HVAC R Programs in Fontana, California

Becoming an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Fontana, California

Why Become an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Fontana

Fontana, California, located in San Bernardino County, is a thriving city known for its rapid growth and vibrant community. With a population of over 200,000, Fontana offers a mix of suburban charm and urban convenience. The city is home to the Auto Club Speedway and the scenic Mary Vagle Nature Center, making it an attractive place to live and work.

The demand for HVAC-R (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration) technicians in Fontana is on the rise, driven by the city’s expanding residential and commercial sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for HVAC technicians in California is approximately $54,000, with a projected job growth of 4% from 2019 to 2029.

HVAC-R Training Programs in Fontana, California

Fontana offers several reputable HVAC-R training programs to help you kickstart your career. Here are three local schools providing comprehensive HVAC-R courses:

  1. Chaffey College
    • Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA (approximately 10 miles from Fontana)
    • Program: Chaffey College offers an HVAC-R program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. The curriculum covers essential topics such as refrigeration principles, electrical systems, and HVAC system design.
    • Website: Chaffey College HVAC-R Program
  2. San Bernardino Valley College
    • Location: San Bernardino, CA (approximately 15 miles from Fontana)
    • Program: San Bernardino Valley College provides an HVAC-R program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the HVAC industry. The program includes courses on heating systems, air conditioning, and refrigeration.
    • Website: San Bernardino Valley College HVAC-R Program
  3. UEI College
    • Location: Riverside, CA (approximately 20 miles from Fontana)
    • Program: UEI College offers an HVAC-R program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Students learn about HVAC system installation, maintenance, and repair.
    • Website: UEI College HVAC-R Program

Typical Program Curriculum

HVAC-R programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Here is an overview of what you can expect:

  • Core Courses:
    • Refrigeration Principles
    • Electrical Systems
    • Heating Systems
    • Air Conditioning Systems
    • HVAC System Design
    • Environmental and Safety Regulations
  • Hands-On Training:
    • Installation and Maintenance of HVAC Systems
    • Troubleshooting and Repair Techniques
    • Use of HVAC Tools and Equipment
  • Program Duration:
    • Most HVAC-R programs can be completed in 6 to 12 months, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
  • Specializations:
    • Some programs offer specializations in areas such as commercial refrigeration, residential HVAC systems, or energy management.

HVAC-R Employment Opportunities in Fontana

Fontana is home to several major HVAC-R companies and potential employers. Here are a few notable ones:

  1. Service Champions Heating & Air Conditioning
    • Location: Fontana, CA
    • Description: Service Champions is a leading HVAC service provider in Southern California, offering installation, maintenance, and repair services.
    • Website: Service Champions Careers
  2. Air One Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing
    • Location: Fontana, CA
    • Description: Air One provides comprehensive HVAC services, including installation, repair, and maintenance for residential and commercial clients.
    • Website: Air One Careers
  3. Fontana Heating & Air Conditioning
    • Location: Fontana, CA
    • Description: Fontana Heating & Air Conditioning specializes in HVAC system installation and repair, serving the local community with quality service.
    • Website: Fontana Heating & Air Conditioning Careers

HVAC-R Certification Requirements in California

To become an HVAC-R certified technician in Fontana, CA, you need to meet various requirements at the federal, state, county, and city levels:

Federal Requirements
EPA 608 Certification: Required to handle refrigerants. EPA 608 Certification
OSHA Certification: Recommended for safety training. OSHA Certification

State Requirements (California)
California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) License: Required for projects valued at $500 or more. CSLB License
California Air Resources Board (CARB) Certification: Required for working on refrigeration and air conditioning systems. CARB Certification

County Requirements (San Bernardino County)
San Bernardino County Business License: Required to operate a business. San Bernardino County Business License

City Requirements (Fontana, CA)
City of Fontana Business License: Required to operate a business. City of Fontana Business License

Certifications and Training
NATE Certification: Nationally recognized certification for HVAC technicians. NATE Certification
R-410A Certification: Required for working with R-410A refrigerant. R-410A Certification

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an HVAC-R technician in Fontana, California, is a rewarding and promising path. With the right training and certifications, you can join a growing industry with ample job opportunities. Contact a local school today to learn more about their HVAC-R programs and take the first step towards your new career. Don’t wait—start your journey to becoming an HVAC-R certified technician now!