Considering a Certified Ventilation Inspector (CVI) Certification? Here’s Everything You Need to Know!

Posted on 09/22/2020

As you probably know, NADCA offers two distinguished certifications: The Air Systems Cleaning Specialist (ASCS) Certification and the Certified Ventilation Inspector (CVI) Certification. While earning each certification, candidates engage in a rigorous course of study and complete a standardized certification exam that reflects the most current practices in the industry, and focuses on the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for inspecting, cleaning, and restoring HVAC systems.

NADCA’s Certified Ventilation Inspector (CVI) certification is recognized world-wide, and is an advanced certification developed to distinguish those industry professionals involved in the inspection of HVAC systems as it relates to system hygiene. Individuals with this advanced certification consistently demonstrate expert-level knowledge in the field, and are qualified to perform inspections of commercial HVAC systems. CVI certification is particularly valuable for those who prepare technical proposals and provide recommendations during inspections.

Through CVI training and certification, you’ll learn best practices for performing inspections, and develop an extensive understanding of HVAC components. Certification can benefit you in many ways, such as:

  • Increased compensation
  • Enhanced career mobility and marketability
  • Recognition by employers, customers, and industry peers

Plus, the demand for HVAC system inspection is consistently increasing, and many job specifications now require certifications in order to work on projects. Companies that have a CVI-certified technician on staff can attract more customers by offering inspection services and meeting bid specifications.

IMPORTANT: You MUST have an active ASCS certification in order to take the CVI exam; since the CVI is an advanced certification, individuals seeking certification must already have the basics in place!

To prepare for the CVI exam, NADCA suggests the following:

  1. Review the CVI Candidate’s Guide in its entirety. It includes an outline of the exam content, as well as a recommended reading list. CLICK HERE to download the FREE CVI Candidate’s Guide.
     
  2. Study and Train. While optional, there are a variety of recommended study materials and training opportunities available to help you prepare for the CVI exam, including classroom training and self-study materials. 

    The classroom course provides advanced training on HVAC systems and components, indoor air quality, risk management and standards, and incorporates the Environmental Protection Agency’s Indoor Air Quality Building Education and Assessment Model (I-BEAM), as well. The in-person training course not only provides a live instructor, but it also allows attendees to participate in relevant discussions throughout the training. And, if you attend an in-person training session, the exam is generally administered the following morning. 

    NOTE: With many testing centers currently closed and in-person events canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, NADCA offers online proctoring. To register for the exam with an online proctor, contact NADCA’s membership coordinator, at 856-437-4674.

    It’s important to note that to adequately prepare for the exam, the training course is designed to be used together with the other recommended materials mentioned above. The course alone isn’t enough preparation.

    NADCA also offers CVI on-demand training that is made up of six recorded webinar modules. Each module is one (1) continuing education credit (CEC), and provides renewal credits for your ASCS certification.

    Finally, if you have a group of at least 10 participants, consider hosting a custom training event. NADCA will send a certified instructor to your location to deliver the in-person training with the optional certification exam the following day. For more information on NADCA’s custom training, contact NADCA’s Assistant Executive Director, Caitlin McWilliams, at 856-642-4218.
     

  3. Register for the Exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and candidates are given 3-1/2 hours to complete the test. The CVI certification exam is available at testing centers across the globe, as well as at the NADCA Annual Meeting & Exposition and Fall Technical Conference.

Important to note, with many testing centers currently closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, NADCA offers online proctoring. To register for the exam with an online proctor, contact, NADCA’s membership coordinator, at 856-437-4674.

What to Expect After the Exam

Candidates are often curious about how long it will take to get exam results. The paper exam, which is administered at events, takes up to four weeks to process, and a pass/fail letter will be emailed to candidates. If a candidate fails, he/she will be given instructions on how to register for a retake. When taken at a testing center, score reports are available immediately following completion. If a candidate fails, NADCA staff will assist with scheduling a retake at a reduced rate.

Of course, maintaining your CVI is just as important as earning it! Once you pass the exam, you'll receive a CVI certificate in the mail, and the CVI credential is added to your name in the NADCA directory. NADCA’s CVI certification must be renewed every three years, by June 30 of the expiration year. NADCA offers an online renewal on our website, which is the only way to renew your CVI certification.

To learn more about all NADCA certifications, visit https://nadca.com/nadca-certifications.