HVAC Certifications in Illinois

The state of Illinois requires HVAC professionals to obtain certifications from recognized organizations. Here are the certifications available in Illinois:

EPA Certifications

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers HVAC certifications for technicians who work with refrigerants. There are four levels of EPA certification:

• Type I: for servicing small appliances
• Type II: for servicing or disposing of high to very-high pressure appliances
• Type III: for servicing low-pressure appliances
• Universal: covering all three types

All applicants must pass the EPA's core section, which covers knowledge on ozone depletion, the Clean Air Act, the Montreal Protocol, and Section 608 regulations. EPA certifications do not expire.

NATE License Certifications

The North American Technical Excellence (NATE) offers comprehensive license certifications for HVAC professionals. There are four types of NATE certifications:

• Ready-to-Work Certificate: an entry-level exam 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 technicians seeking the highest NATE designation. Applicants must hold at least two NATE certifications before taking the exam.

ASHRAE Certifications

The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineering (ASHRAE) offers certifications for HVAC designers and engineers. One popular certification is the Certified HVAC Designer, which demonstrates the ability to properly size equipment, perform load calculations, and create piping designs.

Pay for HVAC Professionals in Illinois

Since Illinois does not have designations for apprentice, journeyman, or master HVAC professionals, the pay varies. Entry-level technicians earn around $32,460 per year, while highly experienced technicians can earn up to $84,990.

Why Getting an HVAC License in Illinois is Beneficial?

The HVAC industry in Illinois is continuously growing, making it a promising career path. By obtaining an HVAC license or certification in the state, you can validate your proficiency as a professional technician. This not only boosts your credibility but also increases your earning potential. Employers are willing to pay more for technicians with extensive knowledge and experience in the field.

In addition, if you aspire to start your own HVAC business, having the necessary licenses provides your customers with peace of mind. It demonstrates that you meet the required standards and regulations, which can result in increased sales and customer satisfaction.

In Illinois, if you are working in the HVAC field, you will need to obtain the EPA 608 Basic Certification. This certification costs $24.95 for the initial test and $5.95 for each additional attempt. However, it's worth noting that some HVAC schools may include the cost of the initial test in their tuition fees. To find out the exact cost of the certification exam, it is best to contact your school or the organization responsible for administering the exam.

HVAC Education and Licensing in Illinois

For those interested in pursuing a career in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) in Illinois, there are several educational programs and licensing requirements to consider.

Trade Schools and Community Colleges

Most Illinois residents start their HVAC journey by enrolling in a trade school or community college. These programs typically range from six to nine months in duration and provide the necessary training to become an entry-level technician.

Here are some of the highly regarded schools in Illinois offering HVAC technician programs:

• ETI School of Skilled Trades, Willowbrook
• Elgin Community College, Elgin
• Oakton Community College, Des Plaines
• College of Lake County, Grayslake
• Waubonsee Community College, Sugar Grove

Four-Year Institutions for HVAC Engineering

If you aspire to become an HVAC engineer, you will need to attend a four-year institution and earn a bachelor's degree in engineering. Some of the top colleges in Illinois offering HVAC engineering programs are:

• Northwestern University
• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
• Illinois Institute of Technology

Tuition Costs and Financial Aid

The cost of technician schools in Illinois can range from $1,100 to $27,000. For specific information on tuition fees for four-year degrees, it is advisable to consult the websites of individual universities.

Financial aid options such as grants and scholarships are available for eligible students. To apply for financial assistance, you can visit the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) website.

Certification and Licensing

Upon completing your HVAC education, you will need to pass certification exams to qualify for an Illinois HVAC license. Certification licenses are issued by the respective organizations offering the certifications, including the EPA, NATE, and in some cases, HVAC Excellence.

Your school will provide study resources to help you prepare for these exams.