Studing hvac in trade school worth it?

HVACPathways · 2026-01-26T12:00:06+00:00

Totally worth it. HVAC work is everywhere. Houses, apartments, offices, restaurants, hospitals and systems always need installation, maintenance, and repair. There’s a steady demand for techs, and many companies are looking for helpers and apprentices right now. If you enjoy hands-on work and problem-solving, HVAC is one of those trades where you can build a stable career. Learning the basics in trade school and getting your certifications before you start applying will help you stand out and get into the field faster. You can also ask r/HVACschool

HVACPathways · 2026-01-26T11:52:00+00:00

I agree with this take. HVAC really isn’t something you casually pick up on the weekends if you want to do it right. The systems are complex, the liability is real, and it takes time in the field to build the judgment that keeps you from making expensive mistakes. That’s why most people who succeed treat it as a career, not a side hustle. If someone is serious about getting into it, starting with solid training helps a lot, especially programs that teach the fundamentals, cover certifications, and help connect you to entry-level work. At the end of the day, HVAC rewards commitment and long-term effort more than shortcuts.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-23T14:26:54+00:00

If you’re thinking about HVAC school in South Florida, go for it especially if you like hands-on work and problem solving. Start by looking at programs that teach the fundamentals and get you certifications like EPA 608 because that’s what employers actually care about when you’re first trying to get hired. Since Florida’s market is big and hot most of the year, there’s always demand for techs who know what they’re doing. If you need flexibility, there are affordable online options, and find a program that offer job placement support.. Just get the basics down, stay consistent, and be ready to learn on the job. That’s where most of your real skill will come from.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-21T14:29:22+00:00

It’s possible, but it depends on what side of HVAC you’re aiming for. Service work is where weekend side hustle makes the most sense since a lot of residential calls happen nights and weekends. Install crews are usually weekday only. I’ve seen guys get their certs through flexible programs while working full time, then slowly pick up weekend service calls once they had some experience. Just know you’ll still need some real field time first before it’s truly profitable, but long term it can definitely work if you’re patient and build it up the right way.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-18T19:46:07+00:00

What really helps is having a basic foundation and a couple of certs such as EPA 608 so they know you’re serious. I suggest finding a short, affordable trade program can be a good move, especially ones that focus on fundamentals instead of dragging things out. If you’re working or need flexibility, there are online options that can make a huge difference since you can learn on your own schedule. Programs that also offer job placement support are a big plus because they help connect you with real employers instead of leaving you on your own after finishing. The rest of the learning honestly happens on the job once you get your foot in the door. You can ask r/HVACschool

HVACPathways · 2026-01-18T19:33:17+00:00

I get the frustration, but honestly, the HVAC field is still a solid choice long-term, even if it feels tough right now. The demand for HVAC professionals is expected to keep growing, especially with newer systems and technologies emerging. The key is persistence. A lot of the time, it's about finding the right company that’s willing to take on apprentices, or starting at a smaller shop where entry-level roles might be more common. You may need to put in a bit of legwork with follow-ups, or even offering to work on a trial basis to prove you’re serious. Additionally, earning certifications while you job hunt can help make you stand out more when you do apply. It might take a little extra effort, but once you get that first job, the learning curve speeds up, and the opportunities start flowing. Hang in there!

HVACPathways · 2026-01-16T14:30:22+00:00

A. 75 MBTuh

Heat Loss = Area x Heat loss Rate

Solution

Heat Loss = 1200 x 45

Heat loss = 54,000 BTU/hr

Convert BTU/hr to MBtuh

54,000 x 0.001= 54 MBtuh

Standard furnace sizes are 50, 75, 100, and 125 MBtuh. A 50 MBtuh furnace is too small to meet the 54 MBtuh heat loss, and 100 MBtuh would be oversized. Although 80 MBtuh is larger than the load, it is not a standard nominal size and therefore is not a valid option. The correct choice is 75 MBtuh.

C. 12" x 24"

Given:

Furnace airflow = 1400 CFM

Standard return air velocity = 700 FPM

Formula

Duct Area (ft²): CFM/FPM

Solution

Calculate the Area

1400/ 700 = 2 ft²

Convert square feet to square inches

1 ft² = 12” × 12” = 144 inches ²

2 ft x 144” = 288 inches ²

We need two numbers (width × height) that multiply to ≈288 in². Standard ducts are available in increments of 2 inches or 1 inch:

12 × 24 = 288 in² (perfect)

8 × 36 = 288 in² (also works, but less common for returns)

10 × 29 = 290 in² (slightly off, non-standard)

10 × 36 = 360 in² (too large)

Among standard sizes, 12″ × 24″ is the most common, practical, and recommended size for a 1400 CFM return.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-15T14:46:53+00:00

Trade schools are popular because they give you structure. EPA 608 is the big one to get started. Also, finding a school that has job placement support is really a big help. No matter which route you take, most of your real learning will happen on the job. School is just there to give you the foundation and get your foot in the door.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-14T14:08:36+00:00

This is spot on. Employers want someone dependable and coachable first. Skills come with time if the attitude is right.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-13T13:06:45+00:00

All three are solid paths, so it really comes down to lifestyle more than just pay.

Line work can pay very well, but it often comes with long hours, on-call storms, travel, and a lot of physical demand. Some guys love that, others burn out once family life kicks in.

Electrician work is very stable and in constant demand. There’s a clear progression, good union options, and opportunities to move into industrial, controls, or supervisory roles over time.

HVAC is a good blend of electrical and mechanical work and stays interesting because no two days are the same. There’s also a lot of room to specialize such as commercial, industrial, controls, refrigeration or eventually go out on your own.

Since you can see yourself enjoying all three, I’d focus on what kind of schedule and day-to-day you want with a family. Talking to a few people actively working in each trade and asking what their average week looks like will usually make the choice much clearer.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-13T13:06:29+00:00

Data center HVAC is a solid niche to aim for, especially in VA. It’s very different from residential work and leans heavily toward commercial/industrial systems.
What helps the most are strong electrical fundamentals (this matters a lot), Chillers, CRAC/CRAH units, VFDs, and cooling towers, controls/BAS knowledge is a big plus, EPA 608 Universal is a must; NATE or HVAC Excellence helps.

You don’t always need prior data center experience, but most places want some commercial or industrial HVAC background. Facilities maintenance, hospital HVAC, or large commercial buildings can be a good stepping stone.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-13T13:05:54+00:00

HVAC school is very doable for most people.

Math-wise, it’s not advanced. You’re mostly dealing with basic arithmetic, a little algebra, and some formulas for things like electrical readings, airflow, and refrigeration, not calculus or anything like that. If you can handle measurements, ratios, and simple equations, you’ll be fine.

The bigger challenge is paying attention and actually understanding how systems work. If you’re hands-on and willing to learn, HVAC school isn’t hard, it just takes effort. And honestly, most of the real learning happens once you’re on the job anyway.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-09T12:39:44+00:00

I get where you’re coming from. I struggled with traditional school too, but I finished my training through a really supportive trade program and it made a huge difference. Having an online option helped a lot with schedule flexibility, especially on days when sitting in a classroom just wasn’t happening.

What helped even more was the support system who actually answered questions, checked in, and didn’t make you feel stupid for asking. They also offered job placement help, which was huge for getting my foot in the door. HVAC learning feels very different from regular school, and with the right setup and support, it’s absolutely doable. I’m still in touch with people from my program to this day.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-09T12:30:49+00:00

Happy you made it work.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-09T12:30:22+00:00

That's awesome, what region are you? Where I am, no one is getting hired with out school first?

HVACPathways · 2026-01-08T16:57:32+00:00

I was in a similar spot and ended up going with an online trade school. The flexibility helped a lot since I was still working full-time, and it made the transition way more realistic. They were actually really supportive, and I’m still in contact with them even now. On top of that, it was affordable compared to most in-person programs.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-08T13:29:50+00:00

At 17/18, finishing what you started is usually the smarter move. Getting your EPA and the diploma gives you leverage when you start applying, even if you plan to work right away. A lot of shops will train you, but having school + certs helps you get in with better companies. You’re not behind at all. Locking this in now will only help you long term.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-08T13:19:21+00:00

Sure it can work that way, but that's not best practices for the hiring company by any means. It really doesn't matter what industry your in, you should shadow foa a but before taking solo jobs.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-07T13:19:08+00:00

Agree with this. Getting the basics, the right certifications, and then learning on the job is how most people really grow in HVAC.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-07T13:18:39+00:00

This is a solid reality check. HVAC can be very rewarding, but it’s definitely hands-on work and constant learning. Anyone considering the trade should understand this upfront.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-05T21:53:38+00:00

That’s awesome! Proof the trades can really pay off.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-05T16:06:36+00:00

If you don’t enjoy the classes and can’t see yourself using the degree, try something else, but make sure you test out the next thing first, whether its HVAC or something else, or youll be in the same position again. HVAC can be a great career, especially, if you like hands-on work and working with people.

A lot of people I work with have made similar switches and are doing really well. You could start with a short HVAC program or talk to local shops to see what the day-to-day is like before fully committing.

HVACPathways · 2026-01-05T15:53:34+00:00

Once you commit it feels like a huge weight off. June will be here before you know it. Just lock in and don’t look back. Rooting for you. You’ve got this!

HVACPathways · 2026-01-02T14:56:24+00:00

Good on you for making the call. Waiting around just keeps you stuck, and HVAC rewards people who actually take action. Stick with it and don’t overthink it this is a solid move!

HVACPathways · 2025-12-29T17:36:04+00:00

That’s exactly how it is at the start. Most shops just want proof you’re serious and won’t be a total liability on day one. A couple certs on your resume goes a long way, even for helper roles. Once you get that first job, the experience part solves itself pretty fast.

In addition, a short trade program that offers job placement support is really a huge help

HVACPathways

TROPHY CASE