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THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF GOING TO HVAC SCHOOL

websitebuilder • Feb 12, 2020

A career in heating, air conditioning, and ventilation can be rewarding and lucrative. According to The Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration NEWS, the demand for HVAC workers is increasing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also reports that the job outlook for those in the industry has grown much faster than average.

Going to school for HVAC training is often the best way to enter the field with adequate knowledge and experience you need to succeed. If you’re interested in going to HVAC school, you need to be prepared for the challenges and rewards that come along with the classes you’ll take and the training you’ll receive. Consider these do’s and don’ts of going to HVAC school.

Technician Working A/C — Chicago, IL — HVAC Technical Institute

DO TAKE OPTIMAL CARE OF YOURSELF

Students sometimes fail to understand the importance of self-care. If you plan to commit to an educational program, you need to bring your best self to class each day. If you are too sleepy, hungry, or ill, you won’t be able to focus on learning. Adults need to get between seven to nine hours of sleep each night to function well in school and pay adequate attention.

Since HVAC can be a very physically demanding field, try to establish and maintain a regular workout schedule, too. In addition to getting 30 minutes of moderate exercise several times a week for healthy physical fitness, try working with a trainer to lift weights and build your strength. That can be an asset as you deal with heavy equipment for your training.

DON’T GET TOO COMFORTABLE WITH TRAINING MATERIALS

A career in HVAC can be hazardous if you are not well-educated about the different chemicals that you may need in your training. Your instructors will provide safety instructions, but you need to be proactive about your own safety.

Take careful notes on each product. Learn which chemicals are potentially dangerous and know exactly what they do. Also, if you bring home any chemicals during training, always keep them locked away.

DO START PREPARING FOR THE HVAC CERTIFICATION EXAM FROM THE START

Begin your HVAC career training with your end goals in mind. You know from the start that passing the HVAC certification exam is important. Although it is not required to start work as an HVAC technician, it will set you apart from non-professionals and help your future customers be happy putting their trust in you.

The North American Technician Excellence offers four levels of certifications. The training that you receive in school will give you the knowledge and experience that you need to get certified. If you want to pursue the certifications, speak to your school instructors and advisors about the best certification path for you.

DON’T IGNORE THE IMPORTANCE OF DEVELOPING YOUR PEOPLE SKILLS

A lot of the work that an HVAC technician does is focused on their technical skills and talents. However, you will meet new people throughout each workday. As you meet people who are in need of your services, you need to be well-prepared to keep a positive attitude and professional manner.

Don’t neglect to develop your people skills even if it’s not a formal part of your education. You’ll have to deal with various customers in all types of situations. You need to be prepared for worst-case scenarios and know that you can maintain your professional demeanor in any situation.

Smile and greet each customer warmly. Make eye contact, and let them know that you care about their comfort. You may rehearse a line you say when greeting customers that tells them why you got into the HVAC field. You will set the scene for a pleasant transaction by being friendly and positive.

Also, practice active listening to help your customers feel heard. That can diffuse a stressful situation. Express sympathy for their situation if they’re upset. You don’t have to admit fault to simply make that human connection.

DO CHOOSE A SCHOOL THAT WORKS WITH YOUR SCHEDULE

If you are in your late teens or early twenties with no outside responsibilities, you’ll probably be able to attend classes with any set schedule. However, if you juggle a job, parenting, and other responsibilities, choosing a school that will customize a schedule to suit your needs will help you set yourself up for success. Don’t try to commit to a schedule you will struggle to meet.

Also, take the time to talk to the admission counselors and staff members of the school about what your specific needs are. If you want a school where you can do some courses from home, you need to voice that upfront. Also, take the time to ask about what the school’s expectations are for all students. That will help save you time and quickly figure out whether a school is a good match.

Finally, contact the HVAC Technical Institute today for information about how our personalized training options for career in air conditioning, ventilation, and heating. We empower students to learn in a supportive educational environment while also getting hands-on training. No matter what your home situation or HVAC career goals are, we can help prepare you to meet them.

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