HVAC Schools in New York City, NY

HVAC technicians work in residential and commercial settings maintaining, installing, and repairing indoor heating, cooling, and ventilation technology. The profession offers diverse job opportunities, job security, and excellent salaries for technicians. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for HVAC technicians will be 13% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median pay was $48,730 in 2019, which reflects comparatively high earnings.

A steady rise in new technology in part accounts for a positive job outlook. Apart from replacing outdated systems that are less efficient, technicians will be tasked with the installation and maintenance of new systems. HVAC programs prepare adults for entry-level employment. There are no standardized programs for HVAC technicians in New York, so the curriculum varies from one school to another. HVAC technicians do not need a license to operate in the state.

The Refrigeration Institute

Students enrolled in the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning program at The Refrigeration Institute will receive hands-on experience to develop the skills to do a job correctly. The in-depth and comprehensive courses are taught by experienced faculty who are committed to students’ success. TRI offers flexible class schedules, payment plans, and lifetime career placement assistance. Morning and evening schedules are available. Morning classes meet Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. The evening classes meet from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Program overview:
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Duration: 7 months
Contact hours: 450 hours

Courses:
Refrigeration & Systems Operation, Refrigeration Electrical, Charging & Recovery, Troubleshooting & Controls

Prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • A completed application for admission

Program cost:
Contact the school for a current schedule of classes and tuition.

Website: https://www.therefrigerationinstitute.com/
Address: 45 Eighth Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10018
Phone: 1-212-244-2588
Email: fstalty@aol.com

Apex Technical School

Apex Technical School teaches Refrigeration students the skills to repair and maintain domestic and commercial air conditioning and refrigeration systems, electrical controls, major home appliances, and gas-fired heating systems. Students will spend half the allocated time in the classroom and the final half will cover hands-on training for a fluid transition to the workplace. Graduates will be prepared to troubleshoot and evaluate the function of refrigerators, air conditioning, and appliance equipment. They will also be able to take the EPA Type 608 certification exam. Full-time and part-time schedules are available.

Program overview:
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Appliance Controls
Duration: 6 months
Contact hours: 900 hours

Courses:
Major Home Appliances, Basic Refrigeration/Air Conditioning, Domestic Refrigeration/ Air Conditioning, Commercial Refrigeration, Commercial Air Conditioning, Advanced Commercial Refrigeration/ Air Conditioning

Prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or GED or obtain a satisfactory score on a standardized exam
  • Must be at least 17 years. Applicants under 18 must obtain parental consent
  • Attend an interview with an Admissions Representative

Program cost:
The estimated cost of tuition and fees is $18,295. Books and supplies are not included in the cost.

Website: https://apexschool.com/
Address: 24-02 Queens Plaza South, Long Island City, NY 11101
Phone: (212) 645-3300

Electrical & HVAC/R Training Center

Students enrolled in the HVAC/R program at Electrical & HVAC/R Training Center must complete all four sections of the curriculum. The Center adheres to the U.S. Department of Education, the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET), and the New York State Department of Education Bureau of Proprietary School Supervision (BPSS) guidelines. All instructors are licensed by the New York State Education Department.

Program overview:
HVAC/R Program
Contact hours: 600 hours

Courses:
Control Circuit and Motor Troubleshooting, Introduction to Heating, Troubleshooting Oil Heating, Intro to HVAC/R, Intro to Air Distribution Systems, Troubleshooting Cooling, Refrigerants and Oils, Troubleshooting Gas Heating, Troubleshooting Oil Heating

Prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or GED showing graduation date
  • Must be at least 18 years old. Applicants 17 years of age may apply if the academic requirements are met and attends an interview with a parent or guardian
  • Schedule a school tour and interview with an Admissions Representative
  • Must have a valid Class D driver’s license
  • Must submit a resume at the time of enrollment
  • Must be able to speak, read, and write fluently in English

Program cost:
The total program cost is $12,950. It includes tuition, materials and supplies, and registration fee.

Website: https://www.electricaltrainingcenter.edu/
Address: 65 Elm Street, Copiague, NY 11726
Phone: (631) 226-8021
Email: info@electricaltrainingcenter.edu

New York City College of Technology

The Environmental Control Technology program at New York City College of Technology leads to an Associate in Applied Science. The curriculum will include theory, design, and practical courses to prepare students for immediate employment after graduation and continued professional growth. Graduates will be able to design heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems, operate and manage the environment systems of commercial, institutional, and residential facilities, and install, maintain, and repair heating and air conditioning systems.

Program overview:
AAS Environmental Control Technology
Duration: 2 years
Credit hours: 60

Courses:
Principles of Air Conditioning I, Air Conditioning Systems Lab I, HVAC Systems Graphics, Combustion Processes and Equipment, Heating Systems Lab, Hydronic Systems Design, Fire Protection, Plumbing and Electrical Systems for Buildings, Refrigeration Lab I, Principles of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning Systems Design, Refrigeration Lab II, Principles of HVAC Systems Controls, Advanced Air Conditioning Systems Design, Elective

Prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or GED with a minimum of a 70 average or a minimum score of 2700 on the GED/HSE
  • Submit a completed application online

Program cost:
Tuition costs $3,465 per semester for full-time matriculated students. Financial aid is available for eligible students.

Website: http://www.citytech.cuny.edu/
Address: 186 Jay Street, Voorhees 437 (V-437), Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: 718-260-5160
Email: environcontrol@citytech.cuny.edu

Suffolk County Community College

The Associate in Applied Science in HVACR Technology degree prepares students for employment HVACR technician. Theory and practical instruction will provide a solid foundation in fabrication and joining techniques, basic refrigeration, commercial refrigeration, HVACR controls, and design of HVACR systems. Hands-on instruction will be conducted through intensive lab sessions and internships at various facilities. The program is offered on a full-time basis. Some courses may only be available in the day, evening, or weekend.

Program overview:
Heating, Ventilation, AC, and Refrigeration
Duration: 2 years
Credit hours: 64

Courses:
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems, Electricity for HVAC/R, Heating Systems, HVAC/R Control Systems, HVAC/R Diagnostics and Servicing, HVAC/R Commercial Systems, HVAC/R System Design, HVAC/R Internship

Prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or GED – official transcript must be submitted directly from the school to the registrar
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Take and pass an admission test
  • Attend an interview with a counselor
  • Submit a completed application by the stipulated deadline

Program cost:
Tuition costs $5,470 for full-time students per year. Books and supplies cost an additional $1,500.

Website: https://www.sunysuffolk.edu/index.jsp
Address: Crooked Hill Road, Caumsett Hall, Brentwood, NY 11717
Phone: (631) 851-6750
Email: spagnoe@sunysuffolk.edu

How Much Does an HVAC School Cost in NYC? 

The average cost of completing an HVAC program in New York City is $12,800 for comprehensive training that includes at least 600 hours of theory and practical instruction.  

How Long Is HVAC Training in NYC? 

Diploma programs comprising of 600 to 900 instructional hours may be completed in 7 to 9 months. An associate degree program requires a time commitment of 24 months.  

How Do I Get HVAC Certified in New York?  

Section 608 of the Federal Clean Air Act requires all “technicians who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of appliances containing regulated refrigerants, be certified. 

Technicians are required to pass an EPA-approved test to earn Section 608 Technician Certification. Tests must be administered by an EPA-approved certifying organization. Section 608 Technician Certification credentials do not expire.  

The EPA 608 Certification Exam covers four sections: Core, and sections I, II, and III. You must obtain an passing score of 72% on all sections to pass the exam. Universal Certification will be awarded after you pass all 4 sections. It is essential to obtain this certification for employment in the field of HVAC technology where you will be required to purchase refrigerant, equipment charged with Refrigerant, and tools.   

How Much Does an HVAC Technician Make In NYC? 

The annual mean wage for experienced HVAC Technicians in New York City is $69,540 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Entry level HVAC technicians earn an average wage of $52,340 annually.  

How Do I Become an HVAC Technician in New York?  

HVAC training is a first step to becoming an HVAC technician in New York. The programs offered at technical colleges are not lengthy but there’s a lot to learn. You should expect that you’ll continue learning even after you graduate. An apprenticeship is a feasible alternative to a formal program. It will give you the opportunity to learn by doing and there is generally no cost attached.  

Once you’ve completed training in the basics, you’ll need to apply for the EPA license – required by the Federal government for all technicians handling units that contain refrigerant.  

You may also apply for the NATE certificate which is an optional New York HVAC license available for experienced technicians. NATE technicians an average of 25 percent more per year than unlicensed technicians. 

New York City technicians may need to get a Home Improvement Contractor license depending on their duties.   

Do I Need A Permit For HVAC in NYC?  

There are no licensing requirements for HVAC technicians within the state.