by christheacman | Apr 6, 2021 | HVAC Classes, News, Technical Career
Did you see the news about some changes happening here at The Training Center of Air Conditioning and Heating? We have recently changed the format of our HVAC classes from a 14-week class format to a new 10-week format.
The adjustment in the length and format of our classes may seem like quite a big change, but ultimately it is a change that we think will be of great benefit to both our students and our school.
We wanted to take a little bit of time to explain exactly what the change from 14-week classes to 10-week will mean and what changes will happen as a result.
Why the change?
Over the years of teaching, Chris Walters, the school’s founder, has continued to fine-tune and perfect the curriculum we conduct for our students. As a result, Chris and our staff have gotten very efficient… not to toot our own horn. With our staff knowing what topics need more emphasis and what topics require less time, many of our recent 14-week classes have started to become trimmed of fluff and finished up ahead of schedule!
So, in order to help our students complete their education and get into the field a whopping four weeks early, we decided to just completely change our schedule since our classes were trending that way anyway.
With a new 10-week format, our students can start finding work and making a living in their new field sooner than ever.
What is different?
While it seems like trimming four weeks off our HVAC classes is a significant cut, we assure you it really isn’t! The 14-week and 10-week classes have the same schedule, cover the same topics, and contain the same information. We have simply just tightened things up.
By maximizing efficiency in the classroom because of the shorter class duration, our new 10-week format allows us to actually spend more time than ever on hands-on training and education. Mastery of heating and cooling equipment servicing can only happen through doing. This approach helps our students get more comfortable with the equipment and techniques and helps better prepare them for entering the workforce.
The other difference created by shortening our class durations is that it allows us to add another class session! We are now able to offer morning, evening, and afternoon classes now instead of just morning and evening, allowing us to admit and train more students throughout the course of the year!
How can I sign up?
Our new 10-week program is offered four times every year with morning, evening, and afternoon options. Right now, the training school is busier than we have ever been, which means available spots are going away fast!
But, the change and newly created afternoon has also created more opportunities for admission! If you are interested in starting a rewarding career in the HVAC industry here in Texas, you’ll find no better curriculum or training staff anywhere else that will prepare you with the knowledge and hands-on experience you need to succeed.
Check out our schedule of upcoming HVAC classes, learn more about the curriculum, and how to apply to join the school here! If you aren’t sure if HVAC is right for you, you can also ask us about sitting in on a 3-hour class free of charge!
by christheacman | Mar 3, 2021 | Air Conditioning, HVAC Education, HVAC Services, HVAC System, News, Refrigerant
For years, R22 refrigerant was used in the majority of in-home air conditioning systems and considered the king of refrigeration. Well, the times have certainly changed.
Since January 2020, the production and importation of R22 has been banned, allowing only for continuing use of R22 from recycled or stockpiled reserves because of its negative impact on the environment. By January 2030, the EPA’s goal is to phase out the use of R22 almost entirely.
Considering that the majority of air conditioning and other cooling systems manufactured and installed before 2010, when heavy R22 regulations began, utilize R22 refrigerant, these mandates have changed much about the education and practices of HVAC technicians when it comes to refrigerants.
It has spurred us in the HVAC industry to explore and understand more environmentally and efficient refrigerant alternatives as well as inspired technicians to educate their customers on the matter. After all, the phasing out of R22 refrigerant is also going to put customers in the position to make some important decisions regarding their systems as well.
When those questions and decisions do come up, as an HVAC technician or a technician in training it’ll be your responsibility to help your customers make the best and most informed decisions for understanding and replacing their R22 refrigerant systems.
Here are some of the most important things for you and your customers to understand about R22 refrigerant.
Why R22 refrigerant is banned
The reason refrigerant has fallen under so much scrutiny over the past few decades is the negative impact it has been found to have on the environment. Refrigerants can produce emissions that are destructive to the Earth’s ozone layer and contribute to global warming.
This revelation spurred the EPA and governments across the world to begin enforcing stricter regulations on the use of refrigerants and creating new required certifications for HVAC technicians on the handling and disposal of refrigerant, such as the EPA 608 Certification.
So, while 2020 was a year that ramped up restrictions on production and importing of R22 refrigerant, regulations on environmentally harmful refrigerant has been ongoing for decades, with 2010 being a major turning point.
Your customers can continue to use their equipment
The most common question you are likely to encounter from your customers regarding their R22 refrigerant units is “am I still allowed to use it?” The answer is, of course, yes. While the ban exists to cease the production and import of R22, it doesn’t ban the ongoing use of it. So, it is important to put your customer’s mind at ease on this fact.
However, while the ongoing use of their current system is fine, it will present some serious issues for them going forward. As their HVAC technician, someone they should value and trust as an expert in your field, you do have an obligation to inform your customers of what they will be dealing with long term with these systems.
Maintaining their R22 refrigerant system is going to cost them
Because of the ban in production and import, ongoing repairs and replacements on R22 refrigerant systems will have to come from the remaining stockpile of reserves – a stockpile that will continue to rapidly dwindle over the next few years.
As supply diminishes and repair and maintenance demand for these systems (many of which installed before 2010) increases, it will create a landscape in which the cost of these repairs will rise and rise and rise. In the next few years, a refrigerant replacement job that would normally be fairly straightforward and relatively inexpensive will cost your customers a great deal more because of the limited supply.
As you encounter customers with cooling systems that utilize R22, it is a good idea to make this situation known to them and help them understand their options going forward. They may be stubborn and OK with paying more for the sake of living with their system until it finally kicks the bucket. However, you should make them at least understand the value of upgrading and replacing their cooling systems with more efficient and environmentally friendly modern systems.
R22 alternatives
As HVAC technicians continue to work in a post-R22 world, knowing the available R22 alternatives will help you be a better and more well-rounded HVAC technician, as well as become a more valuable resource for your customers when they are searching for replacements for their outdated cooling systems.
While no refrigerant is perfect and each has their own pluses and minuses, our preferred R22 alternative is R421a. R421a has 0 ODP, is non-flammable, is useful in a number of different applications, can in many cases can be used as a direct R22 replacement, and most importantly is one of the more environmentally friendly refrigerants available.
R32, R407c, and other greener refrigerant alternatives are also available and preferred by some. Like we said, there is no end-all be-all refrigerant choice. Good HVAC technicians will familiarize themselves with as many as they can and come to their own conclusions as to which they prefer and recommend to their customers.
The Training Center of Heating and Air Conditioning takes the health of the beautiful world around us very seriously, so refrigerant education is something we take very seriously and even make EPA 608 certification a part of the requirements for graduation from our school.
If you are interested in learning more about a career in HVAC as a technician, check out upcoming schedule of classes to find the session that best suits you.
by christheacman | Feb 2, 2021 | HVAC Career, News, Technical Career
After a year in which the only thing that was predictable was the unpredictable, 2021 offers a fresh start. However with the coronavirus pandemic still ongoing and many changes to come after it is eventually overcome, there is still a fair amount of uncertainty surrounding the future of many businesses and industries.
For us and our students at the Training Center of Air Conditioning and Heating, that obviously begs the question, “what does the immediate future look like for HVAC?”
The global pandemic leading to lockdowns and calls to shelter in place across the country, people spent more time at home this past year. Because of this, the HVAC industry was fortunate enough to stay steady and serve the heating and cooling needs of folks in their homes in order to stay comfortable while they stayed safe.
But, will that continue to be a viable situation for the foreseeable future? After all, although a career in the trades equips you with a very special skill set, if the future for HVAC feels unsure, incoming HVAC professionals and technicians need to be aware of what is ahead of them.
While the pandemic will eventually be conquered and life returning to (somewhat) normality, it is still worth carefully considering the outlook of any professions you are in or currently exploring as we head into 2021 and the somewhat uncertain future that lies ahead.
When it comes to what the HVAC industry will look like in 2021, what better source to turn to than the leaders of the industry?
The Future Looks Strong
In a recent article, many of the HVAC industry’s most distinguished leaders were asked about what the outlook for the HVAC industry and HVAC technicians looked like in 2021. There was a common sentiment among every one of them: the future is looking strong!
Projecting the needs of customers and the outlook of an eventually returning economy, the leaders of the HVAC industry point to a multitude of factors that should contribute to a strong continuing need for HVAC services and technicians, as well as new opportunities that should begin to present themselves.
Our work is never done
The reality is that as the pandemic continues, and even after it is eventually past, folks will continue to rely heavily on the comfort provided by their heating and cooling systems. Many businesses and professionals will continue to work and operate remotely from their homes and drive the need for peak performance of their HVAC system.
The foreseeable increased reliance on home comfort systems by those working and learning from home, many of these experts predict, will drive the need for more regular equipment servicing and replacement over the next few years, providing no shortage of jobs and opportunities for HVAC service providers and technicians.
New growing interest in indoor air quality
Many of the industry’s experts noted that the airborne nature of the pandemic has also created an increased awareness of consumers on the need for improved air quality, especially in commercial spaces. Even following the conclusion of the pandemic, experts predict there will continue to be a demand for indoor air purification equipment for both homes and businesses – a need that will be filled by those in the HVAC industry.
As demand for air purification equipment increases, heating and cooling companies will see an increased opportunity for installation and servicing work surrounding these types of equipment. This will drive a need for HVAC technicians to thoroughly train and educate themselves with this type of equipment in order to better offer and market these services.
New regulations will create better practices
Normalcy will not return without changes to protocols for HVAC technicians to safely serve their customers. However, these changes, some experts predict, will ultimately prove to have positive effects on operations, particularly project management.
Brian Helm of the Mechanical Contractors Association of America Inc. in particular stated, “In 2021, I think contractors will use what we learned from working remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic to simplify many aspects of project management. We will see the evolution of data management tools from the current desktop-centered format to a mobile-centric approach. This will make it easier than ever for our project managers to stay connected.”
So, should those considering a career in HVAC be concerned about the future of the industry? Quite the contrary! The 2021 HVAC outlook for technicians looks very promising. Here at the Training Center of Air Conditioning and Heating, we are continuing to educate and prepare our students for a HVAC career in a post-COVID world.
Learn more about our upcoming class schedule online.
by christheacman | Jan 3, 2020 | Holiday Season, News
The new year is finally upon us! As we move forward into 2020, it’s time to start thinking about resolution ideas and how to achieve your goals in this new year. And of course, no list of new year goals is complete without some attention to your long-term career. What are your work plans for 2020? See if these ideas might be worth considering!
Research a Future in HVAC
Are you struggling to find a long-term stable career? Why not give the HVAC industry a chance? With the high percentage of Americans who have an air conditioning and/or heating system in their homes, you’ll never be short on clients and work. Best of all, you can finish your classes and get started in as little as 14 weeks with Chris Walters’ teaching method! Find out more here.
Get HVAC Certified
Classes are just the first step toward your new HVAC career. There are additional certifications you’ll need to earn and tests you have to pass to truly establish yourself as a trustworthy technician. This year, take the time to find out what those requirements are and work toward them. You’ll be on the road to success in no time!
Pro Tip: The state of Texas requires certain tests and certifications for HVAC technicians, while others aren’t required but strongly recommended. It’s in your best interest to pursue as many as possible in both categories.
Keep Your Education Going
Your education never truly stops, especially in a technical field. You should always be open to new information or ideas about your industry. In the new year, keep researching new developments and updates in your field to stay informed. The more you learn about your field, the better you’ll be at your job!
Conclusion
Most people look to a new year with hope and a list of ideas for self-improvement. As you work your way through your list of resolutions, don’t forget that a stable career will do wonders for both your future and your mental health. This year, give yourself the gift of a new career in the HVAC industry!
Connect with us to learn more about registering for 2020 HVAC classes.
by christheacman | Dec 20, 2019 | Holiday Season, News
2019 has zipped along to the end in the blink of an eye. This is the time of the year we pause and reflect, analyze the year behind us and look ahead with great anticipation for the year to come. We consider what went well and look for opportunities for growth. With that in mind, here’s a look at 2019 with the Training Center!
Affordable, Informative Classes
The Training Center is dedicated to providing aspiring HVAC technicians with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in their new career field. The classes we offer are laid-back and structured to actually teach crucial material instead of just focusing on basics. Chris Walters’ method is proven to work! We even offer financing plans to ensure you can pay for your education here. Let us help you get on the path to a new career!
Career Stability
By its nature, HVAC is a very steady career to enter. You’ll always have an air conditioning or heating system to work on in a client’s home, business, or workplace. The outlook for HVAC technicians in 2020 is as great as ever! Whether you’re new to the HVAC field or you’re still on the fence, you’re sure to find success in the new year.
Hard-Working Students
Our students are dedicated and work hard to succeed in the technical field. In 2020, we look forward to welcoming the new classes and training the next generation of HVAC technicians! Anyone who wants to learn how to work on HVAC systems and is willing to work is more than welcome to join us in the new year.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on our social media and blog to see when the next class session begins! We’re always ready to welcome new students.
Conclusion
The holiday season and the end of another year are always busy. However, it’s also a time for reflection on the recent past and planning for the future. The Training Center of Air Conditioning & Heating is dedicated to improving ourselves in the new year, and we hope to pass that hope for improvement on to our clients!
What are your holiday plans? Let us know on Facebook and enjoy your time off!
by christheacman | Nov 22, 2019 | Holiday Season, News, Thanksgiving
Whether you’re new to the Training Center or you’ve been with us for a while, we want to wish you a happy Thanksgiving! It’s time to take time off work, enjoy a great meal, and spend time with your family. What are you thankful for this year? Here’s what we’re celebrating this Thanksgiving!
Our Dedicated Students
Hard work is always rewarded, and our students prove this to be the case every year. Every class is full of focused, sharp-minded learners working toward a new career to better themselves and help others in the process. Keep up the good work and keep your eyes on the goal!
Pro Tip: Missed registration for 2019 classes? Don’t worry, enrollment for our 2020 classes are open now! Hold your spot to join our dedicated student body!
A Stable Career Path
In a world where the job market is unpredictable and it’s easy to be out of work, it’s great to know that your specialty will always be in demand. An HVAC career is a rewarding choice and one that’s well worth being thankful for. Whether you’re established in your career or just considering it, you’re on the right track! Don’t forget to include this career as you count your blessings.
Comfortable Temperatures
HVAC work is always needed, no matter what time of year. However, it can be nice to have a short break around the holidays to be with your friends and family. That’s why these gorgeous fall temperatures are a great way to make Thanksgiving even better. We’re in the perfect temperature range where homeowners don’t need to have the AC or heater running, leaving HVAC technicians free to enjoy a little extra time. Take advantage of this lovely weather because, given Houston’s track record, it won’t last long!
Conclusion
As the holiday season begins, we hope you can take the time to be with your loved ones and enjoy Thanksgiving. From the Training Center of Air Conditioning & Heating to you, happy Thanksgiving and make sure to make this busy season an enjoyable one!
