6 month trade school HVAC programs are compact, teaching you only what you need to know to become a certified HVAC technician. Because the programs are shorter than associate degree programs, you may also pay less in tuition than if you had enrolled in a traditional 4-year university. Learn more about what a 6-month HVAC program is like below.
Classes in a 6 Month HVAC Program
A typical 6 month HVAC/R program will likely contain the following classes:
- Electricity Basics - These classes will teach you the basics of working with electricity. You will learn how electricity works, how to handle it safely, and how HVAC systems are wired. You will also learn about motors and their applications in HVAC/R.
- Refrigeration Basics - These classes will teach you the basics of refrigeration, including types of refrigerants, their systems, and the tools you will need to diagnose issues and resolve them.
- Residential HVAC Systems - Residential HVAC classes cover gas and electric furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, and other heating and cooling systems commonly found in homes. These classes demonstrate the mechanical and electrical systems in these units, teach you how to install and repair them, as well as some basic troubleshooting techniques.
- Commercial HVAC Systems - In these courses, you learn how to work with bigger and more intricate HVAC systems. This includes working with large fans, different types of refrigerants, recharging systems, and brazing. You also learn how to install these larger HVAC systems.
- Refrigeration Systems and Practices - Some HVAC programs also teach you about large walk-in refrigerators and freezers.
- Troubleshooting Techniques - These classes focus on teaching you how to troubleshoot complicated issues with HVAC systems.
These HVAC programs are generally designed to prepare you for EPA certification and an entry-level position in the field. Some programs, especially the associate degree programs, also cover topics including construction site safety, trades safety, and resume building, along with job seeking classes.
HVAC Classroom vs Lab Work
The amount of time you spend in the classroom versus performing lab work will depend heavily on your program. Regardless of your program however, your classes should put an emphasis on spending time in the lab so you can learn hands-on skills to prepare you for the field.
Required HVAC Tools
Similarly, your HVAC classes may or may not require you to buy tools, and the tools you may need for each class can vary. Some schools require you to purchase tools directly from the institution as a kit, while others may present you with a list to purchase. Others might provide you with tools in labs. Each school varies, so contact your chosen school to get an understanding of their policies.
Schools with Fast HVAC Training Programs
There are many different types of HVAC programs you can choose from. Certification can seem like a lengthy process – but it doesn’t need to be. Here’s a list of schools that offer HVAC programs that take less than a year to complete:
HVAC Programs in Under 6 Months
- ForgeNow - 8 weeks
- Hands On HVAC School - 5 weeks
HVAC Programs in About 6 Months
- RSI - 6 to 10 months
- Southern Careers Institute - 6 to 12 months
- Tulsa Welding School Jacksonville - 7 months
HVAC Programs a Little Over 6 Months
- Delta Technical College - 8 months
- Midwest Technical Institute - 9 months
- Career College of Northern Nevada - 9 months
Ready to jump-start your career? Enroll in an HVAC program and begin your journey in the field. Find an HVAC program near you.
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