Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems, better known as HVAC, are an indispensable part of our lifestyle. With the severe effects of global warming, the entire world is facing major climatic changes. Summers are getting hotter, and winters are getting colder. In order to bear the extremities of both climatic conditions, we install HVAC systems in our homes to keep ourselves comfortable.
The field of HVAC is increasingly becoming a popular career choice as more and more people are relying on these systems to maintain the temperatures of their homes and workplaces within a comfortable range. Like every other device, these appliances also require regular maintenance and service to keep them in their top shape. This is the job of HVAC technicians. It is their duty to install, repair, diagnose, and maintain our systems in a good running state.
New York is a state that is known for its continental climate. Being on the edge of a continent that is hot in summer and cold in winter, it has a rather unstable climate. You’ll experience bad weather amongst clear sunny days. Living in such conditions requires the installation of a good HVAC system, which in turn calls for the regular services of an HVAC technician.
The demand for HVAC technicians in New York is constantly on the rise. To fulfill this demand, different educational institutions all over the state offer extensive HVAC programs to help their students build a successful career for themselves. Here is a detailed overview of some of the best HVAC schools in New York.
Requirements to Be an HVAC Technician in New York
You might think that as an Empire State, there would be tough requirements for aspirants who want to be HVAC technicians in New York. It might come as a surprise that the state clears all HVAC aspirants from state licensing. However, certifications and associate degrees are required to secure employment as an HVAC technician.
Since there are no state-wise licenses available, HVAC workers are required to meet licensing or certification requirements of the city they want to pursue their career in. So it’s best to check with the local authorities. For example, NYC does not require its HVAC technicians to have a license, while Buffalo requires its heating contractors to obtain one.
Also, there are no standardized qualifications for city-level credentials. The general procedure for obtaining one is nearly the same. You can earn your diploma or associate degree by enrolling in an HVAC program offered by a trade school or a technical college. After completing the program, you can apply for an EPA certification exam.
EPA 608 certifications are required by law for working with refrigerants. These verify a person’s capability to successfully handle Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration systems through written exam and practical performance. The four types of EPA 608 certifications include:
- Type I: This is the easiest certification to get and allows you to service small appliances.
- Type II: This certification gives you more flexibility. With this, you can service and dispose of high-pressure appliances.
- Type III: This allows you to service and dispose of low-pressure appliances.
- Universal License: This certification covers all three mentioned above so you can deal with all types of systems and refrigerants. It does not expire, so it is very useful over the course of your career.
Salary and Job Outlook in New York
HVAC technicians and installers who work in New York have a clear advantage. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the HVAC workers employed nationwide to earn an average of $51,420. But when you look at the HVAC workers in New York, the average annual salary jumps to $59,660. This is 14% higher than the national HVAC average.
In New York, an experienced HVAC employee can earn $24 per hour while a beginner can earn over $15. The average salary per hour is $26.25, which is marginally higher than the national average of $19.10 per hour.
New York boasts the perfect climate for HVAC systems. During summer, it gets hot and muggy, while in winter, it is freezing cold. Moving between these extremes requires regular heating, cooling, and dehumidification, which effectively puts HVAC systems to test. In turn, this requires regular service and maintenance to work effectively.
The demanding conditions have greatly increased the number of job openings for HVAC workers in the past decade. The New York State Labor Department has reported that an almost 27% rise is anticipated in the demand of technicians statewide. The more recent statistics collected by the Bureau of Labor Statics (BLS) states a 13% boom between 2018 and 2028. This translates to the availability of impressive 46,300 HVAC jobs annually.
Quick Take - Best HVAC Schools in New York
Just looking for the top three schools in your area? Here are the best HVAC schools in New York:
List of the Best HVAC Schools in New York
The state of New York features excellent working conditions for HVAC technicians. The ever-going construction, as well as the pressing working conditions, gives rise to new job openings in the field. If you are a resident of New Jersey, Buffalo, Long Island, NYC, or any other city of New York State and are aspiring to become an employee in the HVAC industry, now is the right time to start your career. Here is an overview of some of the best HVAC schools in New York.
Best Overall:
Apex Technical School
Address: 24-02 Queens Plaza, South Long Island City, New York 11101
Phone: 1-212-645-3300
List of Programs:
- Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Appliance/Control Program
Our Review of the Program
Apex Technical School is a private adult vocational educational institution in New York. It has been providing quality education for over 50 years. It provides its students with the necessary technical training that enables them to enter the workforce with full confidence.
The HVAC program offers educates and trains the students to work with residential and commercial HVAC installations. It consists of 450 credit hours of in-class theoretical learning and 450 credit hours of hands-on training. It takes about seven months for most students to complete this program. You can enroll in it as a full-time or part-time student. You can even apply for an on-campus job to facilitate your education.
The coursework includes domestic refrigeration/air conditioning, commercial air conditioning, commercial refrigeration, and major home appliances. Graduates who complete this program can evaluate and troubleshoot the performance of refrigerators, air conditioning, and heating appliances. They are also ready to take the EPA 608 Certification Exam.
Apex is very dedicated to providing its students with first-hand knowledge of the field. The instructors here are professionals, and students receive practical demonstrations in real shops. As they say themselves, “Career training so cool, you’ll get goosebumps.”
Address: 1000 East Henrietta Road, Rochester, New York 14623
Phone: 1-585-292-2000
List of Programs:
- Air Conditioning Technology: Heating and Ventilation Associate Applied Sciences Degree Program.
Our Review of the Program
Monroe Community College is a public institution located in Rochester, New York. It offers a number of vocational training programs in which students can earn associate degrees. They can either start working as entry-level employees or can continue their education by enrolling in a subsequent university or college.
The campus is almost fully enclosed. The best thing about the campus is that all 13 of its buildings are connected by skyway to keep the students and faculty members safe from external elements.
The HVAC program offered by this school is an Associate Applied Sciences Degree Career program. It is a great option for students looking to start their career in this field as well as for professionals who are already working in it. The coursework consists of 61 to 67 credits hours with special emphasis on hands-on practical training.
The curriculum includes basic physics, AC fundamentals, electrical codes, refrigeration principles, and heating systems. It emphasizes the practical applications of HVAC systems. Students get to work in state-of-the-art labs designed by Siemens Energy Management and learn by working side by side with experts.
Address: 80 Vandenburgh Ave, Troy, New York 12180
Phone: 1-518-629-4822
List of Programs:
- Heating/Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Technical Services Degree Program.
Our Review of the Program
Hudson Valley Community College is a public community college. Established in 1953, the reputable school has been departing knowledge for over 60 years. It is one of the 30 community colleges that are affiliated with the State University of New York.
Its campus is spread over 120 acres with a total of 21 buildings. The institute offers Associate Degrees in Arts, Science, Applied Science, and Occupational Studies. It also offers a number of certificate programs.
The Heating/Air Conditioning/Refrigeration Technical Services degree program HVCC offers is an Associate Degree in Occupational Studies. Students who want to enroll in this program are required to complete a sufficient amount of math coursework. It consists of 63 credit hours, and most students complete it in two years.
This program prepares you to immediately start working as an HVAC/R technician. It imparts you with the knowledge and skills to install and service these systems. The course outline includes heat transfer systems, refrigeration theory, electrical theory, and their applications. Along with the in-class learning sessions, you get nine hours of hands-on training per week. It surely is a unique educational experience.
Address: 6205 Main Street, Williamsville, New York 14221
Phone: 1-716-851-1322
List of Programs:
- Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology Certificate Program
Our Review of the Program
Erie Community College is a part of the 64 campuses State University of New York system. It has three campuses that are currently operating in New York. These include North Campus in Williamsville, City Campus in Buffalo, and South Campus in Orchard Park. It offers nearly 100 associate degree and certificate programs to facilitate its students. It is known for its flexible, accessible, and affordable educational programs.
The certificate program in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration technology is available at the North Campus. It is designed to prepare the applicants for using their knowledge and skills for installation, maintenance, service, and repair of HVAC equipment.
The curriculum spans over 31 credit hours and takes two years for most students to complete. The students learn about system operations, diagnostic techniques, electricity, principles of mechanics, and usage of testing equipment in relation to the heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. The graduates who pass out from this program are able to take the EPA regulation certification exam, which allows them to interact with refrigerants as well.
Address: North Campus, 1101 Sherman Drive, Utica, New York 13501
Phone: 1-316-339-3470
List of Programs:
- Heating and Air Conditioning Certificate Program
- Associate of Occupational Science Degree in Air Conditioning Technology
Our Review of the Program
Mohawk Valley Community College is a public institution situated in Utica, New York. It has an open admissions policy and offers around 21 certificate programs in various fields. The highest qualification offered here is an associate degree.
The undergraduate heating and air conditioning certificate this school offers to enable its students to work on oil and gas heating systems, split air conditioners, and commercial refrigeration systems. The students undergo rigorous training to learn to troubleshoot and repair these systems.
The total number of program credits is 34. It spans over a time period of nine months. Since the school employs a semester-based academic year, this program is also distributed in two semesters. It prepares the students to stay safe, communicate effectively, and apply basic electrical concepts to resolve the HVAC-R systems, all while training them to be competitive HVAC-R technicians.
Students who pass out from this program have the option of applying for the Associate of Occupational Science in Air Conditioning Technology – Refrigeration Option.
Address: Michael J. Grant Campus, Crooked Hill Road, Caumsett Hall, Brentwood, New York 11717
Phone: 1-631-851-6750
List of Programs:
- Heating, Ventilation, AC, and Refrigeration Technology Associate Applied Sciences Degree Program.
- Heating, Ventilation, AC, and Refrigeration Technology Certificate Program.
Our Review of the Program
Suffolk County Community College is the biggest institution in the State University of New York system. It has three campuses across Long Island. These are Seldom, Brentwood and Riverhead. It offers around 21 different certificates and degree programs to educate its students to become successful professionals in their respective fields.
The HVAC programs offered by this institute are conducted at Michael J. Grant campus. It offers two Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration programs of varying durations. The associate degree program requires 64 credit hours of coursework while the certificate program calls for 34 credit hours.
Both programs are designed to accommodate the varying needs of their students. The associate degree program is more suitable for beginners who are just starting out in the field. The curriculum revolves around providing them well-rounded education and preparing them to face the ever-changing circumstances of their field. The shorter certificate program is targeted at professionals who are already working in the field but want to enhance their skills or change their field.
Both programs follow a similar curriculum. It includes electricity for HVAC-R, control systems, diagnostics and servicing, technical writing, and interpersonal communication. The students are also provided with hands-on training through internships and intensive laboratory sessions.
Address: 53 Pendell Road, Poughkeepsie, New York 12601
Phone: 1-845-790-3610
List of Programs:
- Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (ACR) Technology Certificate Program.
Our Review of the Program
Dutchess Community College is a State University of New York campus situated in Poughkeepsie. It stands to provide affordable yet quality post-secondary education to its students. With a number of certificate and degree programs, this school offers comprehensive educational experiences to all its students regardless of their experience in the field.
It is the only community college in Dutchess County. Since it is located on a hill above Poughkeepsie town, the campus has a large suburban setting.
The ACR Technology Certificate Program offered by this school requires you to complete a total of 24 credit hours. It educates the students on the installation and service of residential air conditioning systems as well as some light commercial refrigeration systems. After completing this program, they can safely recover and recycle the refrigerants while recognizing and utilizing the appropriate tools. They also learn to test various equipment and instruments to troubleshoot and generate the desired results.
For successful ACR education, it is recommended that aspiring individuals complete some basic high school courses related to the field. These include electricity, machine shop, blueprint reading, metalworking, and plumbing.
Address: 10 Upper College Drive, Alfred, NY 14802
Phone: 1-800-425-3733
List of Programs:
- Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Associate Occupational Sciences Degree
Our Review of the Program
Alfred State College, formerly known as the Alfred School of Technology, is a public college in Alfred, New York. It is a part of the State University of New York system. It offers a number of educational programs to facilitate its students. These include baccalaureate degrees in 30 areas, associate degrees in 50 areas, and numerous certificates.
The campus is situated in the scenic southern tier of Western New York. This school promises a unique educational environment that will help you grow outside the classrooms you study in.
The HVAC Associate Degree Program offered by this institution follows a typical four-semester outline. The comprehensive curriculum covers every phase of the field and teaches you about installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of residential and commercial HVAC setups. Along with the hands-on training about air conditioning and heat pump technology, the coursework also includes forced air, oil and gas burner systems, and hot water and steam heating.
Alfred State College has an amazing ten-year record of 99% of its graduates securing employment and continuing education rate. It is striving hard to fulfill the demand and supply gap of many of its in-demand majors where more employers are lining up to hire than the passing out graduates.
Address: 15 Henning Road, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866
Phone: 1-518-581-3600
List of Programs:
- Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration program
Our Review of the Program
Career and Technical Education is a division of Washington-Saratoga-Warren-Hamilton-Essex BOCES. It combines comprehensive academic programs with real hands-on practice. It has paved numerous different career paths for its students to follow and become successful professionals.
It has two educational centers currently functional in Saratoga Springs and Hudson Valley. They strongly believe that freedom is a result of hard work, and it all begins when you have a solid career foundation. CTE strives hard to provide its students with the base they need to build a successful career for themselves.
Their HVAC-R program is specially crafted according to the geographical conditions, needs, and industry trends of this area. It is a two-year program that will train you in reading blueprints, principles, and practices of piping, commercial refrigeration, and air condition systems. There is a special emphasis on safety as well as the EPA regulations and requirements. It also covers job planning and estimating, professionalism, customer service, and ethics.
A special inclusion is the Home Performance by the Energy Star program. In this section, the students are taught how different installations in housework together as a system.
HVAC Schools in New York Comparison Table
The HVAC industry in New York is progressing by leaps and bounds. The unstable climate, new constructions, and maintenance of old systems are top contributors to its expansion. If you are also planning to join forces with this field, you will need proper training to start working as an HVAC employee. Here is a comparison overview of some of the best HVAC schools in New York.
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Conclusion
A career in HVAC promises a successful future in New York. If you decide to become an HVAC worker here, you will have a lot of variety to work with. Now is a good time to pave your career path in this industry. From NYC’s majestic skyscrapers to the suburban rural areas, wherever you go, your skills will be in demand.
Employment opportunities in New York State are certainly increasing. But to secure the best jobs, you need the right qualifications under your name. And for that, you need to enroll in an accredited HVAC school. Above, we have listed some of the best HVAC schools IN New York. We suggest you carefully consider their programs and campus environment to figure out the right one for you. After all, a strong base is the root of a successful career.
Nearby HVAC Schools
Here are some HVAC schools in nearby states:
