Controlling the temperature and maintaining air quality is challenging for every HVAC technician. As a technician, you must follow procedures, and there's no room for mistakes.
Many skilled HVAC technicians claim to be HVAC experts, but obtaining a license in Pennsylvania will surely make you the top choice.
Your business will not reach its full potential without a Pennsylvania HVAC license. But don't you worry! I am here to help you build a successful HVAC business in Pennsylvania. I will share all the procedures and resources you need to follow and know.
Here's everything you need, and let's go straight to the point.
Do you need an HVAC License in Pennsylvania? Here's the answer.
Becoming a technician doesn't need an HVAC license in Pennsylvania. However, suppose you are an HVAC or refrigeration technician. In that case, you need to apply for a local certification as one of the tools necessary to get the permit to handle specific HVAC projects.
Did you know?
There's a rising demand for skilled HVAC technicians in Pennsylvania. If you are an experienced HVAC technician, you have a huge chance of getting competitive salaries alongside many opportunities that will see you advance your career. Thanks to the tremendous growth in the HVAC Industry around Pennsylvania.
What are the different types of Pennsylvania HVAC Certifications?
There are various types of local HVAC licenses:
- Home Improvement Contractor
- Grade B Refrigeration Engineer
- HVAC Contractor
You can obtain refrigeration and HVAC licenses at the local level. Consult your area licensing board to learn more about the refrigeration and HVAC licensing requirements.
Home Improvement Contractor License
This license allows you to handle projects that meet the Pennsylvania code requirements. The license also allows you to obtain the required local job permits and manage HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance of the work sites.
License Requirements:
- You must be 18 years old and above.
- Have a 2-4 year college degree or completed an equivalent HVAC refrigeration training program.
- You must possess at least 2-year experience of having handled home improvement jobs.
- You have a valid Pennsylvania ID card or driver's license.
Grade B Refrigeration Engineer License
This license allows you to handle various projects such as installing, maintaining, and repairing refrigerated ice machines and HVAC and storage units.
License Requirements:
- You must be 18 years old and above
- Either has a diploma from high school or a General Educational Development (GED) or its equivalent.
- You must excel in the International Code tests.
- You must complete at least 100-hour coursework in the classroom.
- You must possess a job experience of at least 2,000 hours working in the refrigeration field.
HVAC Contractor License
This license allows you to install, maintain, and repair air conditioning, ventilation, and heating units for commercial and residential properties.
License Requirements:
- You must be 18 years old and above.
- You must pass the International Code Council Certification exam.
- You have general liability insurance.
- Have at least 4-year experience in the HVAC industry
- You possess a high school diploma or an equivalent General Educational Development (GED)
Are there benefits of acquiring an HVAC License in Pennsylvania?
Training on HVAC and refrigeration is straightforward. In most cases, it takes less than a year for technicians to earn their licenses. HVAC technicians in Pennsylvania earn an average hourly salary of $22.22 - $46.22. One of the benefits of acquiring an HVAC License in Pennsylvania is the ability to earn already while undergoing training. HVAC apprentices earn while learning the refrigeration and HVAC trade. Most apprentice jobs have vacation salaries, health insurance, and sick pay. The license also equips you with skills in establishing things to consider when you want to hire good technicians.
Refrigeration and HVAC technicians handle different projects. If you plan to handle various HVAC jobs, obtaining a career as a refrigeration or HVAC technician is a wise career move. Expect that once you start working as an HVAC technician, you are free to move around different working sites.
Another benefit to consider is the advantage of working in various working sites. Refrigeration and HVAC license holders can work on job sites, hospitals, entertainment venues, public schools, large corporations, colleges, and restaurants. Excellent HVAC apps update you with the latest news about the industry. You can, therefore, stay safe, knowing that your HVAC business is quickly adapting to the modern digital needs of the industry.
These apps will also help you create a catchy slogan if you want to build your own HVAC business. You also get the skills to operate an organized truck like a skilled technician.
How Do You Acquire an HVAC License in Pennsylvania?
Now that you know what you'll get if you're a licensed HVAC Technician in Pennsylvania, it's time to grab that license! Getting an HVAC license isn't a lengthy process. You need to contact your area licensing board to know about the issuance of the licenses and certifications. To be a licensed refrigeration or HVAC technician, you need to think of these two things: On-site experience and Educational Training.
You can also enroll in an HVAC apprenticeship program in Pennsylvania, or my recommendation is to apply for an entry-level refrigeration/HVAC technician job to earn the required experience.
Looking for the best schools in Pennsylvania that offer HVAC training programs?
Here you go:
- The HVAC School
- Harrisburg Area Community College
- Pennsylvania College of Technology
HVAC Programs offered:
What are the tuition costs for HVAC Programs?
The costs of these HVAC programs in Pennsylvania vary. You can pay a tuition fee of up to $10,000. Online and classroom course options are also available. There are some accredited colleges, trade schools, and universities that offer financial assistance for students.
What are the requirements for HVAC Programs?
To enroll in an HVAC program, you must:
- Be aged at least 18 years.
- Possess a high school diploma or an equivalent General Education Development (GED).
- Excel in a general aptitude exam.
- Have a Pennsylvania Identity card, social security card, or driver's license.
- Have the capacity to perform an HVAC job.
On-The-Site Experience
The following are the needed on-the-site experience requirements:
- You can read blueprints.
- You can install, replace and repair ventilation, heating, and air conditioning units.
- Willing to work for at least 40 hours per week.
- You can do HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair work under the supervision and direction of a professional HVAC supervisor.
- You can perform math calculations on various refrigeration and HVAC projects.
- Ability to learn the Pennsylvania HVAC codes and apply them accordingly.
Licensing examination and HVAC Certification requirements
Here's the list of requirements for the HVAC Licensing examination and certification:
- Pay an examination fee of $150 per test.
- You must hit the pass mark of 70% in the exam.
- ICC can only administer the exams
- Complete the International Code Council exam application
How to prepare yourself for the Pennsylvania HVAC Exams?
I wish you all the best for your Pennsylvania HVAC Exams, and I want you to acquire this license soon. Here are my tips that can help you pass the HVAC Exams:
- Start preparing for the HVAC examination six weeks before the exam date.
- Study with a colleague or partner.
- Watch refrigeration and HVAC installation and maintenance videos
- Attend tutoring sessions or hire a private tutor.
- Seek help from a refrigeration or HVAC expert.
- Read the HVAC study guides and examination resources.
Here are the exam resources that you can use:
How often do I need to renew my HVAC License in Pennsylvania?
You need to renew your HVAC License annually. The license renewal cost varies for every city and municipality's requirements. If you are unsure about this matter, you can contact your local HVAC licensing board and inquire about the cost of your license renewal.
Need more tips?
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