NATE, North American Technician Excellence Inc., is an independent, third-party certification body for HVAC/R technicians. NATE tests technicians; others train. Testing validates the technician's knowledge and a training program's instruction. NATE-approved testing organizations throughout the U.S. and Canada offer NATE tests. Candidates can earn installation and/or service certification in five specialty areas: air-conditioning, air distribution, heat pumps, gas heating & oil heating.
How does a technician become certified?
To become certified, a technician must pass both a Core and a Specialty exam. A passing score is 70%; 35 of 50 questions on a Core test and 70 of 100 Specialty test questions. Certification lasts for five years, after which a technician must re-certify.
Why take a test? Why support NATE?
Technicians taking the test can prove they're the best. Those who pass can wear the NATE patch, a symbol recognized by the industry and growing numbers of consumers as the mark of technician excellence and place the NATE decal on their truck.
Contractors support the test because certified technicians remain in the industry longer, do the job right the first time, and are believed to be more productive than non-certified ones. Only contractors employing NATE-certified technicians can be listed on NATE's Consumer-Contractor Connection web page, and can request a free contractor marketing kit with logos, ad slicks etc.
Manufacturers & distributors win with NATE because certification encourages proper installation and service of equipment by knowledgeable technicians, and this means fewer warranty returns and ultimately, a better bottom line.
Educators and trainers benefit from a uniform standard of knowledge that allows them to better prepare the technician workforce of tomorrow.
Utilities support NATE because properly trained and tested technicians are skilled in assuring the proper installation and servicing of sophisticated HVAC/R equipment that operates at peak efficiency and saves energy.
NATE assures consumers that a knowledgeable technician will service their home heating or cooling system. 87% of consumers prefer a certified technician to work on their home comfort system. That's powerful. Independent third party certification has great value and implies a good reputation to those looking for an HVAC/R contractor. NATE’s Consumer Contractor Connection business locator helps consumers identify contractors employing NATE-certified technicians.
Why should I support NATE certification?
Because it makes good business sense to do so. Certification matters – it ‘s a matter of dollars and sense. Certification is about professionalism, pride, and proficiency--and consumer trust because NATE-certified technicians know heating and cooling.
