5 Training Resources to Stay in the Know with HVAC News
February 10, 2023
It’s no secret that 2023 is bringing in sweeping regulation changes—changes that impact contractors’ day-to-day work and the equipment they sell and install.
Rheem knows it’s more important than ever to stay connected to HVAC news. And we’ve heard over the past year that not only are some contractors not up to speed with the state of the industry, but also those who are don’t always know where to go to learn more.
Which begs the question: What resources do contractors have to stay up to date with the latest HVAC news and products?
Jose De La Portilla, Senior Manager of Education & Training at Rheem, weighs in on the HVAC news and training resources available at your fingertips.
- Rheem-Led Training
Rheem’s hands-on, in-person technical trainings at its Innovation Learning Centers gives contractors an interactive learning experience that mimics working in the field. These specialized trainings offer instruction and know-how about the latest HVAC innovations so that contractors can feel confident on every job.
“We want to give contractors the technical training to show exactly how products work so there are no surprises in the field,” De La Portilla says.
- Distributor-Led Training
In addition to Rheem-led training, Rheem works with its distribution partners to provide hands-on training across the country. These trainings are led by industry experts and give contractors the opportunity to learn first-hand about products and business-building strategies closer to home.
- Rheem Academy
For those who want to learn at their own pace, Rheem Academy offers a wide variety of training materials that allows contractors to train online when, where and how they want it. As part of the Rheem Pro Partner program, you can log in and access an entire suite of business-related training online. Anything from sustainability to marketing and leadership—it’s all there.
“We also offer a really unique platform, Interplay Learning, a 3D simulation program that contractors can use,” De La Portilla says. “You can log onto your computer and simulate working with an air conditioner, taking the panels off, putting new tools on. Then you take that, and combine it with a virtual reality approach, like an Oculus, and suddenly you’re in a 3D world using your real hands to work on equipment.”
Interplay Learning helps make online training more interactive and hands-on despite being virtual. “It’s a really unique perspective, especially for young technicians who grew up gaming,” he says.
And as the industry shifts, grows and innovates, Rheem Academy is growing with it. “If they just log in and browse, they are going to find unlimited sources to continue their education,” De La Portilla says. “And it’s just going to keep growing each and every year. We have plans to add more and bring more benefits to contractor training, because we know that we need to develop contractors.”
- Equipment Manuals
As technology changes, so does HVAC equipment itself. Jose says Rheem’s equipment manuals are the best in the business—not only because they tell contractors how to use the equipment but also because they explain the all-important “why” behind it.
“A lot of times, installers and service technicians put the manuals aside,” De La Portilla says. “They need to pick them up because our manuals are some of the best education pieces. They are like textbooks—you just need to pick them up and read.”
- HVAC Know Zone
Rheem’s HVAC Know Zone is a one-stop shop for all the latest HVAC news topics, curated in one easy-to-access place. The Know Zone’s information library houses key know-how and education on a wide range of topics, from industry basics to tools contractors need to run a successful business.
Together, these resources can not only help contractors stay on top of HVAC news, industry changes and the latest innovations but also build a successful business for the long haul.
Vist Rheem.com/HVACKnowZone to get up to speed today or find a training near you.
