When it comes to HVAC installation, it is essential to make sure that the technician or company you are working with is properly certified and licensed. In the United States, the requirements for HVAC contractors may differ from state to state. For instance, in Massachusetts, there are no state-issued licenses for HVAC contractors or technicians. However, the state does issue refrigeration licenses to work on systems with more than 10 tons of capacity.
In Alabama, contractors for heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems must be licensed by the Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have held a board-issued certificate of learning for the previous two years or show transcripts that demonstrate they have graduated from an approved course.
HVAC Excellence Certification
HVAC Excellence is another industry group that offers certifications to HVAC technicians. These certifications can be obtained at the professional level or at the specialized master's level.For professional-level certification, technicians must have two years of industry experience and pass a comprehensive exam in areas such as residential air conditioning or heat pumps. Specialized master's certification requires three years of field experience and passing of the professional level exam. In Vermont, there are no state HVAC licensing requirements to work as an HVAC contractor. However, it is important to check local requirements before beginning work in the state.
At a minimum, any HVAC technician or company you work with must be properly licensed by state or local agencies. Once the candidate passes the licensing exam and meets all other requirements, they are legally eligible to work as an HVAC technician.
Benefits of Obtaining an HVAC System Installer Certification
Obtaining an HVAC system installer certification will not only give you an advantage when applying for employment, but it will also increase your potential salary. In order to take the exam, you must have been licensed as an HVAC technician by profession for three years and have worked under the supervision of an expert licensed HVAC contractor.Additionally, HVAC technicians who regularly handle refrigerants for HVAC systems must be 608 certified by the Environmental Protection Agency. In California, while there is no requirement for HVAC technicians to be certified to work in the field, reputable HVAC firms will ensure that all of their technicians are properly certified. To obtain an HVAC mechanics license, applicants must have an HVAC certificate from an accredited school and pass an exam. Certification according to the ACCA QI standard can be obtained in the design of residential air conditioning systems or in those of light commercial air conditioning systems.
