Residential Heating Technician - Career Certificate

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Bring warmth and comfort

Use science and skill to keep their furnace running well

January in Illinois�a good furnace makes all the difference. You will be the one who gets the heat flowing again and makes sure the carbon monoxide alarms stay quiet.

In this program you learn how different equipment operates. You study wiring diagrams, make sense of schematics and practice safety procedures. You use combustion analyzers and electrical test equipment in a residential setting to analyze failures and restore proper heating.

What can you do with a Residential Heating Technician Certificate?

The certificate in Residential Heating Technician prepares you to start work as an HVAC/R trainee.

With the fast-track program at ��, you can complete 2 certificates in 4 months. This gives you a wider range of marketable skills for your first job in HVAC/R.
Take it even further with a second level fast-track program. That�s one more semester for 2 additional certificates. After which you will only need a few more classes and general education courses to earn your Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.). All your certificate classes are stackable and can be applied toward your associate degree.
Choose the certificates that match your interests and goals:

See what students love about the HVAC/R engineering technology program at ��. Picture yourself here:

Highlights

Earn EPA 608 Certification

Take a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved certification test to earn Section 608 Technician Certification.
Metallica Scholarships

View the available heavy metal scholarships.
Stackable Credentials

Earn college credits and learn as you go with stackable credentials.
Apprenticeships for Experience

Learn and earn through structured on-the-job training.
Career Certificate

Gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills by earning a certificate in 1 year or less.
Program Length: 1 Year

Finish in 1 year as a part-time student.
WIOA Program

Become eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-awarded vouchers.

*Estimated cost is based on the minimum number of credit hours to complete the program. This estimate includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees for the 2026-2027 academic year, before financial aid, including grants, loans and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at ��. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.

Career Outlook

Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $42,266
  
  Median
  
  $71,951
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $121,484
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $20.31
  
  Median
  
  $34.58
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $58.40
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here�s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  23.49%
  
  Certificate
  
  68.08%
  
  Some college
  
  6.93%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  1.5%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Help installation, maintenance, and repair workers in maintenance, parts replacement, and repair of vehicles, industrial machinery, and electrical and electronic equipment. Perform duties such as furnishing tools, materials, and supplies to other workers; cleaning work area, machines, and tools; and holding materials or tools for other workers.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $29,246
  
  Median
  
  $34,225
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $55,545
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $14.06
  
  Median
  
  $16.45
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $26.70
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here�s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  34.03%
  
  Certificate
  
  23.48%
  
  Some college
  
  17.34%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  25.12%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  0.01%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

Need help getting started?

Ask us for help. Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) will help you:

complete the admission process
choose an academic program
enroll in first-semester classes
get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway to complete the certificate serves as a guide for students who are enrolled part time (registered in less than 12 credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more comprehensive list of course options and degree requirements, .

Icon Key

Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
HET 110	HET 110 Basic Refrigeration Systems Class Description This course introduces students to basic refrigeration theory and practice in Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR). The function and operational characteristics of the mechanical refrigeration system including condensers, evaporators, compressors, refrigerant metering devices, sustainable energy sources and refrigerants are covered. The use and operation of service manifolds, leak detection, system evacuation and charging, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills are covered. NOTE: The student will be required to purchase basic hand tools that will be used in this and other refrigeration and air conditioning courses.	4
HET 111	HET 111 HVACR Electricity I Class Description This course introduces students to basic AC and DC circuitry, the laws of electricity, wiring of basic HVACR equipment, and safety procedures with an emphasis placed on sustainable energy sources through the use of lectures, demonstrations, and lab experiences. The function and operational characteristics of various types of electric controls including thermostats, defrost controls, relays, and contactors are studied, along with capacitors, power distribution, motors, and protective devices. This course introduces the National Electrical Code, the use of meters, schematics, wiring diagrams, electrical troubleshooting, electrical service procedures and electrical test equipment. NOTE: Student will be required to purchase basic hand tools used in this and other HVACR courses.	4
HET 190	HET 190 EPA Certification Preparation Class Description This course introduces students to basic refrigeration, theory, and practice of the EPA mandated Section 608 Refrigeration Certification exam. The function and operational characteristics of the mechanical refrigeration system including condensers, evaporators, compressors, refrigerant metering devices, and sustainable energy sources refrigerants are covered, as well as material pertinent for students to pass the EPA exam. This course also introduces ozone depletion, the Clean Air Act, the Montreal Protocol, CFC and HCFC refrigerant replacements, recovery cylinders, shipping and transportation of refrigerants, system operational pressures, substitute refrigerant replacement, recharging techniques, refrigerant recovery and reclaiming, and basic system troubleshooting. This course reinforces the use and operation of service manifolds, leak detection, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills. NOTE: The student will be required to purchase basic hand tools that will be used in this and other refrigeration and air conditioning courses.	2

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 110
Course Title	HET 110 Basic Refrigeration Systems Class Description This course introduces students to basic refrigeration theory and practice in Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR). The function and operational characteristics of the mechanical refrigeration system including condensers, evaporators, compressors, refrigerant metering devices, sustainable energy sources and refrigerants are covered. The use and operation of service manifolds, leak detection, system evacuation and charging, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills are covered. NOTE: The student will be required to purchase basic hand tools that will be used in this and other refrigeration and air conditioning courses.
Credits	4

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 111
Course Title	HET 111 HVACR Electricity I Class Description This course introduces students to basic AC and DC circuitry, the laws of electricity, wiring of basic HVACR equipment, and safety procedures with an emphasis placed on sustainable energy sources through the use of lectures, demonstrations, and lab experiences. The function and operational characteristics of various types of electric controls including thermostats, defrost controls, relays, and contactors are studied, along with capacitors, power distribution, motors, and protective devices. This course introduces the National Electrical Code, the use of meters, schematics, wiring diagrams, electrical troubleshooting, electrical service procedures and electrical test equipment. NOTE: Student will be required to purchase basic hand tools used in this and other HVACR courses.
Credits	4

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 190
Course Title	HET 190 EPA Certification Preparation Class Description This course introduces students to basic refrigeration, theory, and practice of the EPA mandated Section 608 Refrigeration Certification exam. The function and operational characteristics of the mechanical refrigeration system including condensers, evaporators, compressors, refrigerant metering devices, and sustainable energy sources refrigerants are covered, as well as material pertinent for students to pass the EPA exam. This course also introduces ozone depletion, the Clean Air Act, the Montreal Protocol, CFC and HCFC refrigerant replacements, recovery cylinders, shipping and transportation of refrigerants, system operational pressures, substitute refrigerant replacement, recharging techniques, refrigerant recovery and reclaiming, and basic system troubleshooting. This course reinforces the use and operation of service manifolds, leak detection, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills. NOTE: The student will be required to purchase basic hand tools that will be used in this and other refrigeration and air conditioning courses.
Credits	2

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
HET 130	HET 130 Heating I Residential Appliances Class Description This course introduces students to the basic principles, practices, operations, service and installation of residential heating equipment through the use of lectures, demonstrations, and lab experiences. The function and operational characteristics of residential heating equipment, its wiring, and safety procedures are studied. Electric controls such as thermostats, defrost controls, relays, and contactors are studied, as well as capacitors, power distribution, motors, protective devices, system malfunction diagnosis, corrective procedures, and the refrigerants used in residential heating. This course also introduces a basic understanding of load calculations, the installation and service of residential heating appliances, ventilation requirements, and piping techniques. This course reinforces the use and operation of electrical and mechanical test equipment, wiring diagrams and schematics, service manifolds, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills. NOTE: Student will be required to purchase basic hand tools used in this and other HVACR courses.	4

Course Highlights
Course Code	HET 130
Course Title	HET 130 Heating I Residential Appliances Class Description This course introduces students to the basic principles, practices, operations, service and installation of residential heating equipment through the use of lectures, demonstrations, and lab experiences. The function and operational characteristics of residential heating equipment, its wiring, and safety procedures are studied. Electric controls such as thermostats, defrost controls, relays, and contactors are studied, as well as capacitors, power distribution, motors, protective devices, system malfunction diagnosis, corrective procedures, and the refrigerants used in residential heating. This course also introduces a basic understanding of load calculations, the installation and service of residential heating appliances, ventilation requirements, and piping techniques. This course reinforces the use and operation of electrical and mechanical test equipment, wiring diagrams and schematics, service manifolds, test equipment, flaring, soldering and brazing skills. NOTE: Student will be required to purchase basic hand tools used in this and other HVACR courses.
Credits	4

Total Credit Hours

14

HVAC/R Engineering Technology at ��

Get the bigger picture

This certificate is just one possible way to study HVAC/R Engineering Technology. Get the bigger picture�degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the HVAC/R Engineering Technology program overview

Apply now: It's easy and free

Complete the application form to begin your program.

After you apply, a Career and College Navigator (CCN) will reach out to answer your questions, guide your next steps and help you get enrolled. Explore steps to apply at ��.

Frequently asked questions

A Residential Heating Technician Certificate�takes 4-16 weeks and prepares you for employment as a residential heating trainee. Your classes will cover:
- thermodynamic principles
- properties of air
- combustion technology and chemistry
- commissioning procedures for gas-fired heating systems
- proper use of sophisticated analytical meters specific to the product of combustion
- properties of fuel gases
That moment when it all makes sense: Reading wiring diagrams is like learning a new language. We show you how to make sense of schematic diagrams and how to turn them into working systems.
Science makes it work: The thermodynamic principle of heat is something every HVAC tech needs to know. Your instructors will help you understand the physics, and apply those principles during installation, repair and maintenance.
Fast-track your career: If you want more job-ready skills faster, you can earn two certificates in one semester at ��.
Classes engage your brain, your hands and your muscle memory. You learn the theories and ideas first, then apply them in labs and team projects. In this way, you build confidence in your solutions and in your ability to do the work.

When your first boss tests to see if you know how to do the work on a residential HVAC/R system, you bring everything you learned in lectures and labs to show you know the how and why.
The Residential Heating Technician Certificate is 14 credit hours and takes an average of 1 year to complete when enrolled part time.
Most of your classmates (but not all) have been out of high school for a while. Some may be working, some may be changing careers and others are just starting out. In group projects and with the guidance of your instructors, you learn how to work with others on HVAC/R puzzles, just as you will on the job.
No�the hands-on labs are essential in every course. In-person classes keep your program on track. You also learn to interact in person with faculty and peers.
The cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours. It includes in-district tuition and fees. It does not factor in the cost of books and materials. It does not account for financial aid (grants, loans, scholarships) that you may receive.
View current tuition and fees
Some courses in this program are subject to variable tuition and course fees because they provide specialized experiences, instruction or technology/equipment.
View courses with variable tuition and fees
Many opportunities exist at �� to get financial aid. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

What students say about ��

Natasha Phillips
Graduate
�Heating, ventilation and air conditioning is a trade skill that�s always going to be needed, so I can have a stable career.�
Natasha studied HVAC/R Engineering Technology at ��. A workforce grant paid for her education so she can start a new career in a high-demand industry.
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Residential Heating Technician Certificate

Register for Summer and Fall 2026 classes

Bring warmth and comfort

Use science and skill to keep their furnace running well

What can you do with a Residential Heating Technician Certificate?

Fast-track your career with 2 certificates in 4 months for better job prospects

Highlights

Earn EPA 608 Certification

Metallica Scholarships

Stackable Credentials

Apprenticeships for Experience

Career Certificate

Program Length: 1 Year

WIOA Program

Career Outlook

Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Need help getting started?

Recommended Pathway

Icon Key

Semester 1 10 Credits

Semester 2 4 Credits

Total Credit Hours

HVAC/R Engineering Technology at ��������

Get the bigger picture

Apply now: It's easy and free

Frequently asked questions

What will I learn in the Residential Heating Technician Certificate program?

What are some of the best parts of this program?

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What students say about ��������

Natasha Phillips