When you’re trying to find quality HVAC services, you likely want a technician that understands what they’re doing. Lots of service companies advertise experienced staff, but how can you know for sure? One of the easiest ways to confirm if an HVAC technician is knowledgeable is by looking for their certifications. HVAC certifications should demonstrate proficiency in services like air conditioning repair, installation and maintenance services as well as other important aspects of the industry.

There are multiple HVAC certifications available. Some are designed around a core body of knowledge technicians should have, while others are a result of industry standards for energy efficiency and sustainability. We’ll compare key details about some of the most common HVAC certifications you’ll find in your search for services.

NATE

The North American Technician Excellence certification is the largest program for HVAC competency, with tens of thousands of certified technicians. Many organizations like the ACCA and the federal Environmental Protection Agency cooperate with the NATE program to standardize the certification exams. To pass, participating technicians must reach a minimum score of 70%. To maintain NATE certification, technicians must receive additional education or take another exam every two years.

Total certification is a multiyear process made up of four separate tests. The first two are created for entry-level technicians while the second set of exams provide full certification including senior-level status:

  1. Ready-to-Work Certificate – This certificate provides core knowledge and skill sets that can supplement any education or training already completed. The Ready-to-Work certification is especially beneficial for recent graduates of trade programs.
  2. HVAC Support Technician Certificate – After 6 to 12 months of experience, this exam is offered to test proficiency on fundamental topics concerning full NATE certification.
  3. Core and Specialty Certification – Once a technician has been in service for two or more years, they can receive NATE certification. Technicians will have to pass both the core exam as well as a specialty exam for installation or servicing specific kinds of HVAC systems.
  4. Senior-Level Efficiency Analyst Certification – Senior status is the highest NATE certification offered. Technicians have to be certified in two specialty services—one in heating and another in air conditioning—to be eligible for applying for the senior certificate.

Certification from ASHRAE

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers was founded in 1894. ASHRAE and its members share research and education about HVAC systems with the intent to promote sustainability, energy efficiency and high indoor air quality. Through their efforts, ASHRAE creates industry standards with federal recognition. These standards apply not only to HVAC equipment, but to the buildings themselves as well as their other systems.

The majority of ASHRAE standards are focused on commercial properties and industrial facilities, as they frequently have the highest rates of energy expenditure. They’ll determine how HVAC system design can be improved as well as how equipment should be installed and serviced. ASHRAE also researches how the engineering and architectural design of the building itself affects energy use.

ACCA

Another nationwide HVAC accreditation organization, the ACCA stands for Air Conditioning Contractors of America. This organization encourages rigorous training and hosts sessions for members to attend both on-site and online. Contractors hoping for accreditation have two programs to choose from:

  • The Existing Homes Program for Residential Service and Installation (RSI): This track ensures technicians can install, replace and maintain HVAC equipment placed in residential properties including homes and apartments.
  • The New Homes Program: The New Homes track specializes in designing and installing HVAC systems with ENERGY STAR®-certified equipment for qualifying homes. Random audits are conducted to make sure members maintain their expertise.

NATE’s ICE Standardized Testing

Industry Competency Exams are handled by NATE to make sure technicians meet industry standards for entry-level (one year or less) experience. These are separate from the NATE certification exams but encompass similar topics. Testing is provided for residential HVAC equipment as well as light commercial heating and cooling. Separate tests are also available for commercial refrigeration.

To be ICE-certified for residential equipment, technicians will have to pass both a core exam as well as specialty sections for services like furnace installation, service or even knowledge of components. Commercial ICE certifications don’t include the core exam and will cover all relevant knowledge instead of specialty sections.

Certification Through the EPA

The Environmental Protection Agency provides in-depth regulations within the HVAC industry. One of the most well-known sets of regulations is the federal Clean Air Act. Under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act, the EPA requires technicians who handle equipment capable of releasing refrigerants to pass a certification test. To earn the Section 608 Technician Certification, the test should be specific to the equipment the technician works with and administered by an approved organization.

HVAC Excellence

The HVAC Excellence Certifications of Achievement cover a broad range of competency tests for varying levels of proficiency in the HVAC industry. For example, the Heating, Electrical, Air Conditioning Technology (H.E.A.T.) + student outcome assessments are written for high school students who have completed qualifying HVAC education programs. Additional testing is offered for those seeking employment as well as for experienced technicians trying to get Professional or Master Specialist accreditation.

Why You Want Certified HVAC Professionals

When you receive service from technicians who are certified by organizations like NATE, ASHRAE and the ACCA, you’re giving your HVAC system a better standard of service. Benefits of hiring certified HVAC technicians include:

Demonstrates proficiency and dedication: Technicians who are dedicated to their customers’ sense of comfort will earn certifications to prove their expertise. When you find a service company in Bishop offering NATE- or ICE-certified staff, you’ll know they go the extra mile to improve their services such as air conditioning installation.

Can help lower costs and speed up services: Technicians who spend the time and resources required for these certifications often use less time and fewer resources when servicing your equipment. Not only can things like furnace repair, maintenance and installation proceed more quickly, but the faster progress can also reduce labor expenses.

If you’re looking for certified HVAC services in Bishop, consider requesting an appointment with Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning. Get in touch by giving us a call at 760-784-9034 today.