Best HVAC Schools in South Carolina

If you want to work with your hands, solve problems, and have steady job opportunities, HVAC is a solid career choice. In South Carolina, demand for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration technicians continues to grow. Your first step is getting the right training.

HVAC training programs teach you how to install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems. They also cover safety rules, electrical basics, and refrigerant handling. Here's what you need to know to start in South Carolina.

HVAC Licensing in South Carolina

In South Carolina, the licensing requirements depend on the type of work you plan to do.

South Carolina Board for Contractors requires a Mechanical Contractor license for projects over ,000 that involve HVAC work. Smaller jobs may require a local business license.

To work as a technician under someone else's license, you usually don't need your own contractor license. However, EPA Section 608 Certification is required any time you handle refrigerants.

Steps to get licensed if you plan to run your own HVAC business:

1. Gain HVAC field experience or complete approved training.
2. Pass the South Carolina Mechanical Contractor trade exam.
3. Pass the business and law exam.
4. Show proof of financial responsibility and insurance.
5. Apply through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.

For EPA refrigerant certification, you can take the exam through many trade schools or approved testing centers.

Choosing the Right HVAC School

Not all HVAC programs are the same. When comparing schools in South Carolina, look for:

• EPA 608 exam prep included.
• Hands-on lab work, not just classroom instruction.
• Curriculum that covers gas, electric, and heat pump systems.
• Strong job placement support.
• Accreditation or state approval.

Training lengths and costs vary. Some programs take under a year, while associate degrees may take two years.

Best HVAC Schools in South Carolina

Below is a list of reputable schools in the state. Always confirm details directly with the school, as tuition, start dates, and admission rules can change.

1. Midlands Technical College - Columbia, SC

Offers an HVAC certificate and associate degree. Training includes troubleshooting, electrical controls, and refrigerant handling. Prepares students for entry-level positions and EPA certification.

2. Greenville Technical College - Greenville, SC

Provides hands-on training in residential and commercial HVAC systems. Offers both diploma and degree paths. Known for strong ties to local employers.

3. Trident Technical College - Charleston, SC

Covers both heating and refrigeration. Students train on modern equipment. Includes opportunities for work-based learning.

4. York Technical College - Rock Hill, SC

Offers an HVAC technician diploma and associate degree. Coursework includes system installation and repair, airflow analysis, and code compliance.

5. Horry-Georgetown Technical College - Conway, SC

Focuses on HVAC installation, maintenance, and energy efficiency practices. Includes training for EPA Section 608.

6. Piedmont Technical College - Greenwood, SC

Includes residential and light commercial HVAC systems. Students get safety training and field experience through internships.

What You'll Learn in an HVAC Program

Most HVAC training covers a mix of theory and hands-on skills:

• Electrical principles for HVAC systems
• Heating technologies: gas, oil, and electric
• Air conditioning systems and heat pumps
• Refrigeration cycles and compressor systems
• Airflow and duct design
• Installation and service procedures
• System troubleshooting and diagnostics
• Safety standards (including OSHA requirements)
• Refrigerant recovery, recycling, and handling

Some programs also introduce digital control systems, which are becoming more common in new installations.

Industry Certifications That Help Your Career

Beyond state licensing, industry certifications can boost your job prospects.

• EPA Section 608 - Mandatory for refrigerant handling.
• NATE (North American Technician Excellence) - Proves your technical competence to employers.
• HVAC Excellence Certification - Recognized by many contractors nationwide.

Many employers value these credentials, especially for higher-responsibility roles.

Career Path Options

With HVAC training, you can work in different areas of the trade:

• Residential service technician
• Commercial HVAC installer
• Refrigeration specialist
• Building maintenance technician
• Controls and automation tech

You can also grow into roles like service manager or start your own contracting business after meeting licensing requirements.

Next Steps

Here's how to start your HVAC career in South Carolina:

1. Pick a school from the list above.
2. Visit the campus to see the labs and equipment.
3. Talk to instructors about job placement rates.
4. Enroll in a program that fits your time and budget.
5. Earn your EPA 608 certification during your training.
6. Apply for entry-level jobs after graduation.

If you plan to run your own business, review South Carolina's contractor licensing rules early so you know the experience and testing requirements.

Bottom line: A good HVAC school can get you job-ready in under two years. Focus on hands-on training, certification preparation, and programs with solid employer connections. In South Carolina, choosing the right training is the first step toward a reliable, in-demand trade career.

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