Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Mechanic Trade Certification
Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics or technicians repair and maintain heating and cooling systems. They are responsible for recycling or disposing of hazardous refrigerant chemicals. In addition to meeting state or local licensing requirements, HVAC techs can receive certification from trade groups.
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Training
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics explains training as a heating and air conditioning mechanic can be completed at either a secondary school, post-secondary technical school or through an apprenticeship. Technical school programs are accredited through three accrediting agencies, which are HVAC Excellence, the National Center for Construction Education and Research, and the Partnership for Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration.
Apprenticeship
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Heating and air conditioning trade groups are responsible for administering apprenticeships, that last between three and five years. BLS explains these apprenticeships combine on-the-job training and classroom education; they are administered by groups such as the Mechanical Contractors Association of America and the Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors National Association.
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Certification
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Upon completing the initial training, techs can obtain certification through groups such as the Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Institute, which offers an industry competency exam. Mechanics with less than two years of experience can obtain entry-level certification that ensures competency in residential heating and cooling equipment.
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