In order to become a HVAC contractor you will need HVAC certification to work with air conditioners, heaters, etc. HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning. This contractor will specialize in the repair and maintenance of ventilation, heating, and cooling.
Different type of certifications
• Type 1-you would service minority appliances like window air conditioners and refrigerators
• Type 2-you would service appliances that are slightly complicated such as supermarket refrigerators, bigger air conditions, and heat pumps
• Type 3-you would service low pressure refrigerants
• Universal-you will be able to service all kinds of equipment
Types of hazards a HVAC contractor may face
• Before you consider becoming a HVAC contractor it is important that you know some of associated dangers with this field
• In this field you will work with electric circuits, heavy systems, and more
• You may also work with some cooling and ventilation systems that are old and unreliable
• When working with electricity you are vulnerable to burns, shocks, and more
• Installing heating and cooling systems in old repair sites, or some buildings can be very tedious
Tools a HVAC contractor may use
Because the job involves working with different large and small appliances, air conditioners, and heating systems the tools used will vary. Some of the common tools a HVAC contractor might use can include:
• Tap and die sets
• Pressure gauges
• Pipe cutters
• Torches
• Tape measures
You may also have to use complex tools for larger equipment that can include:
• Voltmeter
• Gas detector
• Combustion analyzer for larger heating units
• Soldering tools
Education and training to become a HVAC contractor
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Work in projects and take classes in math, electronics, physics, and mechanics
• The time it can take to complete your education and receive your certificate can range from six to twenty-four months
• During your education you will get acquainted with and learn about air cooling, machine design, temperature control, blueprint reading, and more
• While getting your education you will need to decide on your specialization such as working with just repair and maintenance, heating, installation, cooling, etc
• When specializing you may have to get an additional certification on the specialization selected.
Once you have completed your education you will be ready for your training programs, also referred to as an apprenticeship. The apprenticeship will help you combine your knowledge with practical demonstrations. Depending on the state, it may be required that you complete an apprenticeship before getting your certification. Certification may be all that is needed but some may require that you also pass an exam to get your license.