HVAC Tech Responsibilties:
Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.
HVAC Tech Benefits:
HVAC techs can get lots of overtime work since many people require fixes and upgrades during the summer and winter months. The shortage of HVAC techs means there are more opportunities than ever in this space!
In Ohio, if you are an HVAC technician, there are different licensing requirements based on whether you work on residential properties or commercial buildings.
If you are working on residential properties, you do not need an Ohio HVAC license. However, if you work on commercial buildings, you must have a license from the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board.
In Ohio, there are several types of HVAC licenses available. Here is some information about each type:
It's important to note that HVAC and refrigeration differ in terms of coolant location, coolant circulation, and the mechanisms causing gases to vaporize.
If you are licensed in Ohio as an HVAC professional, you will enjoy higher hourly wages compared to those without a license.
Having an HVAC license increases your chances of being hired by customers. They are more likely to trust and prefer licensed professionals in Ohio.
In Ohio, it is only possible to hire other contractors as employees if you hold an HVAC license. This expands your potential to take on larger projects and grow your business.
To apply for the Ohio HVAC license examination, there is a current fee of $69, in addition to a $25 application fee.
The Ohio Department of Commerce is responsible for setting the requirements for obtaining an Ohio HVAC license.
Schooling is only necessary for those who want to become HVAC engineers.
Here are some highly-rated HVAC schools in Ohio:
Additional tools may be required for coursework, so make sure to check the specific requirements of each school. Some schools may also require a high school diploma or GED for admission.
Many training programs require in-person attendance, but online schools from other states may be an option for Ohio residents. Financing options may be available, including grants, loans, and payment plans. Contact the school's financial aid department for more information.
Prior to taking the exam, you must have at least 5 years of work experience as an HVAC technician. If you're already an HVAC engineer, 3 years of work experience will suffice. It is assumed that you have worked consistently without gaps in employment for the specified time period, and all work experience must be on jobs that required a permit.
The Ohio Department of Commerce is responsible for issuing the Ohio HVAC license. You can find more information on their website: Ohio Department of Commerce.
To obtain your license, you must pass a written examination. There are various study resources available, including books, seminars, and short study courses. The examination is timed, but it is an open-book test. You are allowed to use the following books:
You can also use tabs to mark specific sections in your books for easier access during the exam.
To renew your license, you must earn continuing education credits either on a yearly or three-year basis. For a one-year renewal, you need 4 hours of online credit. If you choose a three-year renewal, you will need 12 hours of online continuing education.
It takes five years of work experience before you are eligible to take the license exam. Formal training programs offered by technical schools and colleges range from 6 months to two years, but completing the five-year apprenticeship is still required.
See all jobs, apprenticeships, and trade schools
Want to get into this trade?
Find jobs near you