Where to Get Training to Become an Appliance Repair Technician
Appliance repair remains a highly lucrative field. The industry continues to thrive as global supply chain disruptions prevent people from acquiring new appliances.
On average, appliance repair technicians earn more than any other comparable position.
Yet many professionals aren’t aware of the growing demand for appliance repair technicians—or they don’t know how to enter the market.
Use this guide to education opportunities, training, and certification for appliance repair to enhance, expand, and monetize your skillset.
What Is an Appliance Repair Technician?
Appliance repair technicians are trained professionals installing, maintaining, and repairing appliances in homes and commercial establishments.
Most techs in this industry specialize in one or multiple related appliances like washing machines, fridges, boilers, ovens, and more. Some specialize in specific brands.
All technicians engage in specific essential duties. These typically include:
- Diagnosing appliance problems or conducting inspections
- Obtaining replacement parts or outsourcing jobs
- Installing new parts
- Keeping detailed records of their work, bills, and invoices.
Why Become an Appliance Repair Technician?
According to available market statistics, appliance repair technicians make between $40,000 and $200,000 yearly, averaging $44,370/yr.
Consider becoming an appliance repair technician if you:
- Want to break into a new field
- Need a stable and relatively high income
- Already work in the realm of construction, engineering, or appliance installation.
- Want to enhance and expand your skill set?
Appliance Repair Technician Job Requirements
Appliance repair technicians typically do not need formal education, training, or accreditations.
However, setting yourself apart from others in an increasingly competitive market is essential. If you wish to work in a specialized field, such as refrigerator repair, you may need to obtain a Section 608 license through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Additionally, your training options will differ depending on your level of experience. If you are entering the field, taking a training program or course is best if you are entering the area. However, if you have experience, you can opt for an Associate’s Degree or jump right into taking an exam.
Although there are no formal requirements, it’s best to meet the following criteria.
Training & Education
Most employers prefer to see verifiable evidence of training.
To that end, your prospects will likely improve if you take a course or program—particularly one of those listed below.
Certifications & Degrees
Although there is no required certification for appliance repair, having a degree, diploma, or certification improves your credibility and enhances your value as an employee.
Many of the certifications listed below are affordable and easy to obtain.
Remember that some specialty areas will require you to obtain additional credentials to practice safely, so be sure to research the exact requirements of your desired field.
Appliance Repair Education, Training, & Certification
To become an appliance repair technician or improve your existing job prospects, you’ll need to obtain some certifications and training for appliance repair.
The National Appliance Service Technician Certification (NASTeC) and the Professional Service Association (PSA) certification are the most popular certification programs.
Although you can take plenty of online courses to prepare for these exams, it’s best to stick with the accredited course providers listed below, as their respective certification providers recommend them.
Online Courses for Appliance Repair (Beginner to Advanced)
If you already know how to repair select appliances, you can take any appliance technology exams listed below without investing in a course.
However, taking accredited appliance repair courses is best, as you will learn your craft and receive test preparation and exam materials.
Consider one of the classes for appliance repair below for the best results.
Penn Foster College Appliance Repair Training Program – Requires No Experience
Penn Foster is one of the most respected technical colleges in the country.
This school is unique because it allows you to pay a low flat rate per month or year and take as many courses as possible.
You can then obtain your accreditation through the Distance Education Accreditation Commission. This certificate is recognized internationally.
Coursework includes:
- Electricity and electronics
- Gas home appliances
- Microwaves
- Sealed refrigerators and freezers
Fred’s Appliance Repair Training – Requires Some Experience
Fred’s Appliance Repair Training is one of the most popular courses available.
This course is only a week long and is relatively affordable.
However, during this time, you will learn everything you need about appliance servicing within a given niche. You’ll need to choose an area of specialty. There are two options:
- Refrigerators and sealed systems
- Microwaves and electricity
Fred’s Appliance Repair Training is nationally recognized as a top training opportunity for repair techs. Additionally, the course will prepare you for the NASTeC certification—the industry standard in appliance repair accreditation.
Master Samurai Tech – Requires No Experience
Master Samurai Tech offers an easy and affordable online training program through their appliance repair school.
You will receive accreditation through the program, widely recognized as a legitimate appliance repair certification.
Through Master Samurai Tech, you can learn the following:
- Core appliance repair training
- Refrigerator repair
- Oven and range repair
Associate’s Degree in Appliance Repair – Requires Experience
If you are interested in continuing your education, you can also enroll at a college or university to obtain your Associate’s Degree in appliance repair.
To obtain a degree, you will likely need to invest up to two years at your chosen school.
This option is ideal for those with some experience who wish to continue learning or start their businesses.
A university can teach you specialized skills like sustainable repair practices, appliance diagnostics, natural gas systems, and more.
Certifications for Appliance Repair Technicians
Most programs and courses will prepare you to take one or more of the following exams.
In some cases, you can take the exam without having to invest in a course.
National Appliance Service Technician Certification (NASTeC) – Best for Little to No Experience
NASTeC is a national certification program that provides prospective appliance repair technicians with the accreditations they need to service home appliances.
Students earning their NASTeC certification do so by registering for the exam with the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians.
If you’re interested in becoming a home appliance repair technician, this is the best option since it is recognized across most states.
NASTeC is increasingly recognized internationally as the top standard in appliance repair credentials. Having a NASTeC certification allows you to:
This certification can allow you to:
- Demonstrate your expertise and knowledge
- Increase your value to your employer
- Differentiate yourself from non-accredited technicians
- Start or strengthen your own business
Professional Service Association Skill Certification (PSA)
The Professional Service Association is the appliance service industry’s leading certification and training provider.
This organization offers several exams and training options for technicians seeking to expand their credentials. The PSA is excellent for individuals of all skill levels and experience.
Through the PSA, you can become certified:
- Master Technician: This certification requires two years of experience and demonstrates your ability to repair appliances with expertise.
- Technician: This certification is for specific skill areas and requires two years of experience.
- Graduate Technician: This certification is for graduates of technical schools.
- Consumer Specialist: This certification demonstrates your ability to handle customer relations.
- Service Manager: This certification demonstrates your ability to manage employees and operate a business.
Specialty Exams
Depending on your area of expertise, you may need to pass a specialized exam to demonstrate your ability to handle dangerous or sensitive materials, conduct advanced diagnoses and repairs, or practice a niche skill.
For example, refrigerator repair technicians must pass an EPA-approved exam to demonstrate their ability to handle refrigerants safely.
NASTeC offers several specialty exams, but you can find additional options through most programs listed above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Consider the answers to our most frequently asked questions for more information.
How do I become an appliance repair technician?
To become a repair technician, you must have an understanding and some of the basic skills. While you may be able to repair appliances without credentials, you’ll also need to prove to prospective employers that you have the expertise.
Consider taking a course and obtaining certification to demonstrate your skills. Further, you should read some books on appliance repair and resale businesses to understand the field better.
Why should I learn appliance repair?
Consider learning appliance repair if you want a career change or wish to deepen your existing skills. The market continues to grow and expand, and current market metrics suggest that technicians will earn more over the years.
