It is predicted by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics that the employment opportunities for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers will go up by 13% from 2018 to 2028. Therefore, it may be a good idea to find employment in this field. If you are looking for information on how to get HVAC certified in New York, then you should consider reading this guide.
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What Are the Duties of a HVAC Technician?
HVAC technicians usually perform the following tasks:
- Install, maintain, and clean HVACR systems.
- Install wiring and electrical components.
- Test and inspect HVAC systems.
- Replace or repair defective and worn out parts.
- Make recommendations on how to improve system performance.
The Procedure of Becoming HVAC Certified in New York
Below are the stages involved in becoming a certified HVAC technician.
- Obtain a GED/High School Diploma
The first step to become an HVAC professional is to obtain a GED or a high school diploma, which will train you to get into a vocational institute.
- Enroll in an Accredited HVAC Program
Many HVAC systems are integrating more complex and technologically advanced mechanisms that need superior technical knowledge. This means that you will have to receive post-secondary instructions from a trade or a technical school. Many community colleges are also offering HVAC training programs.
You can enroll in an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S) in HVAC-R Technology or an HVAC-R diploma/technical certificate program. Depending on the type of program you enroll in, your HVAC training will take around 6 months to 2 years to complete.
These programs will teach you about designs of HVAC-R systems, HVAC controls, fabrication and joining techniques, electrical fundamentals and commercial refrigeration. Some of the modules that you will study include Electric Motors and Components, Principles of Refrigeration, Fundamentals of Electricity, and Applied Electricity & Troubleshooting.
- Participate in an Apprenticeship Program
Working as an apprentice will help you learn the core job skills. It will include hands-on technical training and preparation for more challenging positions in the job market. With high-quality apprenticeship coupled with proper education, you will be ready to enter the competitive job market.
- Obtain a Professional Certification
If you want to stay competitive in the HVAC industry, you have to obtain the best training and industry specific certifications. The North American Technicians Excellence (NATE) offers one of the most recognized HVAC certifications, so you can get your certification from there. In order to get the certification, you will be tested on the fundamental job knowledge and skills, and if you pass, you will be given the certification.
Please note that many certification organizations only consider those applicants who have a certain amount of work experience on their resumes, therefore you should do your research before applying.
Moreover, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has made it mandatory for all technicians who handle, purchase, or work with refrigerants to be certified. You will also have to clear an EPA-approved exam to get your Technician Certification.
Requirements to Become HVAC Certified in New York
In order to apply for an HVAC certification, you must ensure that you meet the following criteria:
- You must have GED/high school diploma along with a Diploma/Technical Certificate/Associate’s degree in HVAC or HVAC-R Technology.
- Every certification organization has its own work experience requirements – You are advised to check with the organization before applying.
How Much Does an HVAC Professional Make in New York?
The career prospects for heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers seem bright. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that HVAC professionals working in New York made a yearly mean pay of $59,780 in 2018.
Salary Trend of HVAC Professionals
The salary figures of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers for the past three years are mentioned below:
| 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Mean Salary (IL) | $55,650 | $57,680 | $59,780 |
| Annual Mean Salary (US) | $48,320 | $49,530 | $50,160 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
The table shows that the annual mean wage of HVAC mechanic and installers in New York has followed an upward trend from 2016 to 2018, which indicates that this profession offers lucrative opportunities. Moreover, it can be seen that the state averages are higher than the national average for all three years.
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