HVACR Technician

In Demand

HVAC Training Online

If you're looking for an in-demand career that allows you to make the most of your troubleshooting and mechanical skills, becoming an HVAC technician could be right for you! Through our online HVACR Technician Career Diploma Program, you can build the foundational skills for an entry-level career and prepare for necessary EPA certifications

  • Our HVAC Training online prepares students for jobs like HVAC technician, HVAC installer, refrigeration mechanic, refrigeration transporter, and refrigeration technician.
  • HVACR technicians are in-demand.
  • Prepare for required Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification, the cost of which is included in your tuition.
  • Snap-on Tools discount for students.
  • Our online programs are flexible enough for you to finish them at a pace that works for you, based on how much time you can dedicate to your coursework each week.
Accredited
Online
Self Paced

Save up to $290 Ends 10/16/2024

Cost of Program

$799

$1,089 Save $290

or

$59/month, Start for as low as $20

1-800-471-3232 (9AM - 9PM ET)

What You Will Learn

  1. How to identify drawings, technical diagrams, and specification charts required for installation and repair of HVACR systems.
  2. How to list procedures for installing, inspecting, testing, repairing, and maintaining HVACR systems.
  3. How to display good work practices, demonstrate care for the environment, and follow the law when handling refrigerants.
  4. How to understand and apply government and state regulations and guidelines to installing, maintaining, and repairing refrigeration, heating, and cooling systems.
Full Program Goal & Outcomes

HVACR Training Online Career Outcomes

Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers Average salary*

AVG SALARY*

$48,630/yr

NUMBER OF JOBS*

394,100

JOB GROWTH*

5%


Penn Foster's accredited online HVAC classes are designed to prepare students to be job-ready post-graduation through online simulations, animations, and how-to videos. You'll also prepare and sit for the required EPA certification exam which is necessary for employers to hire you.

State Licensing Requirements

Licensing and/or certification requirements for jobs in this field are not the same in every state and may include educational, testing, and/or experiential requirements beyond those offered in the Penn Foster Program. Prospective students should contact the state professional licensing board or similar regulatory body in the state(s) where they plan to work to determine their requirements before enrolling in this program.  See the State Licensing page for contact information for state licensing/regulatory boards and certain industry licensing information.

How to Become an HVAC Technician

There are a few steps to becoming a certified HVAC technician:


  1. Earn your high school diploma. The first step to becoming an HVAC technician is to earn your high school diploma or complete an equivalent exam, such as the GED.
  2. Complete HVAC training. To prepare for a career in HVAC, you need to learn the foundational skills and concepts required to be successful and perform the required job duties. This usually involves earning a career diploma through a career school or technical college.
  3. Get certified. In order to work in the field, you’ll need to have your Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification. This certification is required to install and repair heating and cooling systems, and to work with refrigerants.

HVAC Training Online Curriculum

  • 39.8 Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
  • 9 Courses
  • 23 Exams


Estimated completion time:

  • Fast track = 5 months
  • Average time = 9 months

With Penn Foster, you can learn at whatever pace works best for you. Some learners will be more comfortable moving faster, and dedicating more time, and the fast track estimate will apply to them. The average track will apply to most learners who can dedicate a few hours per week to completing their coursework. The estimated completion times are based on completion times for learners enrolled in this program from May 2021 - April 2022, excluding withdrawals.

In our online HVAC training program, you'll build the necessary skills and knowledge to become an HVACR technician on your own time, from home. You'll also prepare to sit for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification exam. Your online classes include:


  • Fundamentals of HVACR
  • Residential and Light Commercial HVACR Systems
  • Refrigeration Systems
  • Commercial Refrigeration Systems

Show Full Curriculum

HVACR Technician Student Success Stories

Our HVACR training students have found rewarding positions at companies such as the Federal Aviation Administration, Electrolux, and Intel. Learn more about their experiences with the online training program.
View Student Success Stories
quote icon

Jermaine H.

Penn Foster Graduate, 2021

“I needed Penn Foster to get my feet in the door of a career of my choice. Penn Foster helped with that in a tremendous way...”

Need to provide training for your workers?

Penn Foster currently works with hundreds of leading employers to meet their unique organizational needs.
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HVAC Training Online Tuition

Penn Foster's HVAC training online is meant to be affordable for your budget. With payment plan options, you can choose the best one for your needs and get started on the path to becoming an HVAC technician today.

Option 1: Pay in full

Save up to $290 Ends 10/16/2024

Cost of Program1

$799

$1,089 Save $290

  • Best price. Best value.
  • Pay the full cost today
  • No monthly payments
Enroll Now

Option 2: Monthly Auto Pay Plan

Save up to $90 Ends 10/16/2024

Cost of Program1

$999

$1,089 Save $90

  • Pay $59 per month
  • Start for $20 down
  • All major credit and debit cards accepted
Enroll Now

Option 3: Monthly Mail Pay Plan

cost of program1

$1,089

  • Pay $59 per month
  • Start for $49 down
  • Mail your payments
Enroll Now

California residents please click here for Required California Disclosures.

Need more info or ready to enroll?

Looking for more information on transfer credits, military benefits, or our refund policy? Find this information and more about tuition and enrollment here.

Tuition & Payment Options

We're here to help. Call 1-800-471-3232 (9AM - 9PM ET)

Request Info

Our Proven HVAC Learning Model

Empowering you to reach your goals

Flexible

  • No set start date
  • No exam due dates
  • Self-Paced

Interactive

  • Digital study guides
  • Presentations and animations
  • Simulations and videos

Connected

  • 24/7 access to online resources
  • Online student community
  • Dedicated Learner Center

Supportive

  • Expert faculty
  • Dedicated student services
  • Robust learning resources

Related Programs

HVACR Training Online FAQs

How much do HVAC technicians make per hour?

Credentialed HVAC technicians made an average of $23.38 per hour in 2021, or $48,630 per year.* Salary and hourly pay for technicians can vary based on experience, the state you live in, and your employer.

Do you need a high school diploma to become an HVAC technician?

Yes. To work as an HVAC technician, most employers require applicants to have successfully completed relevant education like a career training program and many – if not all – require licensing to handle refrigerants. Entry-level HVACR technicians may need to complete an apprenticeship under experienced workers or supervisors after graduating from a trade school or vocational program. Click here for contact information for state licensing/regulatory boards and certain industry licensing information. To qualify for admission to a training program, online and traditional schools require either a high school diploma or high school equivalency exams. You can also contact your  state licensing/regulatory boards for more information on industry licensing.

What is the job description of an HVAC technician?

HVAC technicians work on heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems that control the temperature and air quality in buildings. Daily work can include installing, cleaning, and maintaining HVAC systems, inspecting and testing systems, and repairing worn devices. Technicians can find themselves working as a contractor on both industrial and residential HVAC systems depending on their employer.

Why become an HVAC technician?

If you’re looking for a career in a hands-on field that offers the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, an HVAC technician job could be right for you. Besides allowing you to use your technical and problem-solving skills, the demand for HVAC technicians is projected to grow 5% over the next ten years, adding 20,200 new positions.*

What is the most common HVAC certification?

The most common certification for HVAC technicians is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification. This certification is required to install and repair heating and cooling systems, and to work with refrigerants.

How long is HVAC school?

When you study to become an HVAC technician with Penn Foster  your classes are all self-paced, meaning you can take more or less time depending on what study schedule works best for you.

How many certifications should I have in HVAC?

There is no set answer to how many certifications you should have. It is necessary to complete the EPA certification, however, there are many other Industry Competency Exams you can complete depending on the type of job you want and the state in which you live.

Does HVAC require a lot of math?

HVAC does not require advanced math skills, but you will need some foundational skills. Our Career Diploma covers the basic math you’ll need to properly perform electrical measurements, calculations, and conversions.

What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 HVAC?

Type 1 HVAC technicians work with appliances that contain less than five pounds of refrigerant, while Type 2 HVAC technicians work on high-pressure appliances.

What is the sequence of HVAC qualification?

To become an HVAC technician, you’ll need to:

  • Gain an education
  • Get certified
  • Complete an apprenticeship

The next steps depend on your career goals and where you live.