Why Get an HVAC Certification in Ohio?
If you want to work as an HVAC contractor in Ohio, you can get a state issued certification. It is not mandatory for general HVAC technicians to obtain a certification in the state of Ohio however, commercial HVAC contractors must get a state issued certification.
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What Does an HVAC Certified Technician/Contractor Do?
Installing, maintaining and repairing various appliances is what HVAC contractors typically do. However, their duties vary depending upon their area of specialization. All HVAC contractors need to complete a certain level of formal education i.e., a certificate or an associate’s degree in a relevant area of HVAC. Formal education helps them understand all applicable rules and regulations of the state.
How to Become an HVAC Certified Technician/Contractor in Ohio?
All commercial HVAC technicians/contractors obtain their certifications through the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board (OCILB). To acquire a state issued certification, candidates need to complete a 4-step process.
- Meet the Education Requirements
To be eligible for the exam, all commercial HVAC contractors need to complete at least a 1-year certificate or a 2-year associate’s degree in a related field.
- Meet the Field Experience Requirements
Completing formal education alone is not enough for HVAC contractors to qualify for the state conducted certification exam. Therefore, they need to work in the field and fulfill the following requirements.
- Work for a total of 5 years as a trainee/apprentice under the supervision of a licensed HVAC contractor.
OR
- Have at least 3 years of HVAC business experience as a registered engineer.
- Meet all Other Requirements
Apart from the afore-mentioned requirements, HVAC contractors are also supposed to be:
- S. citizens/permanent residents who are at least 18 years old.
- Not convicted of a disqualifying offense as defined in S.B. 337.
- Holding a contractor liability coverage of at least $500,000.
- Take and Clear the Exam
All candidates who wish to take the certification exam must pay the exam registration fees and clear written as well as the practical examination to become certified.
How Much Can I Make with an HVAC Certification in Ohio?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics stated the annual mean salary of Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers for 2016 to 2018 as:
2016 | 2017 | 2018 | |
---|---|---|---|
Annual Mean Salary (OH) | $46,640 | $47,240 | $47,640 |
Annual Mean Salary (US) | $48,320 | $49,530 | $50,160 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
This income chart shows a slight increase in the annual mean salary of Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers in Ohio between 2016 and 2018.
Career Outlook of an HVAC Technician/Contractor
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected a 13% increase in the employment growth for Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers over the decade from 2018 to 2028. This employment growth rate is a lot higher than the average for other occupations.
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