You see it on our website: “NATE-certified” – but what exactly does that mean? And why is it important? Just as there are special certifications in other industries, there are also special certifications in the HVAC industry. Becoming a NATE-certified technician denotes a specific level of expertise and understanding in heating and cooling, which is important for our air conditioning customers in Glendale. JW Plumbing, Heating and Air believes in offering the highest level of service, which is why most of our technicians are NATE-certified.
What is NATE?
NATE stands for North American Technician Excellence. Established in 1997, NATE is the nation’s largest non-profit certification organization for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration technicians, and is the only technician certification organization governed, owned, operated, developed, and supported by the HVACR industry. NATE offers certification tests for installation and/or service in one or more specialty areas. The exams are created by nationwide industry experts.
To become NATE-certified, a technician must pass the core exam and a specialty exam of his/her choice. The core exam covers a candidate’s general knowledge of heating and cooling, construction knowledge, and HVAC/R-specific knowledge. Specialty exams cover a candidate’s knowledge of the installation, service maintenance, and/or repair of HVAC/R systems. NATE certifications last 2 years, and then the technician must take the tests again to be re-certified.
Why Is NATE Important?
While it is not necessary to be NATE-certified to work on HVAC systems, becoming certified means that a technician has met the highest standards as set by the industry, and can offer you, the customer, the highest level of service available. NATE tests are the hardest in the industry and the only ones the HVAC industry accepts as valid testing. NATE certification is voluntary, so technicians who are certified take the initiative on their own.
JW Plumbing, Heating and Air has offered quality service for 29 years, and part of this quality lies in the professionalism, knowledge, and expertise of our technicians. If you are experiencing issues with your air conditioning, are installing a new AC, or are looking to replace an old one, schedule your air conditioning services in Glendale with us today.