HVAC/R Installation Technician

Start something big

HVAC essentials for your career

HVAC/R installer is often the first job many technicians begin their career with. It’s also a great way to gain field experience and learn valuable added skills in HVAC/R. In this two-semester program, you learn how to install residential and light commercial heating and air conditioning systems.

You gain essential HVAC/R skills:

replacing an old furnace and/or air conditioning system
installing ductwork—includes basic sheet metal fabrication
working with refrigerant
wiring for HVAC/R systems

All classes start with theory and end with practice. Hands-on labs put what you learned in the classroom into real world practice. Instructors are in the labs, guiding and explaining. Your lab is fully equipped with the tools and equipment you will use and see in the field.

What can you do with a HVAC/R Installation Technician Certificate?

HVAC/R Installation Technician Certificate prepares you to go to work installing systems in residential or light commercial settings. Your credits can be applied toward your associate degree, as well.

With the fast-track program at CLC, you can complete 2 certificates in 1 semester. This gives you a wider range of marketable skills for your first job in HVAC/R.
Take it even further with a second level fast-track program. That’s one more semester for two additional certificates. After which you will only need a few more classes and general education courses to earn your Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) All your certificate classes are stackable and can be applied toward your Associate degree.
Choose the certificates that match your interests and goals:

See what students love about the HVAC/R engineering technology program at CLC. Picture yourself here:

Vealo en español
Watch video on YouTube

Highlights

Earn EPA 608 Certification

Take a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved certification test to earn Section 608 Technician Certification.
Metallica Scholarships

Heavy metal scholarships available.
WIOA Program

Eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-awarded vouchers.
Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.
Career Certificate

Earn a career certificate in 1 year or less to refine your skills into an in-demand career.
Program Length: 2 Years

Full-time students finish in 2 years.

Career Outlook

Inspect structures using engineering skills to determine structural soundness and compliance with specifications, building codes, and other regulations. Inspections may be general in nature or may be limited to a specific area, such as electrical systems or plumbing.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $52,011
  
  Median
  
  $82,536
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $130,848
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $25.00
  
  Median
  
  $39.68
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $62.90
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  21.74%
  
  Certificate
  
  34.78%
  
  Some college
  
  4.35%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  17.39%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  17.39%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  4.35%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Repair, test, adjust, or install electronic equipment, such as industrial controls, transmitters, and antennas.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $59,226
  
  Median
  
  $77,345
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $120,957
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $28.47
  
  Median
  
  $37.18
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $58.15
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  22.02%
  
  Certificate
  
  32.27%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  45.71%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Conduct energy audits of buildings, building systems, or process systems. May also conduct investment grade audits of buildings or systems.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $52,011
  
  Median
  
  $82,536
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $130,848
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $25.00
  
  Median
  
  $39.68
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $62.90
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  41.38%
  
  Certificate
  
  31.03%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  3.45%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  20.69%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  3.45%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of mechanics, installers, and repairers. May also advise customers on recommended services. Excludes team or work leaders.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $51,411
  
  Median
  
  $84,673
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $127,773
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $24.71
  
  Median
  
  $40.70
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $61.43
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  57.2%
  
  Certificate
  
  13.08%
  
  Some college
  
  16.91%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  3.2%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  7.57%
  
  Doctorate
  
  2.05%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $38,478
  
  Median
  
  $65,658
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $116,593
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $18.49
  
  Median
  
  $31.57
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $56.05
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  23.49%
  
  Certificate
  
  68.08%
  
  Some college
  
  6.93%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  1.5%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Help installation, maintenance, and repair workers in maintenance, parts replacement, and repair of vehicles, industrial machinery, and electrical and electronic equipment. Perform duties such as furnishing tools, materials, and supplies to other workers; cleaning work area, machines, and tools; and holding materials or tools for other workers.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $30,314
  
  Median
  
  $38,987
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $58,001
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $14.57
  
  Median
  
  $18.74
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $27.88
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  34.03%
  
  Certificate
  
  23.48%
  
  Some college
  
  17.34%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  25.12%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  0.01%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Repair, adjust, or install all types of electric or gas household appliances, such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, and ovens.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $27,170
  
  Median
  
  $46,121
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $62,728
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $13.06
  
  Median
  
  $22.17
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $30.15
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  76.59%
  
  Certificate
  
  20.34%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  3.08%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

View more careers

Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) helps you

complete the admission process
choose an academic program
enroll in first-semester classes
get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

View program in catalog

Icon Key

Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
CLC 120	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.	2
HET 110	HET 110 Basic Refrigeration Systems Class Description This course introduces students to basic refrigeration theory and practice in Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR). The function and operational characteristics of the mechanical refrigeration system including condensers, evaporators, compressors, refrigerant metering devices, sustainable energy sources and refrigerants are covered. The use and operation of service manifolds, leak detection, system evacuation and charging, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills are covered. NOTE: The student will be required to purchase basic hand tools that will be used in this and other refrigeration and air conditioning courses.	4
HET 111	HET 111 HVACR Electricity I Class Description This course introduces students to basic AC and DC circuitry, the laws of electricity, wiring of basic HVACR equipment, and safety procedures with an emphasis placed on sustainable energy sources through the use of lectures, demonstrations, and lab experiences. The function and operational characteristics of various types of electric controls including thermostats, defrost controls, relays, and contactors are studied, along with capacitors, power distribution, motors, and protective devices. This course introduces the National Electrical Code, the use of meters, schematics, wiring diagrams, electrical troubleshooting, electrical service procedures and electrical test equipment. NOTE: Student will be required to purchase basic hand tools used in this and other HVACR courses.	4
HET 155	HET 155 HVAC/R Blueprint Reading Class Description This course introduces students to how blueprints are structured and the conventions that are used in making them and reading them for the HVAC/R field. These principles are then applied to detail drawings and assembly drawings of mechanical equipment found in the HVAC/R field. Special features of blueprints in applications ranging from sheet metal work through electrical and air conditioning work are addressed. This course concludes with information on how to sketch in the style of a blueprint to convey information simply and completely for the HVAC/R field.	1
HET 190	HET 190 EPA Certification Preparation Class Description This course introduces students to basic refrigeration, theory, and practice of the EPA mandated Section 608 Refrigeration Certification exam. The function and operational characteristics of the mechanical refrigeration system including condensers, evaporators, compressors, refrigerant metering devices, and sustainable energy sources refrigerants are covered, as well as material pertinent for students to pass the EPA exam. This course also introduces ozone depletion, the Clean Air Act, the Montreal Protocol, CFC and HCFC refrigerant replacements, recovery cylinders, shipping and transportation of refrigerants, system operational pressures, substitute refrigerant replacement, recharging techniques, refrigerant recovery and reclaiming, and basic system troubleshooting. This course reinforces the use and operation of service manifolds, leak detection, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills. NOTE: The student will be required to purchase basic hand tools that will be used in this and other refrigeration and air conditioning courses.	2

Course Highlights
Course Code	CLC 120
Course Title	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
Credits	2

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 110
Course Title	HET 110 Basic Refrigeration Systems Class Description This course introduces students to basic refrigeration theory and practice in Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR). The function and operational characteristics of the mechanical refrigeration system including condensers, evaporators, compressors, refrigerant metering devices, sustainable energy sources and refrigerants are covered. The use and operation of service manifolds, leak detection, system evacuation and charging, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills are covered. NOTE: The student will be required to purchase basic hand tools that will be used in this and other refrigeration and air conditioning courses.
Credits	4

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 111
Course Title	HET 111 HVACR Electricity I Class Description This course introduces students to basic AC and DC circuitry, the laws of electricity, wiring of basic HVACR equipment, and safety procedures with an emphasis placed on sustainable energy sources through the use of lectures, demonstrations, and lab experiences. The function and operational characteristics of various types of electric controls including thermostats, defrost controls, relays, and contactors are studied, along with capacitors, power distribution, motors, and protective devices. This course introduces the National Electrical Code, the use of meters, schematics, wiring diagrams, electrical troubleshooting, electrical service procedures and electrical test equipment. NOTE: Student will be required to purchase basic hand tools used in this and other HVACR courses.
Credits	4

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 155
Course Title	HET 155 HVAC/R Blueprint Reading Class Description This course introduces students to how blueprints are structured and the conventions that are used in making them and reading them for the HVAC/R field. These principles are then applied to detail drawings and assembly drawings of mechanical equipment found in the HVAC/R field. Special features of blueprints in applications ranging from sheet metal work through electrical and air conditioning work are addressed. This course concludes with information on how to sketch in the style of a blueprint to convey information simply and completely for the HVAC/R field.
Credits	1

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 190
Course Title	HET 190 EPA Certification Preparation Class Description This course introduces students to basic refrigeration, theory, and practice of the EPA mandated Section 608 Refrigeration Certification exam. The function and operational characteristics of the mechanical refrigeration system including condensers, evaporators, compressors, refrigerant metering devices, and sustainable energy sources refrigerants are covered, as well as material pertinent for students to pass the EPA exam. This course also introduces ozone depletion, the Clean Air Act, the Montreal Protocol, CFC and HCFC refrigerant replacements, recovery cylinders, shipping and transportation of refrigerants, system operational pressures, substitute refrigerant replacement, recharging techniques, refrigerant recovery and reclaiming, and basic system troubleshooting. This course reinforces the use and operation of service manifolds, leak detection, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills. NOTE: The student will be required to purchase basic hand tools that will be used in this and other refrigeration and air conditioning courses.
Credits	2

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
HET 130	HET 130 Heating I Residential Appliances Class Description This course introduces students to the basic principles, practices, operations, service and installation of residential heating equipment through the use of lectures, demonstrations, and lab experiences. The function and operational characteristics of residential heating equipment, its wiring, and safety procedures are studied. Electric controls such as thermostats, defrost controls, relays, and contactors are studied, as well as capacitors, power distribution, motors, protective devices, system malfunction diagnosis, corrective procedures, and the refrigerants used in residential heating. This course also introduces a basic understanding of load calculations, the installation and service of residential heating appliances, ventilation requirements, and piping techniques. This course reinforces the use and operation of electrical and mechanical test equipment, wiring diagrams and schematics, service manifolds, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills. NOTE: Student will be required to purchase basic hand tools used in this and other HVACR courses.	4
HET 251	HET 251 Sheet Metal Fabrication Class Description This course introduces students to methods of sheet metal fabrication. Content includes laying-out and fabricating sheet metal ducts and fittings used in heating and air conditioning installations. This course emphasizes reading blueprints common to the sheet metal trade, floor plans, elevations, section, detail and mechanical plans. It requires students to develop a layout of an air conditioning duct system and fittings. Fabrication of these parts, including proper use of hand-tools and shop equipment used to fabricate duct systems and fittings will be focus as a main competency. Some of the topics covered will include methods of measurements, layouts, tolerances, allowances for joints, and other fittings.	1
HET 252	HET 252 Air Conditioning III Installation & Service Class Description This course covers various types of residential heating and air-conditioning service techniques and installation procedures, including equipment selection, layout, duct fabrication, piping techniques, troubleshooting, codes, preventive maintenance, multiple systems, and system accessories. Students will learn the techniques of the service and installation needs of the residential heating and air-conditioning industry through lectures, demonstrations, and lab experiences. The function and operational characteristics of various types of residential heating and air-conditioning equipment, its wiring, and safety procedures are studied. Electric controls including thermostats, defrost controls, relays, and contactors are studied, as well as capacitors, power distribution, motors, protective devices, system malfunction diagnosis, corrective procedures, and the refrigerants used in the residential heating and air-conditioning industry. Equipment selection, layout, duct fabrication, troubleshooting, codes, preventive maintenance, system balancing, component capacity, multiple systems, system accessories codes, and preventive maintenance concerning residential heating and air-conditioning appliances are also covered. This course reinforces load calculations, ventilation requirements, piping techniques, the use and operation of electrical and mechanical test equipment, wiring diagrams and schematics, service manifolds, test equipment, flaring, and soldering and brazing skills. NOTE: Student will be required to purchase basic hand tools used in this and other HVACR courses.	4

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 130
Course Title	HET 130 Heating I Residential Appliances Class Description This course introduces students to the basic principles, practices, operations, service and installation of residential heating equipment through the use of lectures, demonstrations, and lab experiences. The function and operational characteristics of residential heating equipment, its wiring, and safety procedures are studied. Electric controls such as thermostats, defrost controls, relays, and contactors are studied, as well as capacitors, power distribution, motors, protective devices, system malfunction diagnosis, corrective procedures, and the refrigerants used in residential heating. This course also introduces a basic understanding of load calculations, the installation and service of residential heating appliances, ventilation requirements, and piping techniques. This course reinforces the use and operation of electrical and mechanical test equipment, wiring diagrams and schematics, service manifolds, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills. NOTE: Student will be required to purchase basic hand tools used in this and other HVACR courses.
Credits	4

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 251
Course Title	HET 251 Sheet Metal Fabrication Class Description This course introduces students to methods of sheet metal fabrication. Content includes laying-out and fabricating sheet metal ducts and fittings used in heating and air conditioning installations. This course emphasizes reading blueprints common to the sheet metal trade, floor plans, elevations, section, detail and mechanical plans. It requires students to develop a layout of an air conditioning duct system and fittings. Fabrication of these parts, including proper use of hand-tools and shop equipment used to fabricate duct systems and fittings will be focus as a main competency. Some of the topics covered will include methods of measurements, layouts, tolerances, allowances for joints, and other fittings.
Credits	1

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 252
Course Title	HET 252 Air Conditioning III Installation & Service Class Description This course covers various types of residential heating and air-conditioning service techniques and installation procedures, including equipment selection, layout, duct fabrication, piping techniques, troubleshooting, codes, preventive maintenance, multiple systems, and system accessories. Students will learn the techniques of the service and installation needs of the residential heating and air-conditioning industry through lectures, demonstrations, and lab experiences. The function and operational characteristics of various types of residential heating and air-conditioning equipment, its wiring, and safety procedures are studied. Electric controls including thermostats, defrost controls, relays, and contactors are studied, as well as capacitors, power distribution, motors, protective devices, system malfunction diagnosis, corrective procedures, and the refrigerants used in the residential heating and air-conditioning industry. Equipment selection, layout, duct fabrication, troubleshooting, codes, preventive maintenance, system balancing, component capacity, multiple systems, system accessories codes, and preventive maintenance concerning residential heating and air-conditioning appliances are also covered. This course reinforces load calculations, ventilation requirements, piping techniques, the use and operation of electrical and mechanical test equipment, wiring diagrams and schematics, service manifolds, test equipment, flaring, and soldering and brazing skills. NOTE: Student will be required to purchase basic hand tools used in this and other HVACR courses.
Credits	4

Total Credit Hours

22

*Cost is estimated based on recommended pathway credit hours. This includes in-district tuition and other fees, such as books and materials before financial aid is applied, as well as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

HVACR Engineering Technology at CLC

Get the bigger picture

This certificate is just one possible way to study HVAC/R Engineering Technology. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the HVACR Engineering Technology program overview

Frequently asked questions

The HVAC/R Installation Technician Certificate takes just two semesters. You learn the essentials you need to know to get hired and do a great job installing residential and light commercial systems. Your classes focus on:
- safety
- refrigeration systems
- sustainable energy sources and refrigerants
- system controls
- ventilation requirements
- piping techniques
Key skills you build in individual courses and through the whole sequence:
- soldering and brazing techniques
- reading blueprints and technical diagrams
- wiring basics
- testing and troubleshooting HVAC/R systems
- sheet metal fabrication
We’re always upgrading! You can look forward to updated labs, new equipment and the latest industry tools and technology.
Experienced faculty: Your instructors play a crucial role in ensuring your best possible experience. Together with the department chairs, they provide an environment where you can thrive and succeed.

Program flexibility: This program is stackable so you can earn individual certificates by taking specific courses. These courses can also apply toward an A.A.S. if you decide to work towards a degree.
Classes engage your brain, your hands and your muscle memory. You learn the theories and ideas first, then apply them in labs and team projects. In this way, you build confidence in your solutions and in your ability to do the work.
When your first boss tests to see if you know how to do the work on a residential HVAC/R system, you bring everything you learned in lectures and labs to show you know the how and why.
Most of your classmates (but not all) have been out of high school for a while. Some may be working, some may be changing careers and others are just starting out. In group projects and with the guidance of your instructors, you learn how to work with others on HVAC/R puzzles, just as you will on the job.
No—the hands-on labs are essential in every course. In-person classes keep your program on track. You also learn to interact in person with faculty and peers.

Natasha Phillips
Graduate
“Heating, ventilation and air conditioning is a trade skill that’s always going to be needed, so I can have a stable career.”
Natasha studied HVAC/R Engineering Technology at CLC. A Workforce Equity Initiative grant paid for her education so she can start a new career in a high-demand industry.
Read Natasha's story

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

CLC has some of the lowest tuition around. Financial aid and scholarships are available—even for working adults.

Paying for college

Request info

Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.

Send me info

Visit us

Get a feel for life on campus when you register for a tour. We'd love to show you around. Oh, and bring family and friends along for the fun, if you want!

Take a tour

Get started

Start your application today—it’s free and easy to complete. When you’re ready, we’re ready to help you take the next step.

Start today!

Start something big

HVAC essentials for your career

What can you do with a HVAC/R Installation Technician Certificate?

Fast-track your career with 2 certificates in 4 months for better job prospects

Highlights

Earn EPA 608 Certification

Metallica Scholarships

WIOA Program

Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

Career Certificate

Program Length: 2 Years

Career Outlook

Construction and Building Inspectors

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Energy Auditors

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Home Appliance Repairers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Need help?

Recommended Pathway

Icon Key

Semester 1 13 Credits

Semester 2 9 Credits

Total Credit Hours

HVACR Engineering Technology at CLC

Get the bigger picture

Frequently asked questions

What will I learn in this certificate program?

Why should I choose CLC?

How will I learn in this program?

Are there students like me in the program?

Can I take my classes online?

Natasha Phillips

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

Request info

Visit us

Get started