RightAir Solutions is a company that specialises in commercial air conditioning services.
To become licensed in heating and air conditioning in the UK, you typically need to complete relevant qualifications such as an NVQ or diploma, gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships or training schemes, and obtain certification from recognised bodies like City & Guilds or a CPD-accredited programme. Licensing often also involves registering with professional organisations or competent person schemes depending on your area of specialisation, whether domestic, commercial or automotive.
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. It includes systems used in homes, offices and industrial settings to regulate temperature, humidity and air quality. Licensing is important because it ensures you can install, maintain or repair systems like air conditioning units, heat pumps and ventilation systems safely and competently. It also improves your job prospects, client trust and legal compliance.
Pro Tip: When working toward HVAC certification, keep a log of hands-on experience. Recording the type of systems you’ve worked on and tasks completed helps during assessments and job interviews.
Anyone aged 16 or over with a basic level of education can begin training. There are no formal academic barriers to entry, though many employers prefer candidates with GCSEs in English, Maths or Science. A good understanding of mechanics, problem solving and attention to detail is helpful.
To work legally and competently in the heating and air conditioning field, you will need at least one of the following qualifications:
This qualification is ideal for beginners. It covers the installation of pipework systems, understanding drawings and specifications, and learning how to handle tools and materials safely.
Courses like those offered by Apex Learning provide advanced training in heating fundamentals, refrigeration, psychrometrics, ductwork and the legal standards required for professional practice. These courses often include modules on air conditioning systems, ventilation control and safety practices.
These include both Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas tailored for those aiming to work in industrial, commercial or domestic HVAC settings. They are widely recognised across the UK and are often required by employers.
While not compulsory, an HVAC apprenticeship gives you valuable on-the-job experience and speeds up your learning. Many apprenticeships combine classroom study with supervised work and are supported by organisations like City & Guilds. You might work on real installations, air conditioning servicing or ventilation repairs alongside experienced engineers.
Right Air Solutions is offering a half-price system inspection for new clients across London and the South East. Our certified engineers will check performance, identify early faults, and provide energy-saving advice to keep your air conditioning running smoothly all year round.
If you already have technical experience or a background in related fields like plumbing or electrical engineering, you might take a fast-track training course to get certified quicker. Online platforms such as Apex Learning offer self-paced Level 3 courses that suit career changers and upskillers.
Certifications are issued by approved bodies and demonstrate that you meet industry standards. Examples include:
CPD Accredited Certification (e.g., Apex Learning)
City & Guilds Diplomas (e.g., 6188 Level 2 and Level 3)
F-Gas Certification for those working with refrigerants
NVQs through recognised centres
Certification also enables you to register with organisations like Refcom or Gas Safe Register depending on your specialism.
A competent person scheme allows certified professionals to self-certify certain types of building work, avoiding the need for building regulations approval. HVAC engineers can join schemes like BESCA, NAPIT, Certsure and Blue Flame Certification. These schemes help professionals prove their skills and compliance with legal standards, while giving clients peace of mind.
To register, engineers must meet Minimum Technical Competence (MTC) requirements, which ensure they have the skills and knowledge necessary for work on air conditioning, ventilation and heating systems. For example, Annex 16a and 16b outline requirements for air conditioning installations, including halocarbon systems.
Joining a competent person scheme also opens access to work on a wider variety of jobs such as domestic ventilation, mechanical air handling and ductwork systems.
During your training, you will develop skills in:
Installing and servicing air conditioning units
Refrigeration and pressure testing
Diagnosing and repairing faults
Reading technical drawings
Following UK health and safety regulations
Working with components like compressors, ducting and chillers
These are all required for both residential and commercial work, including portable air conditioning units, wall mounted systems, ductless units and larger HVAC installations.
Most formal qualifications take between 6 months and 2 years depending on your pace, chosen pathway and prior experience. Apprenticeships can last between 18 months and 4 years. Fast-track online courses may be completed in a few weeks but typically include ongoing assessments and assignments.
Yes. Reputable providers like Apex Learning offer online courses accredited by CPD. These are useful for working individuals and career changers. Online learning covers theory modules and assessments, while practical skills may be developed through local workshops or mentorships.
After getting licensed, you can work as:
HVAC Engineer
Air Conditioning Installer
Ventilation Specialist
Refrigeration Technician
Vehicle Air Conditioning Technician
HVAC Project Manager
There is also growing demand in green energy and smart home air systems, which require additional training but offer good pay and stability.
Yes. To service car air conditioning systems legally in the UK, you must hold an F-Gas Certificate. Automotive air conditioning repair and recharge tasks require knowledge of vehicle systems, refrigerant gases and safety handling procedures. Courses specific to car systems are available and often include modules on car air conditioning recharge, servicing and regassing.
Earnings vary depending on experience, certification and specialism. Entry level HVAC engineers can earn from £21,000 to £27,000 per year. Experienced professionals can earn over £40,000, especially in London or if self-employed. Air conditioning installation and repair services are consistently in demand throughout the UK.
Typical tools include:
Refrigerant gauges and charging kits
Vacuum pumps
Leak detectors
Pipe cutters and benders
Pressure testers
Personal protective equipment
Suppliers like Greenmill Air Conditioning and Screwfix stock both basic and specialist tools needed for the job.
Always ensure your training is from an accredited provider and keep certifications up to date. Join a competent person scheme where relevant and follow legal requirements for refrigerant handling, safety inspections and waste disposal. Working with portable air conditioning units or installations in homes requires knowledge of the Building Regulations and health and safety guidelines.
Joining a scheme like BESCA or NAPIT allows you to self-certify work and stay compliant with Part L and Part F of the Building Regulations. Regular updates are issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and affect eligibility for registration and renewal.
Courses are available through:
Local colleges
Online training platforms
You can find a centre using the City & Guilds Centre Search Tool or visit providers for more guidance on available training and apprenticeships.
Contact us today on: 020 3886 2326 or email info@rightairsolutions.com for more information.
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RightAir Solutions
