How many HVAC certifications are there?

EPA certification comes in 3 different levels

• Type I EPA Certification: This certification covers the repair and maintenance of small HVAC appliances. This would include things like window A/C units and residential refrigerators and freezers.

• Type II EPA Certification: This level is for larger appliances that operate at high pressure. It would include things like outdoor A/C units and commercial refrigerators.

• Type III EPA Certification: Low-pressure systems that do not fit under the small appliance category are covered by this certification.

If an HVAC technician has all 3 of the above certifications, they are universally certified and can legally work with refrigerant in any piece of HVAC equipment.

Another important certification is the R-410A certification. This is due to its extremely high pressure. With R-410A being such a commonly used refrigerant, this certification should be considered mandatory despite not being legally required.

The indoor air quality certification lets potential customers and employers know that you can provide an HVAC installation or repair that provides the cleanest air possible to those inside the buildings that you work on.

The NATE certification teaches an HVAC technician how to safely handle the equipment and measures your knowledge of the fundamentals of HVAC technology. Being NATE certified lets your customers and employers know that you have the knowledge required to diagnose and repair HVAC equipment at a professional level.

A preventive maintenance HVAC certification will give you the knowledge necessary to recognize and diagnose those problems early on so that your customers will have peace of mind when they call you for routine maintenance.