We’ve already told you about the benefits of becoming an HVAC technician in Illinois. They include:
- Great compensation.
- No Illinois HVAC license is needed.
- Earn while you learn.
- Low cost of entry.
- Your work is needed.
- Not a “sit behind a desk” job.
As noted above, you don’t need a license to become an HVAC tech in Illinois, and you don’t need to spend a fortune educating yourself. But there are certain requirements.
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Be a high school graduate or have a GED equivalent.
- Prepare for the EPA Section 608 certification exams, either by:
- Becoming an apprentice/entry-level worker for an HVAC business and receiving on-the-job training. These apprenticeships usually are for two years.
- Attending a community college or an HVAC technical institute (generally for two years) or trade school (usually six to nine months).
- Earn EPA Section 608 certification by passing the exam from an approved organization. The exam is required for anyone handling certain controlled refrigerants found in AC systems. There are different certification levels:
- Type I for servicing small appliances with up to five pounds of refrigerant.
- Type II for servicing high-pressure units that contain five pounds or more of refrigerant. This includes most residential and small commercial systems.
- Type III for servicing or disposing of low-pressure appliances.
- Universal for all three.
- Though not required, it is also strongly suggested that you receive certification from the North American Technician Excellence (NATE). Its certification is a more comprehensive certification than the EPA certification. The four types of NATE certification include:
- Ready-to-Work Certificate: An entry-level exam available online focusing on essential job skills.
- HVAC Support Technician: A certificate for technicians working toward advancing within the profession.
- Core and Specialty Test: A certificate for technicians with at least two years of experience.
- Senior Level Efficiency Analyst: A certificate for HVAC technicians seeking the highest NATE designation. Applicants must hold at least two NATE certifications before taking the exam.
- Have a valid driver’s license. Many jobs require no major or frequent traffic violations or DUI citations in the previous five years.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric to Become an HVAC Technician
If you are interested in working in the HVAC industry as an HVAC technician, Ravinia Plumbing is interested in talking with you. We offer interesting work, excellent compensation, and opportunities for advancement. We’ve been in business since 1928, and we’ve made a name for ourselves as one of the most trusted and reliable plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical companies in Chicagoland. Visit Ravinia Plumbing today to learn more, or check out our careers page to view our current openings.
