As long as there are heating and cooling systems for climate control, there will be a need for HVAC technicians to install the maintain those systems. Even during the ebb and flow in the construction industry, employment of HVAC/R technicians remains consistent. Commercial and residential customers rely on technicians to install or upgrade new systems and maintain and repair their existing ones. HVAC/R training programs combine theory and practical instruction designed to equip students with the skills to provide a comfortable interior environment in an efficient and code-compliant way. These formal training programs combined with industry certification become increasingly essential as older systems are replaced with more energy-efficient, complex systems. Certifications, such as the EPA certification, hold technicians accountable to industry standards and often a prerequisite to employment in the industry.
Fortis Institute – Houston North
The HVAC Diploma program offered by Fortis College prepares students with skills and knowledge to qualify for employment in the industry. The comprehensive program includes extensive hands-on training in servicing residential and commercial refrigeration, gas and oil furnaces, heat pumps, electric furnaces, and air conditioning equipment. Students will learn how to use various tools to work with refrigerant lines and air ducts. These include voltmeters, pressure gauges, manometers, thermometers, and other testing devices. Course topics include thermodynamics, commercial refrigeration concepts, HVACR controls, practical applications of electricity, industrial refrigeration, gas heating systems, oil heating systems, water-based heating systems, residential and commercial air conditioning, controls, motors, and motor controls, and EPA certification preparation. Graduates will be required to take and pass the EPA certification exam.
Program overview:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Diploma
Duration: 48 instructional weeks
Clock hours: 960
Credit hours: 64 quarter credits
Prerequisites:
- A high school diploma or recognized equivalent
- Be 17 years of age or older
- Complete the application information form
- Attend an interview with an Admissions Representative
- Take and pass the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam with a score of at least 11
- Pay the enrollment fee and complete all tuition payment requirements
- Sign the Fortis Institute Enrollment Agreement
Program cost:
The total program cost of $18,854 includes tuition, enrollment fee, books, uniform, kit, and credential exam.
Website: https://www.fortis.edu/campuses/texas/houston-north/hvac.html
Address: 450 N. Sam Houston Parkway E., Suite 200 Houston, TX 77060
Phone: (713) 332-0062
Teamwork Network Inc.
Teamwork Network Inc conducts an introductory HVACR Service Technician course for adults who want to specialize in the field of air conditioning, heating, and refrigeration. Students will acquire technical and soft skills related to the installation of air conditioning systems. There will be an emphasis on electrical, installation techniques, refrigerant recovery, and the tools required to complete the job for residential and commercial customers. Course titles include Basic Refrigeration Theory, Electricity for HVACR, System Properties & Measurements, System Properties, and Measurements & Gas Heat, EPA Exam Preparation. Students must obtain a final grade of C or above to graduate from the program.
Program overview:
HVAC Maintenance Certificate
Duration: 6 weeks (day class), 9 weeks (evening class), 19 weeks (weekend class)
Clock hours: 180
Prerequisites:
- Present a valid government-issued photo ID
- Attend an interview with an Admissions Representative
- Demonstrate English competency including reading, writing, and verbal skills
- Must demonstrate the ability to attend all classes, labs, and internship hours
- Have some level of mechanical ability to succeed and understand the material
- Must have or will obtain a valid TX driver’s license
- Must be able to pass a criminal background check – required by most contractors
- Must be able to pass a random drug screen test
- Must have the financial stability to maintain enrollment as a student
- Finalize financial arrangements before the start of classes
Program cost:
The total program cost of $6,000 includes tuition, tool kit, registration fee, lab fee and supplies, and study guide. Payment plans are available to all students.
Website: https://hvacrschoolofhouston.com/training
Address: 6800 Bintliff Drive, Houston, Texas 77074, United States
Phone: (713) 269-3288
Houston Community College
Houston Community College’s Air Conditioning Technician I & II courses are designed to prepare students with basic entry-level skills to assume employment in the residential and commercial heating and air-conditioning service industry. The curriculum, comprising of 160 hours of coursework will cover the essentials of electrical and mechanical systems of air-conditioning and heating systems. There will also be intensive preparation for AP certification. Morning and evening schedules are available.
Program overview:
Air Condition Technician I & II
Duration: 8 weeks (part-time only)
Clock hours: 160
Prerequisites:
- Present a valid government-issued photo ID
- Must be at least 17 years of age
- Demonstrate English competency including reading, writing, and verbal skills
Program cost:
The program costs $1,120 for tuition only. Expenses for books and supplies must be added to the total.
Website: https://www.hccs.edu/continuing-education/ce-programs/air-conditioning/
Address: 13803 Bissonnet, Houston, TX 77083
Phone: 713-718-8932
The Training Center of Air Conditioning & Heating
The Training Center of Air Conditioning & Heating true-to-life skills during the course. This method of instruction will enable graduates to assume employment in the HVAC industry. Instructors use real-world experiences and encourage active participation. Small class sizes (no more than 18 students) add another element to foster learning. The curriculum covers 16 subjects. These include Introduction to A/C Service, Installation, and Maintenance, Refrigeration Cycle, Basic Electrical, A/C Systems and Applications, Basic Installation, Ductwork Techniques, Motors, Safety, Brazing, Tools, Codes, Licensing and EPA Certification, Professional Conduct and Ethics, Introduction to Commercial Buildings, Heating Equipment, Troubleshooting and Repair Techniques of the Most Common Failures, and Charging Systems and Refrigerant Recovery. Graduates will be prepared to take the EPA certification exam. Classes meet Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm or from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The school admits a new cohort of students three times a year – January, May, and September.
Program overview:
A/C & Heating Program
Duration: 14 weeks
Clock hours: N/A
Prerequisites:
- Present a valid government-issued photo ID
- Must be at least 17 years of age
- Demonstrate English competency including reading, writing and verbal skills
- Submit an application for admission
Program cost:
Payment plans are available upon request.
Website: https://www.thetrainingcenterofairconditioningandheating.com/
Address: 4727 Strack Rd, Houston, TX 77069
Phone: 281-580-4239
Fax: 281-580-6003
Houston School of Carpentry
The HVAC Mechanic program offered by the Houston School of Carpentry teaches students basic technical skills, abilities, and work habits to pursue entry-level employment as a mechanic and installer in the industry. Course topics include Fundamental, Safety, Electrical, System Properties & Measurement, Refrigeration, Gas Heat, Installation, HVAC Control I, and Job Search Techniques. Graduates will be able to use their knowledge and skills to repair, install, service, and maintain heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems, measure temperature in A/C systems, determine airflow requirements, measure relative humidity, clean coils, fans, and registers, and much more. They will be eligible to take the EPA exam and find entry-level employment.
Program overview:
Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Mechanic Certificate
Duration: 6 weeks (full-time) 9 weeks (part-time)
Clock hours: 180
Prerequisites:
- Schedule and attend a campus tour
- Attend a personal interview with an Admissions Representative
- Complete an application form
- Must be at least 17 years of age. Applicants under 18 years must provide written permission from a parent or legal guardian
- Provide proof of secondary education – a high school diploma or GED certificate
- Applicants without a high school diploma must achieve a passing score on the Wonderlic Basic Skills Test (Verbal 200 and Quantitative 210)
Program cost:
The estimated cost of tuition and fees is $14,300. Books and equipment must be added to the cost.
Website: https://www.housoc.org/
Address: 3522 Polk St. Houston, TX 77003
Phone: (713) 225-1955
Email: info@housoc.com
Houston Trade Training
The HVAC program at Houston Trade Training prepares students for a career in the industry. The training in residential and commercial climate control will emphasize service and repair procedures, understanding of electricity, electronic control mechanisms, air conditioning and refrigeration, and heating systems. Areas of study include air conditioning systems, gas furnace design, heat pumps, circuit diagrams, printed circuit boards, testing instruments, power sources, wiring safety, refrigeration and electrical theory, and preparation for EPA certification. Classes meet Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays for 4 weeks. Day and evening schedules are available.
Program overview:
HTT HVAC Class
Duration: 4 weeks
Clock hours: 180
Prerequisites:
- Schedule and attend a campus tour
- Attend a personal interview with an Admissions Representative
- Complete an application form
- Must be 17 years or older
- Have a high school diploma or GED certificate
Program cost:
Tuition for the program is $1,499. Books and equipment must be added to the cost.
Website: http://houstontradetraining.com/home/hvactraining/
Address: 6420 Richmond Ave., Ste. 630, 6th floor, Houston, TX 77057
Phone: 832-932-7897
Lone Star College
The Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVAC&R) Associate of Applied Science degree offered by Lone Star College prepares adults for a technical service career in residential or light commercial/industrial environmental systems. The coursework will highlight the mechanical and electrical/electronic systems involved in heating and cooling systems. It will set the foundation for further studies in the field. There are three levels of certifications contained in the program. The Occupational Entry Certificate is completed in one semester (16 weeks) and prepares students for entry into the air conditioning service profession. The Residential Servicing Certificate forms the second level and seeks to develop a higher skillset, applications of equipment, and preparation for employment as a residential service technician. The third level certificate is the Commercial Servicing Certification and builds on the foundation of the previous two certifications. Students will learn how to service larger and more complex air conditioning and refrigeration equipment used in retail stores, restaurants, schools, hospitals, and other commercial or industrial applications.
Program overview:
HVAC & Refrigeration AAS Degree
Duration: 2 years
Credit hours: 60
Prerequisites:
- Schedule and attend a campus tour
- Attend a personal interview with an Admissions Representative
- Secure admission to Lone Star College
- Apply for admission to the HVAC program
- Must be 18 years or older
- Provide proof of secondary education – a high school diploma or GED certificate
Program cost:
Tuition costs $862 per semester for full-time, resident students. Financial aid is available for the program.
Website: https://www.lonestar.edu/programs-of-study/hvac-aas.htm
Address: 14955 Northwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77040
Phone: 281-260-3500
Excellent Trade Training of HVAC
The HVAC program offered by ETT prepares students for a career in HVAC service and repair. Students will study components, installation of mechanical air conditioning systems, troubleshooting and repair, charging of AC systems, circuit diagrams, heating systems, power sources, printed circuit boards, pressure and temperature charts, copper piping and soldering techniques, and wiring safety. Preparation for EPA certification will also be included in the program.
Program overview:
HVAC & Refrigeration Certification
Duration: 2 months and 5-week schedules
Credit hours: 180
Prerequisites:
- Schedule and attend a campus tour
- Attend a personal interview with an Admissions Representative
- Secure admission to Lone Star College
- Apply for admission to the HVAC program
- Must be 18 years or older
- Provide proof of secondary education – a high school diploma or GED certificate
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $995 not including the cost of materials and supplies.
Website: https://www.etthvactraining.com/
Address: 5005 WEST 34th | 204B, Houston, TX 77057
Phone: (832)531-4096
MIAT College of Technology
MIAT College of Technology aims to provide HVACR students with a thorough knowledge of the science of heating and cooling, safety procedures, and tools and equipment used in the service and installation of HVACR systems. Training will include lectures in the classroom as well as hands-on learning to provide a foundation for the development of advanced skills during their employment in the field. Students will learn tool introduction and application, load calculations, customer relations, refrigeration, sheet metal and fiberglass ductwork, piping and fitting basics, air conditioning, inspection and documentation, heating fundamentals, AC and DC circuits and components, and schematics use and interpretation. Graduates will be prepared to take the EPA certification exam.
Program overview:
HVAC & Refrigeration Certification
Duration: 9 months
Clock hours: 960
Credit hours: 58 Qtr Credits
Prerequisites:
- Attend an interview with an Admissions Representative
- Submit a completed Application for Consideration
- Sign an Enrollment Agreement
- Provide copies of two references
- Pay the application fee of $15
- Provide a copy of high school diploma or high school transcript or recognized equivalency certificate
- Must be 18 years or older prior to the completion of the program
Program cost:
The program cost of $19,603 includes tuition, tools, books, supplies, and application fee.
Website: https://miat.edu/programs/hvacr-technician-program/
Address: 533 Northpark Central Dr, Houston, TX 77073
Phone: 888-547-7047
DOHVAC School LLC.
DoHVAC Trade School’s instructor understands the value of hands-on experience and makes it the primary factor in the HVACR program. Students have the opportunity to manage real-world scenarios in a mock setting in the classroom. They will learn the skills and techniques required for entry-level employment. Areas of study include electricity and electronics, refrigeration, electrical safety, tools and equipment, and air conditioning systems. The program consists of 10 classes and 1 exam session – System Overview, Refrigeration Cycle, Freon Handling and Recovery, Welding Principle, Electrical Control System & Troubleshooting, Air-Handling System & Trouble Shooting, Mini-Split Unit, Compressor and Condenser, Equipment Installation, Electrical Heating, and EPA Exam Review and Exam. The class size is limited to 12 students. Classes meet Tuesday 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm and Saturday from 11:00 am to 2:30 pm.
Program overview:
HVAC & Refrigeration Certificate
Duration: 6 – 8 weeks
Clock hours: N/A
Prerequisites:
- Attend an interview with an Admissions Representative
- Submit a completed Application for Admission
- Must have a government-issued ID
- Must be 18 years or older
Program cost:
Financing options are available upon request.
Website: https://www.dohvac.com/
Address: 5800 Corporate Dr. Ste. C-2, Houston, TX 77036
Phone: (281) 528-4066
Phone: (832) 800-5902 (ESPAÑOL)
Professional Career Training Institute
The Building Maintenance, Air Conditioning and Heating (HVAC), and Refrigeration program offered by Professional Career Training Institute provides students with skills and knowledge to assume entry-level employment in the HVAC industry. The comprehensive program includes theory and hands-on training in the classroom and lab. Students will learn how to diagnose and troubleshoot problems, install and service equipment, and apply electrical principles to building maintenance air conditioning and heating equipment. Graduates will be prepared to take the EPA certification exam to work as building maintenance specialists, HVAC specialists, air conditioning and heating specialists, and equipment serviceman.
Program overview:
Building Maintenance, Air Conditioning and Heating
Duration: 40 weeks
Credit hours: 54
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Attend a personal admissions interview
- Must have a high school diploma or GED certificate
- Must be a citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Have a valid driver’s license or state-issued photo ID and valid social security number
- Make financial arrangements with the financial aid office for FAFSA application
Program cost:
Tuition and fees cost $15,400. Books and supplies cost an additional $100.
Website: https://pcti.edu/building-maintenance-hvac/
Address: 227 W. Airtex Blvd. Houston, TX 77090
Phone: 832-484-9100
Fax: 832-484-9102
Email: applicant@pcti.edu
Florida Career College – Houston Campus
The HVAC Diploma program at Florida Career College offers students the opportunity to prepare for two Pro HVAC certifications. The curriculum includes instruction in the classroom and lab where instructors will focus on hands-on training. Students will learn how to troubleshoot, maintain, install, and repair residential HVAC systems. Course titles include Basic Electricity, Motors, and HVAC Controls, Basic Refrigeration Theory and Application, Air Conditioning, Troubleshooting and Heat Pump Systems, Heating Systems and Boilers, Duct Design, Blueprint Reading and Load Calculation, and Commercial Refrigeration Systems. Other topics include Regulation and Building Automation, Specialized Commercial Equipment and Green Awareness, and Electrical and Mechanical Troubleshooting. Graduates are eligible to apply for two HVAC certifications – EPA Section 608 Certification for Stationary Air Conditioning and Refrigeration and Universal R-410A Safety Training & Certification Program. Convenient day, evening, and weekend classes are available to fit students’ schedules.
Program overview:
HVAC Diploma Program
Duration: 36 instructional weeks
Contact hours: 720
Credit hours: 33
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 17 years of age
- Must be a high school graduate or have GED certification
- Applicants 18 years or older who are not high school graduates may apply as “Ability to Benefit” students
- Submit an official college application
- Submit unofficial transcripts before the first day of class
- Must have a GPA of C or higher for all general education and science courses
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $21,500.
Website: https://www.floridacareercollege.edu/trade-school/texas/houston/
Address: 70 FM 1960, Houston, TX 77090
Phone: (888) 852-7272
Altierus College
Altierus College prepares adults to work as an HVAC technician in commercial and residential settings. The program is HVAC Excellence accredited by the Esco Group – an independent third-party that confirms graduates have the skills to meet HVACR industry standards. Coursework will be delivered both online and on-campus to accommodate students with busy schedules. The on-campus sessions are designed to aid hands-on skills development. Instructors will also answer student questions during the in-person sessions. Course topics include Basic Construction, Basic Air Conditioning, Electricity for HVACR Technicians, Commercial Hydronic Systems, Refrigeration Systems, and Refrigeration Controls and Troubleshooting. In addition to technical skills, students will acquire soft skills for professional development. These include communication, self-management, interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and career-building competencies. The final segment of the program will include extensive preparation for the NCCER exam to receive the recognized NCCER credential.
Program overview:
HVAC Refrigeration Technician
Duration: 9 months
Contact hours: 720
Credit hours: 54.5
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 17 years of age
- Must be a high school graduate or have GED certification
- Submit an official college application
- Must have a valid state photo ID and social security card
Program cost:
The cost of the program is $15,594 for students who complete it in the normal time. The cost includes an HVAC tool bag with basic tools, iPad, shirt, books, test preparation, and fees for the NCCER credential exams.
Website: https://www.altierus.edu/program/trades/hvac-refrigeration-technician
Address: 9700 Bissonnet St., Suite 1400, Houston, TX 77036
Phone: (713) 772-4200
John Moore Tech
John Moore Tech provides hands-on skills training and professional development to those who are new to the field of HVAC as well as those with some training and experience in the field. The program includes theory and hands-on training in air conditioning, electricity and electronics, tools and equipment, equipment installation, service and repairs, and preparation for the EPA certification exam. Students will receive Service Level I Certification of Completion at the end of the program. They are then eligible to apply for the EPA Certification exam and register as an HVAC Technician in Texas. Some graduates may be eligible for recruitment from John Moore Home Services and will receive a complete tool-kit upon hire.
Program overview:
HVAC Training & Certification Course
Duration: 4 months
Contact hours: 180
Prerequisites:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must have an interest in the field
- Must be a high school graduate or have GED certification
- Must have a valid state photo ID and social security card
Program cost:
Financing options are available for all students.
Website: https://johnmoore.tech/
Address: 10005 West Sam Houston Pkwy N, Houston, TX 77064
Phone: 713-730-2525