Trade Schools
As an HVAC technician, you’ll be responsible for maintaining and repairing heating and cooling systems.
In addition to the technical skills needed for the job, you’ll need some basic customer service skills when interacting with customers.
One of the benefits of becoming an HVAC technician is that there’s lots of room for growth.
Over time, you can earn more certifications, which allow you to make more money.
You can also choose to work for a company or own your own business.
Average HVAC Technician Tuition
How much it costs to get training as an HVAC technician will depend on your location, and the type of program you choose.
You have two basic options.
You can get a diploma or a certificate from a technical school.
This is typically the least expensive and fastest option.
You can also choose to attend a community college.
Tuition costs range from $1,200 to $35,000.
Technical School Tuition
Technical school HVAC programs can usually be completed in 6 to 12 months.
Tuition costs for technical schools range from $1,200 to $15,000.
Generally, you can expect to pay between $5,000 to $10,000 for these programs.
Washburn Institute of Technology, in Topeka, Kansas, for example, costs $6,397 for the first semester and $4,190 for the second semester.
Total costs are about $10,700 including fees and textbooks.
Associate’s Degree Programs
Associate’s degree programs are typically more expensive than technical schools and take longer to complete.
You can expect to spend two years in an associate’s degree program, and costs typically range from $15,000 to $30,000.
Central New Mexico Community College offers the HVAC associate degree for $3,700 for in-state students and $19,500 for out-of-state students.
Gadsden State Community College, in Gadsden Alabama, costs $12,460 for in-state students and $21,800 for out-of-state students.
Financing Options
The costs of becoming an HVAC technician can seem expensive, but it doesn’t have to be a burden.
You can apply for financial aid and scholarships to help cover the costs.
Student loans can also help you get the education you need without breaking the bank.
Today, some schools offer their own payment plans to make it easier for students to attend.
Once you’ve chosen the school you would like to attend, you can speak to them about your financing options.
Certification and Licensing Costs
The beginning, or entry-level, NATE exam is only $50.
You can then take the HVAC Assistant certification exam, which costs about $500.
You’ll need to renew this certification every 2 years.
The EPA 608 certification is required for anyone who will be working with refrigerants, as part of the Clean Air Act.
The EPA 608 certification cost varies based on your location.
This exam has four portions.
You’ll need to pass the first portion before taking the next three.
Passing all 4 portions gives you a universal EPA 608 certification, which means you can work on all types of appliances.
The universal certification usually costs around $150.
Is it Worth Becoming an HVAC Technician?
Many people find it well worth it to become an HVAC technician, but it’s not right for everyone.
Let’s take a look at a few reasons why it may be worth it for you to become an HVAC technician.
Good Compensation
Your main motivation for becoming an HVAC technician is likely to earn a good salary.
The average salary is $49,030 per year.
Salaries range from $42,366 to $57,767.
How much you earn will depend on your experience, certifications, and location.
When you compare the cost of HVAC training with your yearly salary, it’s easy to see it’s a wise decision.
You can expect to pay between $10,000 to $20,000 for most HVAC programs, which you can earn back within the first 6 months of your new career.
Job Security
HVAC techs are in high demand, and this demand is only expected to grow over time.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC technician jobs are expected to grow by 6% over the next decade, which is faster than average.
While advances in technology are threatening to put an end to some trades, HVAC techs will be needed for the foreseeable future.
Get Started Quickly
Becoming an HVAC technician can take less than a year, which allows you to start your career quickly.
The faster you begin your new career, the faster you are earning money rather than spending it.
Opportunities for Advancement
One of the beautiful things about becoming an HVAC technician is there’s a lot of room to advance in your career.
As you gain years of experience, you can get specialized certifications.
These certifications can help you earn more money and gain more customers.
Key Takeaways
Becoming an HVAC technician typically takes around 1-2 years.
Costs of HVAC training range from $1,2000 to $30,000, with most programs costing between $10,000 and $20,000.
