Keeping your HVAC system in pristine condition isn’t always easy. So you want a team of HVAC NATE-certified technicians on your side that will rush to your home and handle all your HVAC needs when you need them most. But what is HVAC NATE certification?
The heating and cooling specialists at Rock Valley HVAC are here to help.
Rock Valley HVAC is one of Milton, WI’s most trusted heating and cooling companies. Our HVAC experts in Milton put together a guide to teach you everything you need to know about HVAC NATE certification. Read on to learn more about HVAC NATE certification and its importance.
What Is NATE?
North American Technician Excellence, better known as NATE, is a nonprofit certification association for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technicians. It encompasses the largest and most respected national certification organization in the industry today. It puts HVAC specialists through rigorous training to ensure they have the knowledge and skills necessary to install, repair, and maintain your heating and cooling system safely and efficiently.
Although HVAC NATE certification isn’t mandatory for technicians, it proves exceedingly beneficial and qualifies them for even the toughest HVAC projects. It provides them with real-world working knowledge and ensures their customers that their heating and cooling system is in good hands.
Most people believe the heating and cooling company the technician works for receives the HVAC NATE certification. However, this is not the case. NATE awards the HVAC specialists the certification and allows them to carry the title even if they decide to leave their current company.
What Do Technicians Have to Do to Become HVAC NATE Certified?
NATE puts technicians through numerous experienced-based tests that push their skills to the limit. They examine their knowledge and provide professional training to guarantee they can perform at the highest level. NATE also provides follow-up training and exams every two years to ensure its pupils remain sharp and professional.
The best HVAC specialists in the nation construct the NATE certification exams. The certification test covers numerous subjects, including.
- HVAC fundamentals
- Electrical systems and controls
- Comfort and airflow
- Installation and service
- Tools and safety protocol
Although prior work experience isn’t required, NATE highly recommends that technicians have at least one year of formal training from a technical school or previous employer. NATE offers multiple tests that technicians can choose from, each specializing in specific areas of the industry.
However, before HVAC specialists become NATE certified, they must pass two entry exams: The Ready-to-Work and HVAC Support Technician tests. They must score a 70% or higher to qualify for additional certification. Once they pass both exams, they must work in the industry for at least two years before moving forward.
After the technician receives two years of experience, they are eligible for further certification. They can choose one of the following certification pathways.
- Certified HVAC Professional (CHP-5): Requires technicians to pass five tests covering the HVAC fundamentals, comfort and airflow, electrical components and controls, service, and installation.
- The traditional NATE certification pathway: Requires technicians to pass the NATE core exam or one or more specialty exams in a specific area.
Heating and cooling specialists with vast HVAC experience (usually five years or more) and one of the certifications listed above can take the Senior Level Technician exam. This puts them in one of the highest industry brackets.
How Long Does It Take To Become NATE Certified?
Most technicians complete the HVAC NATE certification program in two years. However, the ground source pump heat installer certification requires three years to finish.
If the technician wants to recertify, they must complete at least 16 continuous hours of educational programs listed on NATE’s website within two years before qualifying. NATE also requires returning technicians to pay a renewal fee or pass the specialty test before a specific date.
It’s important to note that heating and refrigeration companies can carry the NATE certification without every technician passing the exam. If at least 50% of their team receives HVAC NATE certification, they can advertise the credentials on their website, truck, or office.
You can ask for a NATE-certified HVAC specialist if your heating and cooling service publicizes the certificate. If possible, find a company with a 100% NATE-certified team. This ensures you receive the best heating and cooling services possible every time you need HVAC maintenance.
How Long Does NATE Certification Last?
NATE certification isn’t permanent. HVAC specialists must complete additional tests and educational programs every two years to remain certified. This helps technicians stay updated with new HVAC systems, technology, and industry advancements.
Why Work With a NATE-Certified Technician?
Expert Service
Technicians with HVAC NATE certification represent some of the best heating and cooling specialists in the industry. Their extensive experience, vast knowledge, and unparalleled skills put them in the industry’s top tiers. They understand all the ins and outs of HVAC units better than anyone, ensuring you receive top-notch service every time they visit your home.
Swift Installation, Repair, and Maintenance
Since NATE-certified technicians know everything about heating and cooling systems, they can repair, maintain, and install your HVAC unit faster than most other specialists. The program’s rigorous training gives them a leg up on their competition and guarantees fast and efficient service to the customer.
Less Frequent Repairs
Having your heating and cooling system serviced by the industry’s best technicians ensures your HVAC runs at its optimal efficiency level year-round, diminishing its chances of breaking down. You won’t have to shell out hundreds of dollars for minimal repairs every few months, keeping more money in your pockets.
Saves You Money on Monthly Utility Costs
An HVAC NATE-certified technician ensures your unit keeps your home cool and comfortable without wasting energy. Improper maintenance or installation requires your HVAC unit to work harder, resulting in skyrocketing utility bills that you could avoid. Using licensed and NATE-certified specialists guarantees your unit functions properly, saving you on your monthly energy expenses.
Other HVAC Certifications To Look For
HVAC NATE certification isn’t the only credential to look for in a heating and cooling company. Several other certifications ensure that you receive expert service next time your HVAC unit malfunctions. Let’s review some other credentials to look for before committing to an HVAC company.
- EPA 608 certification: Qualifies technicians to handle refrigerants
- HVAC Excellence Certification: Proves HVAC specialists have the expertise to meet the ESCO Group’s maintenance standards
- HVAC Quality Installation Standard: Ensures the technician can handle several HVAC services like maintenance, installation, repair, etc.
You also want to ensure your heating and cooling specialist possesses all the local and state licenses required for professional HVAC services. Using an unlicensed team puts your unit in jeopardy since they aren’t qualified to install, maintain, or repair your HVAC.
Contact Rock Valley HVAC for NATE-Certified Technicians in Milton, WI
If you want high-quality HVAC installation and associated services from NATE-certified technicians, contact Rock Valley HVAC. Our team has vast experience repairing, maintaining, and installing all the leading HVAC units from the industry’s top brands. We can handle all your heating and cooling needs at a price you can afford.
Our dedication to first-class HVAC service remains just as strong as our commitment to outstanding customer care. We always prioritize your needs and provide excellent customer service every step of the way.
Whether you need emergency HVAC repair or want to learn more about air conditioning installation, the Rock Valley HVAC team is always here for you.
Don’t trust inexperienced HVAC companies that don’t have HVAC NATE certifications. Contact Rock Valley HVAC at (608) 247-4949 and schedule your appointment today!
