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 West Virginia, having an HVAC license is mandatory for anyone who wants to work in the HVAC field.
In West Virginia, there are two main types of HVAC licenses: HVAC technician certification and contractor license with an HVAC classification.
With an HVAC technician certification, you are allowed to install, maintain, alter, repair, or remodel an HVAC system or its components. However, if you wish to work on HVAC projects valued at more than $2,500, you must apply for a contractor license with an HVAC classification.
The average annual salary for an HVAC technician in West Virginia is just above $40,000. On the other hand, obtaining an HVAC contractor license opens up higher earning potential, with an average annual salary of about $65,000. To work with refrigerant in an HVAC unit, you will also need to be certified by the EPA.
If you require more information about HVAC contractor salaries in West Virginia, you can find detailed data here.
To learn more about EPA certification for handling refrigerant in HVAC systems, you can visit this website.
Benefits of Obtaining an HVAC License in West Virginia:
1. Industry Growth: The HVAC industry in West Virginia is experiencing significant growth. Employment opportunities within this field are expected to increase by nearly 15% in the next decade.
2. Energy Efficiency Demand: Homeowners in West Virginia are actively upgrading their properties with energy-efficient equipment. This trend creates a high demand for HVAC professionals who can install and maintain these systems.
3. Business Ownership Potential: By obtaining additional training and acquiring a contractor’s license, you can open your own HVAC business in West Virginia. This allows for greater control over your career and potential for increased earnings.
Overall, obtaining an HVAC license in West Virginia provides various opportunities for professional growth and financial success. Stay ahead in this thriving industry by gaining the necessary skills and certifications.
In West Virginia, the process for getting an HVAC certification involves an initial certification cost of $75. Additionally, there is an exam fee of $42.
If you are interested in becoming a licensed contractor, you will need to submit a contractor license application. This application requires a fee of $90, as well as a $42 fee for the exam.
Getting an HVAC license in West Virginia starts with submitting an application for an HVAC technician certification.
Although not necessary, you can earn an associate's or bachelor's degree to apply toward your HVAC technician certification in West Virginia. Many colleges offer one-year programs that require hands-on coursework. It is recommended to have your own set of HVAC tools as well.
The best schools to attend for HVAC training in West Virginia are West Virginia Northern Community College and West Virginia University. At West Virginia Northern Community College, you can earn an associate's degree in refrigeration, air conditioning, and heating. West Virginia University offers a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. In-state tuition for the community college is approximately $4,000 per year, while tuition for West Virginia University can be around $10,000 per year. Contact the schools to learn about financial aid options.
To qualify for an HVAC technician certification, you need to accumulate 2,000 hours of experience working with HVAC systems, along with an additional 6,000 hours of training. This experience can be gained through an apprenticeship or education.
An apprenticeship allows you to gain hands-on experience under the supervision of an HVAC technician. You can earn half of the required experience through an associate's or bachelor's degree in HVAC or mechanical engineering. Once you have obtained your technician certification, you can apply for an HVAC contractor's license.
The Department of Commerce Division of Labor in West Virginia administers both the HVAC technician certification and the HVAC contractor license.
To obtain an HVAC technician certification, you must pass a trade exam consisting of 84 questions to be completed within three hours. The passing score is 70% or higher. The exam covers topics such as load calculations, general regulations, controls, code requirements, ducting, insulating, safety, and piping.
In addition to the trade exam, there is also a business and law exam with 50 questions, which covers topics ranging from labor law and business organization to risk management and tax law. Recommended study materials include the 2012 International Mechanical Code and HVAC Basics for Contractors. Free online practice tests are also available here.
HVAC technician certifications and contractor licenses must be renewed annually. The renewal fee is $75, with an additional late fee of $25 for expired licenses.
It typically takes about four years of experience to qualify for an HVAC technician certification. After passing the required exams, it may take several weeks to receive your license.
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