “HVAC/R-Mar Technicians.”
HVAC Technician Career Path
People can take different paths to becoming an HVAC technician. But, training and certification are usually two important parts of any path.
Step 2: HVAC Training
Working on sophisticated mechanical equipment and electrical wiring can require technical skills. Most HVAC techs learn these skills in vocational schools, community colleges, or through apprenticeships.[7]
Step 3: EPA Section 608 Technician Certification
Most HVAC/R equipment uses refrigerants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires techs to have Section 608 Technician Certification to buy or handle refrigerants.[8]
Step 4: On-the-Job Training
Working under an experienced HVAC technician is common for new hires. Usually, they start out with simple jobs like insulating refrigerant lines and move up to more complex tasks, for example checking electrical circuits.[9]
Step 5: Industry Certifications
Once they are working in the field, HVAC techs can improve their career and earning potential with industry certifications from organizations like North American Technical Excellence (NATE) and HVAC Excellence.[10]
HVAC Training Cost Comparison
There are a few options when it comes to HVAC training. Many vocational schools and community colleges offer HVAC programs. It’s also possible to learn the trade through an apprenticeship.[11]
Let’s see how they compare.
| HVAC Training Type | Tuition Cost | Time | Description |
| HVAC School/Trade School | Ranges between $1,200 and $15,000 | 6-12 Months | Hands-On Training in Skills Needed for Entry-Level HVAC Jobs |
| Community College | In-State Students $4,868 per Year
Out-of-State Students $8,614 per Year | 6 Months to 2 Years | Hands-On Training in Skills Needed for Entry-Level HVAC Jobs General Education Courses for Associate Degree |
| Apprenticeship | $500-$2,000 | 3-5 Years | On-the-Job Training |
When calculating the cost of HVAC training, it’s important to consider other expenses, like books and supplies and room and board. These can add to the cost of HVAC school.
Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) offers an HVAC/R-MAR Technician Program at its campuses in Springfield, Moline, and East Peoria, Illinois. The 9-month program is also available at the school’s campus in Springfield, Missouri.
HVAC Certification Cost
HVAC certification is usually the next step after completing an HVAC training program. The cost of certification depends on the type.
| Type of Certification | Cost Range | Description |
| EPA Section 608 Technician | $24.95 to $120 | Multiple-Choice Question Exam(s) Type I Taken Online Type II, III, and Universal Taken at Certified Test Center |
| North American Technical Excellence (NATE) | Starts at $24.95 | Exam(s) Taken Online and at NATE Approved Testing Centers |
| Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES) | $25 to $30 for Exams $108 to $128 for Membership
| Exams Taken at Local RSES Chapters |
Starting on the HVAC Career Path
How much HVAC school costs depends on where and how you learn the trade. If you want to enter the field quickly, a 9-month HVAC training program could be the way to go. With much faster than average employment growth predicted for this industry, it’s likely you’ll see a return on your investment.[18]
Want to learn more about the cost of MTI’s HVAC/R-MAR Technician Program? Fill out the form below to contact your local campus.
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[1] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm#tab-1
[2] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm#tab-4
[3] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm#tab-1
[4] https://www.careerbuilder.com/advice/high-school-diplomas-vs-geds-do-employers-care
[5] https://study.com/articles/How_to_Become_an_HVAC_Technician_Education_and_Career_Roadmap.html
[6] https://study.com/vocational_schools.html
[7] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm#tab-4
[8] https://www.epa.gov/section608/section-608-technician-certification-0
[9] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm#tab-4
[10] https://hvactraining101.com/hvac-technician-certification/
[11] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm#tab-4
[12] https://www.midwesttech.edu/documents/GE/SPIL-HVAC.html
[13] https://www.communitycollegereview.com/avg-tuition-stats/national-data
[14] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm#tab-4
[15] http://education.costhelper.com/hvac-schools.html
[16] https://study.com/blog/community-college-vs-technical-college-know-the-differences.html
[17] http://www.hvwtech.com/hvac-certification/
[18] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm