HVAC Schools in Pennsylvania: The Ultimate Guide

Accredited Pennsylvania HVAC Training Programs

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), “Because HVACR systems have become increasingly complex, employers generally prefer applicants with post-secondary education or those who have completed an apprenticeship.” Also, some craft workers enter apprenticeship programs after working as a helper. The Home Builders Institute offers a pre-apprenticeship certificate training (PACT) program for eight construction trades, including HVAC.

Pennsylvania does not license HVAC apprentices, technicians or contractors at the state level. Therefore, formal education is not required by state law. However, some municipalities including Philadelphia and Pittsburgh do require licensing for all levels of HVAC workers, and formal education is mandated. Also, technical education can help you land that first job in the field. In general, there’s a direct correlation between a degree and higher long-term earnings. So, though it’s not required to go to HVAC school to get started, it could pay off in the long run. 

Pennsylvania has quite a few programs accredited by either of the two main organizations that approve HVAC programs and schools nationwide: HVAC Excellence and the Partnership for Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Accreditation (PAHRA). These organizations evaluate the programs based on the facilities, the faculty, and whether the curriculum meets or exceeds industry standards.

HVAC Excellence has accredited six programs in Pennsylvania, and PAHRA has accredited one. 

HVAC Excellence Accredited Programs

• Berks Career and Technology Center in Oley

• Bucks County Technical High School in Fairless Hills

• Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center in Altoona

• North Montco Technical Career Center in Lansdale

• United Association of Steamfitters Local 449 Technology Center in Harmony

• York County School of Technology in York

PAHRA accredited programs

• Pennsylvania College of Technology

The National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) has also approved five HVAC programs in Pennsylvania. NCCER lists the following programs on their website as accredited schools:

• Central Westmoreland Career and Technical Center

• Fayette County Area Vocational Technical School

• Indiana County Technology Center

• Mon Valley Career & Technology Center

• Western Area Career & Technology Center

HVACR Degrees & Certificates

As you weigh the benefits of formal training at a technical or community college, you may want to speak with people in the field in your state. The licensing requirements vary from state to state; some insist on a minimum amount of education to perform work on any heating systems. Other states, like Pennsylvania, favor local licensing so you’ll need to follow the requirements of the municipalities where you plan to work — usually a minimum amount of hands-on training and classroom education. If the return on investment for formal education is not there in your state or jurisdiction, it may make more sense to simply get an entry-level position and get on-the-job training with these control systems. 

Regardless of the educational requirements by state, anyone who maintains, services, repairs, or disposes of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere needs Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification. More on that later.

In terms of college education for HVACR techs, typically there is a range of degree and certificate programs. The time it takes to complete them and the cost of each are the most significant differences. The most common HVAC programs are:

• Certificate Program – three to six months

• Diploma Program – one year

• Associate’s Degree – two years

• Bachelor’s Degree – four years

Obviously, the longer the program, the more it costs. Most HVAC professionals have some post-secondary training because the systems used to regulate our homes and businesses are becoming increasingly complex and technical. However, very few HVACR professionals choose to get a four-year bachelor’s degree unless they’re seeking an engineering degree to design and develop those complex heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.  If this is a path that interests you, you may want to explore the Mechanical Engineering Bachelor of Science degree at one of the four-year universities in Pennsylvania such as:

• Carnegie Mellon University

• Lehigh University

• Drexel University

• Lafayette College

• University of Pittsburgh

• Bucknell University

• Villanova University

• Temple University

As stated earlier, formal education can pay off in the form of higher wages. 

Typical Courses in Technical College Programs

HVAC programs at technical colleges are all intended to prepare students for careers in the refrigeration, air conditioning and heating industries. All combine theory and the practical skills needed to do the job. Most encourage students to work in their field of interest while attending school if pursuing a longer degree, and many are designed with that in mind. One-semester programs typically prepare students to find entry-level work upon completion. 

For the certificate programs, the coursework is very specialized. Broader programs of study for lengthier diploma programs would incorporate classes on blueprint reading, gas heat, heat pumps and related systems, refrigeration fundamentals, principles and practices and system components. Air Conditioning certificates or diploma programs would also include classes on air conditioning systems application and installation and troubleshooting air conditioning systems.

Students pursuing an associate’s degree in Applied Science will need to fulfill general education coursework in addition to the specialized HVACR classes to meet the more rigorous requirements for that degree. 

School Selection Criteria

There are a lot of things to consider when picking the right school and program.

Cost

Cost is, of course, at the top of the list. According to Community College Review, tuition at Pennsylvania community colleges on average is $10,793 per year for in-state students and $14,891 for out-of-state students. However, many of the accredited HVACR programs listed here cost $3,000 to $8,000. Fees vary at each school, though, so be sure to review all of the costs involved. 

There are also always costs for books and tools, but those tools are yours to keep as you enter your chosen occupational field. All students who are interested in receiving federal (Pell Grant) and state grants apply by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form online.

Program Length

As noted above, you can choose from a very specialized certificate or a broader diploma or associate’s degree. The certificates can require as few as 12 to 16 credit hours and take one semester to complete. Others may consist of as many as 45 credits and take three semesters but can be done within a year if students continue through the summer sessions. Associate’s degree programs typically take two years.

Benefits

There are many benefits to formal education if you want to join the HVACR profession. Although in Pennsylvania there is no educational requirement to get started in the field, many employers will choose an applicant with a certificate or degree over one without credentials. Having some basic knowledge helps you to hit the ground running and secure your place in a shop full of professionals. Technical training is also usually rewarded with higher starting pay and lifelong earnings.

Online vs in-person

You may choose to get HVAC training through an online certificate program. Only you know if this type of independent curriculum will work for you. Both Penn Foster and Ashworth College offer online HVAC classes.

Online programs are ideal for people looking for entry-level HVAC jobs or for entry-level workers who are looking to increase their salary. HVACClasses.org gives a detailed description of some of the top online programs nationwide. If you know your learning style relies on personal instruction, more traditional in-person classes are accessible throughout the state.

Level of difficulty

HVACR programs are designed to prepare graduates for entry-level positions in the HVAC industry in commercial, industrial, or residential sectors. Curriculum includes an understanding of mathematics and physics. 

HVAC technicians have to learn to do a lot of different things to be successful, including how to follow blueprints or other design specifications to install or repair HVAC systems, connect systems to fuel and water supply lines and air ducts, install electrical wiring and controls, proper techniques of refrigerant recovery, reclaiming and recycling, run diagnostics, and so much more.

The BLS describes the many duties of a HVAC mechanics and installers this way: iInstall, clean, and maintain HVACR systems; install electrical components and wiring; inspect and test HVACR systems and components; discuss system malfunctions with customers; repair or replace worn or defective parts; recommend maintenance to improve system performance; keep records of work performed. And, of course, especially in residential HVAC work, customer service is key.

School Comparison: At a Glance

Many of the accredited training schools listed above are county technology centers. They have programs for high school students as well as adult education programs. They offer students financial aid in the form of grants and loans and have a 100% acceptance rate. Let’s begin with the schools accredited by HVAC Excellence and PAHRA.

Berks Career and Technology Center

• HVAC/Refrigeration (day classes) | 15 months, 1,590 hours | Tuition: $15,105

• HVAC Apprenticeship | 3-Year Program (195 hours) | Tuition: $2,400

• HVAC Trade Prep | Certificate – 60 classes | Tuition: $3,950

• Refrigerant Recovery & Transition | EPA 608 Certification | Tuition: $325

Bucks County Technical High School

• Refrigeration/AC/Heating | Level One | 20 classes | Cost: $550

• Refrigeration/AC/Heating | Level Two | 20 classes | Cost: $550

Greater Altoona Career & Technology Center

• HVAC with related Plumbing & Electrical  | Full-time | 900 hours | Tuition & Fees: $13,300

North Montco Technical Career Center

• Residential Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps/Split System Technician | 72 hours | Cost: $1,100

• Refrigerant Transition and Recovery | 9 hours | Cost: $500

United Association of Steamfitters Local 449 Technology Center

• HVAC-R Services Program | 5 years | Cost covered by employer

York County School of Technology

• HVAC Technology | 900 hours | Tuition & Fees: $12,460

Pennsylvania College of Technology

• Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Engineering Technology | Bachelor of Science | 131 credit hours | 1st year | $25,756

• Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning Engineering Technology | Associate’s Degree | 70 credit hours | 1st year | $25,7835

The other programs highlighted up top are accredited by NCCER.

Central Westmoreland Career and Technical Center

• HVAC & Steamfitting | High school program | 10th, 11th & 12th grade (credit can be applied toward Pittsburgh Technical College)

Fayette County Area Vocational Technical School

• Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning | Daytime | 900 hours           

• Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning | Evening | 250 hours

Indiana County Technology Center

• HVAC/R | 900 hours | Tuition & Fees: $9,875

Mon Valley Career & Technology Center

• HVAC | High school program | 10th, 11th & 12th grade

Western Area Career & Technology Center

• Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning | Full time | 935 hours | Cost: $9,559

• Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning | Part time | 300 hours | Cost: $7,995

Steps for Enrollment in Pennsylvania

Every college has its own way of doing things, but in general the process begins with visiting the school’s website and applying for admission online. Some require that you pay an application fee and provide several documents. In general the application process has the following steps:

1. Complete your application.

2. Pay the application fee (if applicable).

3. Provide proof of residency to qualify for in-state tuition.

4. Have sealed official high school transcript or GED scores sent.

5. Submit placement test scores.

6. If applicable, apply for on-campus housing.

If you choose to start with an apprenticeship, you will want to contact the Local Union or non-union trade organization chapter closest to you. Each organization has a slightly different application process, but the application requirements in general are:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.

• Must be a high school graduate, senior scheduled to graduate or have earned a GED certificate. Applicants will be required to provide a copy of their diploma or GED certificate, and an official transcript of their grades following submission of the application.

• Must have a valid driver’s license.

• Have passed high school algebra or an equivalent post-high school algebra class with a “C” or better or pass an aptitude test.

• Pass a drug screen and criminal background checks.

HVAC Career Requirements in Pennsylvania

As mentioned earlier, Pennsylvania does not have an educational requirement to legally perform entry-level HVACR work at the state level, but many jurisdictions within the state do mandate education. Pittsburgh and Philadelphia and other local municipalities in the state require local HVAC licenses or certifications to work on HVAC systems. If you want to own your own HVAC business you will need to get a contractor license.

HVAC professionals anywhere in the country, including Pennsylvania, must obtain an EPA HVAC certification if they conduct refrigerant line-pressure tests, or handle or add refrigerant to existing air conditioning systems, according to EPA regulations under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. For a detailed explanation of EPA certification and Pennsylvania’s HVACR licensing requirements and how to fulfill them, check out our essential guide to getting your Pennsylvania HVAC License guide.

Salaries for HVAC Technicians in Pennsylvania

Before paying for technical education and getting started in the HVAC field you’ll want some idea of what you can expect in terms of the return on your investment of time, effort, energy, and money. In other words, what can you expect to make as an HVAC professional in Pennsylvania? Payscale.com data provides an answer based on your experience. The median HVAC salary in Pennsylvania for 2023 is:

• Entry level <2 years : $50,800

• Intermediate 2-4 years: $59,400

• Senior 4-6 years: $66,300

• Supervisor > 7 years: $86,300

For more information about HVAC salaries,visit this state-by-state guide.

Industry Apprenticeships 

Another way to get the training you need to become an HVAC mechanic or installer is through a formal apprenticeship. Most apprenticeships are three to five years long and require you to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or a GED, a valid driver’s license and have passed high school algebra or an equivalent post-high school algebra class with a “C” or better. 

The Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors (PHCC) of Pennsylvania has apprentice programs approved by the U.S. Department of Labor through the Bucks County PHCC, PHCC of Lehigh Valley, Philadelphia Suburban PHCC, and an online program. The Air Conditioning Contractors Association of Western Pennsylvania has a four-year apprenticeship program registered with the State of Pennsylvania. Union HVAC apprenticeships are also offered in Pennsylvania through the United Association local union chapters — LU 520 in Harrisburg, LU 420 in Philadelphia, LU 449 in Pittsburgh, and LU 354 in Latrobe. They are five years long. Each year includes 1,700 to 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and a minimum of 246 hours of classroom courses, including basics such as mathematics, science, drafting, welding and other trade-related courses. Apprentices work for member contractors with an opportunity for increased wages each year until reaching journeyman status.

Some HVAC companies will hire applicants with no previous training and provide the training themselves — creating an in-house apprenticeship. A pretty typical model of that is pairing a new employee with an experienced technician for the hands-on part of training and then requiring new hires to attend classes at night at a community college or sometimes taught through the company itself. This typically includes getting EPA Certification and other HVAC certification such as North American Technical Excellence (NATE) certification as a way to demonstrate your proficiency. There are also websites dedicated to registered apprenticeships. Pennsylvania Career Link and the Pennsylvania Apprenticeship and Training Office website are just two of them.

Other School Options

We’ve highlighted accredited colleges thus far, but accredited programs are far from your only option in Pennsylvania for HVAC courses.

There are many other programs throughout the state that may be more accessible to you based on where you live. There are just too many to list them all here, but each school below has HVAC programs.

• All-State Career School in West Mifflin

• Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC)

• Johnson College in Scranton

• Lehigh Carbon Community College in Schnecksville

• Lincoln Tech in Allentown

• Newcastle School of Trades

• Orleans Technical College in Pittsburgh

• Penn Commercial Business Technical School in Washington

• Pennco Tech in Bristol

• Rosedale Technical College in Pittsburgh

• Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology in Lancaster 

• Triangle Tech in Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania has hundreds of college campuses and trade schools across the state. You can find the training you need to excel in a career in HVACR in Pennsylvania. The opportunities are all around you.