How to become a heating and air conditioning technician in Florida
Discover the steps to becoming an HVAC technician in Florida, including required training and certifications to install and maintain climate control systems.
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With the proper licensing and experience, you can be part of Florida's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. Read on to learn what is involved and the steps you can take to become an HVAC technician.
What does a heating and air conditioning technician in Florida do?
An HVAC technician installs, repairs, and maintains heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for commercial and residential buildings. In addition to HVAC-specific skills, technicians should have excellent troubleshooting, problem-solving, time management, and interpersonal skills.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median annual salary for HVAC technicians in Florida was $52,220 in 2023.
Steps to an HVAC technician career in Florida
Here are four steps to consider when becoming a Florida HVAC technician.
Step 1: Earn a high school diploma
A high school diploma is typically the minimum requirement for most training programs and entry-level HVAC positions. Subjects like math, physics, and vocational education can help you build a strong foundation for an HVAC career.
Step 2: Obtain a license
To work as an HVAC technician in Florida, you must obtain a Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) license. There are three licensing options:
- Class A Certified Air-Conditioning Contractor: This license allows you to install, maintain, and repair heating and cooling systems of any size anywhere in the state.
- Class B Certified Air-Conditioning Contractor: This license is limited to systems with a heating capacity below 500,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) and cooling systems under 25 tons, but it still allows work statewide.
Step 3: Complete an apprenticeship
Apprenticeships provide hands-on training and real-world experience alongside qualified and experienced technicians. Over three to five years, apprentices learn system diagnostics, equipment repair, and safety protocols while earning a salary.
Whether you pursue this step during or after licensure, an apprenticeship offers the practical knowledge needed to transition into independent work.
Step 4: Get additional certifications
HVAC technicians must obtain the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 608 Certification and pass an exam to legally and safely handle refrigerants.
Other valuable certifications include the North American Technician Excellence (NATE), which validates your technical expertise, and the Refrigerating Engineers and Technicians Association (RETA), which showcases advanced knowledge in refrigeration systems. These certifications can improve employability and open doors to specialized and higher-paying roles.
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