Before you can become an HVAC contractor, you usually need to have on-the-job apprenticeship. How much experience you require varies depending on where you live, but typically it involves working for at least one to three years under a qualified licensed HVAC contractor. Your first step in this journey is the local or state licensing board, where you'll receive instruction on the legal requirements to become an HVAC contractor and find an apprenticeship program in your area. If you successfully completed the apprenticeship, you'll be able to take the licensing exam to become a licensed HVAC contractor yourself.
You may be wondering how do you get started as an HVAC contractor? There are actually a few ways to make this transition. You could start out as a quality inspector for HVAC conditioning companies. Qualifications typically include a degree in HVAC technology, although some HVAC contractors choose to get their education through related fields like heating, refrigeration, and electrical engineering. This kind of training will give you the hands-on ability necessary to be successful at quality assurance work for HVAC contractors.You can also go straight to school and get your HVAC license while still working as a quality inspector. Although you may have less time to complete your education, you'll learn everything you need to know about HVAC systems during your internship. When you complete your internship, you should be prepared to pass the licensure exam. To find out how to become licensed as an HVAC contractor, contact your state contractor's office. You'll be able to find them by name, but also by their address. You can call them or visit their offices.
The final way to get your HVAC license is to do it right. It doesn't matter if you went to school or simply worked as an HVAC contractor's assistant, if you do it right you can succeed. This involves studying the different types of codes and implementing them according to the law. If you get this certification, you'll be on your way to a good job and a good income. It'll also give you the training you'll need to write detailed HVAC diagnostics checks and reports.Most HVAC contractors won't worry about having to take any licensing exams once they get their licenses. As long as they follow the rules, keep up with safety regulations, and work within the guidelines of their states' licensing boards, they're in the clear. However, it's not uncommon for HVAC contractors to forget about some of the safety and environmental regulations set up by their states' licensing boards. It's up to you to make sure that your work practices are compliant, as well as checking to see if you have any complaints filed against you with your local HVAC contractors licensing board.
In the end, your success as an HVAC contractor depends on you and how much time you're willing to put into your career. If you're willing to put in a bit of time now to learn HVAC terminology, invest in an HVAC book, or even take an online HVAC class, you have an excellent chance of success. But remember, don't let your education go to waste. Use it to create good quality control checks in your own business and give other homeowners in your area the quality refrigerant and HVAC service that they deserve. That way, your reputation will shine and you'll be able to offer a great service to your customers.