NATE Certification: What Does It Entail?

North American Technician Excellence is a nonprofit trade organization for the HVAC and refrigeration industries. Participation with NATE is optional, but most companies and technicians choose it because it lets them demonstrate to clients a high level of technical expertise. Let us consider what obtaining a NATE certification entails and why you should value it in the technicians you hire.

Education Hours

All Temp Co., Inc Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical has more than 30 years of heating and cooling experience in Harrisburg. That experience means something. While NATE does not require any particular education or on-the-job training, it fashions its tests in such a way that it ensures proper skill and experience. NATE does, however, offer education. Many technicians will take advantage of this for the added experience and as a way to add new skills.

Technician-Specific Specializations

Each NATE certification can encompass different KATEs. KATE stands for Knowledge Area of Expertise. A technician must choose at least one specialization to be certified. Technicians can also choose multiple specializations and be tested for each. Those skills are reflected on the certificate.

Written Exams to Test Applicant Knowledge

The basic NATE certification, as well as the chosen specializations, has a test that the applicant must complete and score at a certain level. These tests include real-world scenarios that require an applicant to demonstrate not just knowledge but practical use of that information.

Ongoing Education for NATE Technicians

The HVAC industry is constantly evolving. NATE certification is not indefinite, which is a big reason All Temp Co., Inc Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical values NATE-certified technicians so highly. In fact, certification lasts only five years. At that point, a tech must retake the test or complete 60 hours of education for each specialization for which he or she is certified.

Hire NATE-Certified Technicians Today

All Temp Co., Inc Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical is proud to be among the leading heating and cooling companies in Harrisburg. Our company also offers a broad range of ancillary services that include home energy audits, insulation, air purifiers, humidifiers, dehumidifiers and much more. Contact us at your convenience to learn more.