Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) technicians, or HVAC techs, provide an invaluable service by installing and repairing climate control systems. From residential heating to refrigeration in grocery stores and medical labs, HVAC techs maintain critical systems. Legally qualifying for this work requires earning specific licensure, particularly if professionals wish to work as contractors and operate their own businesses.
Working as an HVAC apprentice in Alabama requires a certificate issued by the State of Alabama Board of Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Contractors. Those who wish to become contractors must earn state licensure for both general HVAC work and refrigerants. Additionally, professionals need to earn EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants in any capacity.
Pursuing an approved HVAC program can help aspiring technicians meet requirements for state licensure and prepare for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification exam. They should consider the benefits of training programs for HVAC in Mobile, AL, to prepare for the role and expand their career options.
What Does an HVAC Tech Do?
HVAC techs install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems, although their duties may vary by license. For example, working with refrigerants requires EPA Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Certification, commonly known as EPA Section 608 certification. Until they reach the level of contractor, HVAC techs work as part of a business or an organization and may have limited responsibilities unless supervised by a professional with a contractor’s license.
Common HVAC tech duties include installing systems, reading blueprints to understand building layouts and location of HVAC components, installing air ducts and fuel supply lines, and ensuring that the equipment meets building code regulations. Skilled trade professionals also perform equipment maintenance, troubleshooting issues that arise and working to prevent or minimize future problems.
Where Do HVAC Techs Work?
HVAC techs work in both residential facilities (homes, apartment complexes) and commercial and industrial locations (grocery stores, office buildings, factories). These locations may require strict refrigeration or temperature maintenance based on industry, and HVAC techs may work there as contractors or be hired for on-site, full-time work.
How to Become an HVAC Tech in Mobile, AL
A career in HVAC in Mobile, AL, first requires meeting basic education requirements. Progressing beyond the apprentice level requires further experience and training.
Education
Becoming an HVAC tech first requires earning a high school diploma or an equivalent, such as the General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Aspiring technicians can also benefit from an HVAC training program to prepare for the role, as it may be difficult to find work as an apprentice without practical training.
The duration of HVAC training programs may vary by program, with some taking as little as 48 weeks. They typically cover thermodynamics, refrigerants, residential air-conditioning, and different types of heating systems. These programs can also help prepare students for the EPA certification exam, which can help improve their career options.
Licensure and Certification
HVAC technicians in Alabama can begin work as apprentices, which requires registering with the state to receive an apprenticeship certificate. Apprentice registration includes filling out an application form, providing proof of citizenship or legal status, paying a small fee, and providing evidence of a licensed contractor who has agreed to supervise the apprenticeship.
To become an HVAC or a refrigeration contractor in Alabama requires earning licensure, and many technicians earn both. To become a licensed contractor requires meeting one of the following criteria:
Registration as an apprentice with the state for at least two years
At least 3,000 hours of supervised work in the relevant field
Proof of graduation from an approved HVAC or refrigeration program
After meeting one of these requirements, prospective contractors can sit for licensing exams. The HVAC exam can take up to five hours and covers 110 questions on subjects such as piping, equipment, systems, sizing, and labor laws. The refrigeration exam can take up to four hours and covers 90 questions on maintenance and troubleshooting, general knowledge, and safety and environmental concerns.
Professionals also need to earn EPA Section 608 certification to work with refrigerants.
Job Outlook for HVAC Techs in Alabama
The job outlook for HVAC techs in Alabama is promising, with strong growth expected in the region over the coming years. Positions for HVAC mechanics and installers in Alabama are expected to increase by 9.8% between 2022 and 2032, according to Projections Central.
New commercial and residential construction will be a key growth driver for HVAC tech careers, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). As HVAC technology evolves and becomes more energy efficient, demand for techs who can upgrade or replace older models is projected to also increase.
Advance Your Career as an HVAC Tech in Mobile, AL
HVAC training prepares technicians with hands-on experience and qualifies them for licensing exams. Anyone interested in a career in HVAC in Mobile, AL, should consider the benefits of the Fortis HVAC Training Program.
In just 48 weeks, Fortis prepares students with a curriculum including HVAC-R Controls, Commercial Refrigeration Concepts, HVAC System Performance, and HVAC Troubleshooting. Additionally, a dedicated course prepares students for the EPA certification exam.
Discover your potential in HVAC with Fortis and start your new career today.
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