The state capital of Ohio, Columbus, is a busy city. While its hot, humid continental climate may attract tourists from around the world, it also necessitates that the cooling, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems throughout the city work optimally at all times.
Naturally, there is a high demand for HVAC technicians, which is complemented by several reputable HVAC schools. HVAC training equips students with the technical knowledge regarding installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.
There are many schools to choose from for such courses in Columbus. Hence this article reviews some of the best HVAC schools in Columbus, Ohio, and see what they offer.
How Long is HVAC School?
There are different courses offered for HVAC training. Some are for beginners and are focused on providing full knowledge of all the equipment and processes, while others are advanced courses aimed at polishing the already acquired skills.
An HVAC degree completed in community college or trade schools typically takes two years. The applicant needs to be at least 18 years of age and a US citizen at the time of application. Hands-on training, along with theoretical knowledge, is provided throughout the degree course.
Other than the degree course, there are several short courses to introduce the basics such as electrical work, installation, proper safety measures, etc. These are called job-ready courses and may take up to 15 weeks.
Apprenticeships are acquired after training and may last up from three to five years. This is where technicians get to put their knowledge to use and indulge in practical work in a professional environment. After an apprenticeship, HVAC technicians must be licensed by passing an exam before they can start work.
A professional HVAC technician might also take higher-level courses offered by different institutes. These courses are for those who already have solid know-how of HVAC work and need to further polish their skills or get acquainted with new technologies. Such courses are also short-termed.
Photo credit: cscc.edu
How Much Does HVAC School Cost?
Depending upon the length of course duration, HVAC school costs differ. A two-year degree where the students get theoretical and practical knowledge usually costs around $4,868 per year for in-state students and $8,614 per year for out-of-state students. The degree acquaints the enrolled with the machines and practical demonstration as well as hands-on training required for the profession.
Six to 12 months of HVAC school costs between $1,200 and $15,000. The huge difference in the costs is related to the difference in the level of training. Higher-end training of professionals involves the use of more sophisticated machinery and hence costs more. A basic course for introductory knowledge costs much less.
Another factor that governs the total cost is the duration of the course and whether it is taught online or in person. Short courses that last for one to two months are much cheaper than those extending to more than six months. Moreover, online training with recorded lectures and no on-campus training costs less than in-person training given on campus that also allows direct communication between students and teachers.
Apprenticeships of three to five years cost between $500 and $2000. The price difference here is mainly related to the company or school where you complete your apprenticeship. More renowned institutes have a heftier fee structure in this regard.
Quick Take - Best HVAC Schools in Columbus, Ohio
Just looking for the top 3 schools in your area? Here are the best HVAC schools in Columbus, Ohio:
List of the Top HVAC Schools in Columbus, Ohio
Columbus, Ohio, has great job prospects for HVAC technicians owing to the high demand for skilled technicians. To meet the demand, many schools provide HVAC training in the city. Here’s a detailed overview of some of the best HVAC schools in the state capital of Ohio.
Address: 550 East Spring St. Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-287-5353
List of Programs:
- Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree
Certifications
- HVAC Controls Certificate
- High-Pressure Boiler License Training Program Certificate
- HVAC Apprenticeship Readiness Certificate
- Large Commercial Certificate
- Residential/Light Commercial Certificate
- HVAC Test and Balance Certificate
Our Review of the Program
Located at the heart of the city, Columbus State Community College provides an Associate Degree and some different certifications for aspiring HVAC professionals. The Associate's Degree is a four-semester program structured to provide students with detailed learning and hands-on experience.
Throughout the course, the students are not only taught about the systems, controls, and mechanisms but are also equipped with skills that are crucial for excelling in the field like communications and entrepreneurship. Along with that, students learn how to design and create visual representations of systems at commercial and industrial levels.
The 65-credit-hour course does not have any certification requirements for enrollment and is open to all US citizens. In addition to the Associate's degree, six certifications of varying duration in the subfields are available. These are more focused and align with a specific area of the profession.
Graduates of the State Community College find jobs with large scale contractors working for industrial, commercial, and residential projects as well as with reputable companies dealing in equipment supply and distributions. Some have also found jobs with R&D departments for the design of more efficient systems.
In conclusion, the programs at the CSCC equip their students with all the necessary knowledge and training that will help them start a successful HVAC career on their own as well as with other contractors and companies.
Address: 4151 Executive Parkway, Suite 120 Westerville, OH 43081
Phone: 614-882-2551
List of Programs:
- The Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC) training program
Our Review of the Program
At Fortis, training for different careers is provided to equip individuals with the necessary skills. From medical services to HVAC training, several courses have been preparing top-quality professionals at the college. The HVAC training program, too, is quite detailed and is meant for those who are beginning their career as HVAC technicians.
Modern technology is used to teach students to carry out computerized diagnostics in the most complex systems. During the course, the enrolled students are familiarized with the basic machinery, processes, and controls that govern the various HVAC systems. As the course progresses, they are introduced to more advanced systems and controls.
By the end of the program, graduates can easily diagnose problems in large and complex systems, even the ones built on modern standards. They can also efficiently install HVAC systems and carry out maintenance. Heat pumps, commercial refrigerators, gas heaters, and air conditioners are some of the appliances they will be able to work with. Selection, development, operation, and testing of heating, cooling, and ventilation systems are easily doable for graduates.
Graduates find jobs as entry-level technicians at residential as well as commercial levels. They are well-equipped to find work with firms and contractors or start practice on their own.
Address: 4300 Amalgamated Place Groveport, OH 43125
Phone: 614-836-4530
List of Programs:
- HVAC training
Certifications
- Level-1 - National Center for Construction Education & Research
- Level-2 - National Center for Construction Education & Research
- Level-3 - National Center for Construction Education & Research
- Level-4 - National Center for Construction Education & Research
- EPA-608 Universal
- R410A High-Pressure Refrigeration
- HVAC Excellence Employment Ready Heat Pump
- RSES Hydrocarbon Refrigerant
- NATE Certifications
- OSHA 10-Hour - Construction Industry
- National Career Readiness - ACT
Our Review of the Program
Offering one full-time course and quite some certifications, Eastland-Fairfield School is yet another technical training center that you can consider. The full-time HVAC training is a nine-month-long course expanded over 900 credit hours. It combines classroom, laboratory, and practical fieldwork, giving the enrolled students a full package. For admissions, individuals aged 18 or older having a High School Diploma or GED can apply.
During the course, detailed knowledge covering all aspects of HVAC needed for beginners is provided. This involves shop mathematics, blueprints evaluation, electricity troubleshooting, VFD, ICM, & ECM Systems, digital controls, and piping systems, to name a few. Besides, special focus is given to employability skills so that graduates can find jobs easily.
The best part about this training program and the certifications is that students do not need to invest in any tools or equipment themselves during the learning program. Rather, they are provided with the necessary tools for every class and laboratory session by the school.
Other than the training program, students can also benefit from industry-recognized certifications. These certifications are focused on different sub-fields and provide in-depth training in the concerned area. The school has a good job turnout, both individually as entrepreneurs or as employees with various firms, companies, and contractors.
Address: 546 Jack Gibbs Blvd. Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-365-6681 Ext. 76130
List of Programs:
- Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Training
Our Review of the Program
This city school provides a two-year program for HVAC training. Each year focuses on different aspects of skilled trade. During the first year, the students are acquainted with the basics of HVAC training through course and lab work. The knowledge progresses to become more technical during the second year.
The first year is all about hands-on training where the students are put to the test what they have learned in classroom lectures. The second-year combines practical work that professionals in the field perform, like installation, troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance. Moreover, during the second year, students learn the principles of refrigeration to become EPA-certified at the end of the program.
This course is perfect for those who prefer combined lab work, followed by the judgment of their skills in a professional environment. Fundamentals of HVAC systems, diagrams, wiring, welding, and thermostat basics are taught to the enrolled students. They also learn about electricity and plumbing principles.
A great thing about this course is that students have already acquire EPA Refrigerant, NCCER, OSHA 10 Hour, and Forklift Operator certifications by the end. This gives them an edge in the job market. At the end of their course, graduates find suitable jobs at various HVAC firms and workshops as well as independent consultants.
Address: 308 Martinsburg Road, Mount Vernon, OH 43050
Phone: 740-393-2933
List of Programs:
- HVACR Technician program
Our Review of the Program
Like the rest of the programs on the list, this one is also designed to prepare learners for a career in HVAC. Hence, it teaches not only the theory and practical aspects of HVAC but also how to develop a successful career in the trade. The course is about nine months long and has 685 knowledge-filled credit hours.
Through this course, students start to grasp the basics of Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration, which later translates into well-developed skills at the end of the program. One of the strong points about the course is that it is all performance-based and does not require any pre-requisite course or certification at the time of enrollment. However, a high school transcript or a GED, along with a skill assessment test, is required to secure a position at the school.
Students can start their session after passing an interview with the coordinator. The course is filled with valuable knowledge like principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanism, heat transfer, etc., that forms a very solid learning base. Alongside, practical work builds the skills necessary for technicians to excel in their job.
Graduates can find work as an HVAC/R installer, repairer, and mechanic, or they might even open up their own business. They are taught well enough to work with any system at commercial, industrial, or residential levels. To make things even more favorable for students, financial aid is provided for those who qualify based on the school’s requirements.
HVAC Schools in Columbus, Ohio Comparison Table
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What Makes Columbus, Ohio a Great Place to Start an HVAC Career?
Columbus, Ohio, can make for a very favorable work environment for HVAC technicians. Many factors point towards a successful career for technicians, provided they are qualified and committed to the job. Let’s take a look at some of these factors that make Columbus a great place to start an HVAC career.
High Demand For HVAC Technicians
We know that the continental weather of Columbus stays humid around the year. The demand for both heating and cooling systems is high, along with good ventilation. When strong winds blow, heating systems need to act to maintain a comfortable living environment indoors. Similarly, when it gets hot, cooling systems need to come into play. Hence, it is a constant switch between both. However, good ventilation is crucial at all times.
Such climatic conditions make the need for HVAC systems crucial in Columbus. As a result, technicians for their installation, repair, and maintenance are in demand throughout the year too. Therefore, the area makes for a very suitable work environment for HVAC technicians because it provides a constant supply of work.
Photo credit: thecrazytourist.com
Continuous Development
Because Columbus is a state capital and a major attraction for tourists, it undergoes constant developments. High rise buildings, apartments, recreational facilities, and shopping centers are built at a rapid pace. The development is accompanied by installing and maintaining cooling, heating, and ventilation systems and appliances. Hence, it complements the demand for HVAC technicians. Continuous development is very favorable for the HVAC skill trade.
Evolving Standards and Regulations
Time and again, the regulations for HVAC systems and appliances updates to make them more climate and living environment-friendly. This means that the systems are being constantly updated to include newer safety standards and precautions. HVAC technicians are required to recognize systems that follow the updated standards and also install them.
Moreover, most of these systems work on sophisticated technology that requires the mind of a professional and skilled technician to be understood and repaired in case of any problems.
Benefits
There are many benefits available for HVAC technicians in Columbus, Ohio. Commonly, these include fuel discount, life, and disability insurances, health, dental, and vision insurances, paid time off, a fixed schedule, and free flu shots. Combined, these benefits make for a considerably valuable package that facilitates the hardworking technicians.
Photo credit: thecrazytourist.com
Job Outlook and Salary For HVAC Techs in Columbus, Ohio
The job and salary outlooks vary for HVAC technicians, depending upon their skill levels. Usually, the levels are divided into three; entry, mid, and master levels. The understanding of the systems progresses with each level, and so does the experience. Let’s take a look at the prospect for each of these levels below.
Entry Level
Entry-level technicians have a maximum experience of one year. They are usually fresh out of training school and have a staunch knowledge of the basic working principles. Their demand is quite high, especially because they are familiar with the latest systems. Entry-level technicians can earn up to $20.08 per hour on average.
Mid-Level
Those with experience expanding to three to five years are generally considered to be mid-level technicians. They have considerable experience in installation and maintenance. Usually, mid-level technicians are sought for the installation of appliances and their regular maintenance. With the growing need for HVAC systems, their demand is quite high. On average, they earn up to $22.35 per hour in Columbus, Ohio.
Master-Level
Technicians who have been in the business for around six to nine years are considered senior or master-level technicians. They have the most experience and are consulted for advice when building designs are being finalized. The demand for master-level technicians has been accelerated by the rapid development in Columbus, Ohio. They earn an average of $24.49 or above per hour.
Photo credit: technoair.com
Conclusion
With the changing climate and rapid construction, the need for HVAC technicians is on the rise. This poses very favorable conditions for aspiring HVAC technicians. To excel in the profession, quality training, along with theoretical knowledge, is required. There are many schools in Columbus serving the purpose. Those considering to take admissions must see if the course duration and curriculum matches their interest and pick a school wisely.
Nearby HVAC Schools
Here are some HVAC schools in nearby states:
