HVAC Training 101: Four Types of Furnaces

Curious about what you’ll learn during HVAC training?

HVAC technicians are responsible for maintaining heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. In the chilly winter months, they will have more furnace repair and installation requests.

Furnace Types Mastered During HVAC Training

HVAC technicians will mostly work with these four kinds of furnaces:

1. Natural Gas Furnaces

A budget-friendly option. A thermostat attached to the furnace signals it to warm up during cold weather. This starts up a natural gas burner and makes the house warm up.

It’s recommended to have a qualified HVAC technician tune-up a natural gas furnace annually. These check-ups include rust inspection, inspecting for blocks in the vent system, and wire examination.

2. Oil Furnaces

A lower-cost alternative to gas furnaces. Oil furnaces operate similarly, but they turn the oil inside the furnace into a mist that burns inside a combustion chamber.

HVAC technicians must conduct regular maintenance. These appointments include cleaning the oil filter, checking the fuel tank, and cleaning soot buildup.

3. Propane Furnaces

These furnaces operate using propane, a byproduct of oil and gas. They’re used in areas where gas and oil aren’t easily accessible. Propane furnaces suck in nearby air, warm it up, and return it through a building’s air ducts.

Propane furnaces are complex and require advanced HVAC training to repair. Clients should schedule yearly maintenance check-ups. HVAC technicians check for leaks, conduct a combustion analysis, and inspect the igniter for wear.

4. Electric Furnaces

Electric furnaces are like propane furnaces in that they pull out surrounding air and warm it up. However, they use electricity instead of gas. This is an environmentally friendly option that avoids producing carbon monoxide.

During maintenance, HVAC technicians will inspect for dust and lint, fix faulty wiring, and look for damage.

Discover the World of HVAC Training

Want to learn how to repair furnaces? Discover furnace maintenance and more by enrolling in the Career College of Northern Nevada’s HVAC technician program.

HVAC careers are rewarding and essential for keeping buildings functioning. Gain the skills needed to enter the HVAC industry, including:

• Installing heaters, coolers, and motors
• Conducting routine repairs and maintenance
• Following blueprints

Ready to take the first steps towards an HVAC career? Call (775) 241-4445 to learn more about HVAC training in Nevada.