You do not need a license to buy HVAC equipment near you. Federal and state laws do not restrict the sale of heating and cooling units to the general public. However, you will need a federal EPA 608 certification to purchase or handle refrigerants.
Federal regulation does require an EPA certification to handle refrigerant but does not govern purchasing or installation. If you install your air conditioner simply have a certified professional complete the start up to comply with this law.
The Rule of 5000 Rule is simple: Multiply the cost of the needed repair by the age of your air conditioner. If the result is greater than 5000, AC replacement is generally the smarter choice. If it's less than 5000, a repair might still be worth the investment.
Johnstone Supply is wholesale only and does not sell directly to homeowners. Join hundreds of contractors who already save time and money by shopping with Johnstone Supply online.
Refrigerant can only be sold to technicians certified under the Section 608 or Section 609 technician certification programs, where individuals may only purchase refrigerant consistent with the appliances covered by their certification.
January 1, 2025: Manufacturers stopped producing new R-410A residential split systems and heat pumps. Equipment manufactured before this date can still be sold and installed. January 1, 2026: The original deadline for installing R-410A split systems manufactured before 2025.
R-22 refrigerant typically costs between $𝟗𝟎 and $𝟐𝟓𝟎 per pound. Because R-22 has been phased out, the supply is dwindling, which causes prices to continuously climb.
Yes, you can buy and install an air conditioner yourself, but it entirely depends on the type of unit. Portable, window, and "through-the-wall" units are plug-and-play. For central air or ductless mini-splits, professional installation is highly recommended unless you purchase specialized DIY systems.
Identification is required of all purchasers. Once you provide the information requested below, your local store will verify your information and enable your account, giving you access to the extensive selection of HVACR products available on our website and in your local store.
In short, the 20-degree rule of air conditioning states that you should always keep your AC unit at no more than 20 degrees lower than the outside temperature. It means that, if the outdoor conditions are at 95 degrees, you should set your thermostat at no less than 75 degrees.
The "two-foot rule" in HVAC is a duct design and installation guideline that requires a minimum of 24 inches of straight, uninterrupted space between branch take-offs (where air taps off the main trunk). It is also applied to spacing branches away from end caps, transitions, and the main plenum.
The best time to buy a furnace is during the off-season, specifically late spring (April-May) or early autumn (September-October), when HVAC companies are less busy and offer lower prices, rebates, or promotions. Purchasing in these shoulder seasons ensures faster installation times and better negotiating power compared to winter peak season.
Many Amish homes are built with plenty of windows to help circulate the air and bring in the cooler overnight temperatures. They open the windows on the top floors to help the heat escape while the family retreats to the lower grounds within their homes for comfort.
Installing an AC unit isn't just a technical job. It's a legal one, too. Most municipalities require permits for HVAC work, and failing to obtain them can result in fines or forced removal. You'll also need to follow strict building codes and EPA regulations, especially when handling refrigerants.
States that do not require an HVAC license include:
Florida: Florida has the highest projected number of job openings for HVAC technicians, with 4,430 projected positions in upcoming years. The large growth is likely due to the state's exposure to natural disasters like hurricanes, which can severely damage infrastructure.
However, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created regulations in 2010 where you cannot buy HVAC parts and equipment, like refrigerants, yourself unless you are a licensed technician. Read on to learn more.
We Do NOT Sell to the General Public. A valid contractor's license and proof of EPA certification are required to set-up an account.
To create a Keystone ID (the unified login used for Commonwealth of Pennsylvania state agencies like Keystone Login, PA CareerLink, and child support/welfare services), follow these steps:
Yes, you can legally buy and install a furnace yourself in most areas, provided you pull the necessary local permits. However, because DIY installation involves complex gas lines, high-voltage electricity, and venting, it is highly discouraged by professionals and carries significant risks of voiding manufacturer warranties.
The 3-minute rule is a simple but important guideline: wait at least three minutes after turning your air conditioner off before turning it back on. That short pause gives the refrigerant pressure in the system time to equalize.
Homeowners may do their own electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. If they do not have a Licensed Master Electrician/Plumber/Mechanic reviewing and taking responsibility for their work, they will need to submit applicable wiring, plumbing, or HVAC diagrams and details for review.
A 30-pound cylinder of R-22 refrigerant is generally worth between $500 and $1,200 to purchase wholesale, and up to $2,400 to $4,500 if bought directly from a service company during a home repair.
If you're interested in learning how to refill R22 in your air conditioner, it is important to know that this is not something a homeowner can do on their own. Due to complexity, safety concerns, training and licensing required we do not recommend doing this without having a trained professional onsite.
R22 refrigerant is illegal to import and manufacturer in the U.S. But it's not illegal for anyone to buy R22 freon. And it's not illegal to sell it IF you have a license. As long as the stocks last, you will be able to continue purchasing R22 from specialized dealers and form your air conditioning company.