EPA Section 608 Certification Some HVAC certifications are based on specific sections of the Clean Air Act, such as Section 608. The good news is that Section 608 certification never expires. However, if you lose your certification card, you may have to retake the test depending on your situation.
If a technician was certified anytime since 1991, there is no required re-certification. Their certification is good for life.
Is a license required to perform HVAC work in Arkansas? Yes. To be an HVAC Contractor in Arkansas, you must be licensed. Entry-level HVAC technicians do not need a license but must register with the state and work under the supervision of a licensed contractor.
EPA 608 certification is typically valid for life, but EPA regulations require technicians to pass a certification exam every five years to maintain their active status. EPA 609 certification for MVAC systems also requires a certification exam every two years for renewal.
North American Technician Excellence (NATE) Certification
NATE certification is highly respected in the HVAC industry, indicating excellence and proficiency in specific areas of HVAC systems.
For many in the HVAC community, an EPA 608 certification is a near necessity. The equipment being worked on and materials being handled are well regulated and governed by the Environmental Protection Agency. But it's not merely for HVAC technicians.
The short answer is yes. With the right training, experience, and communication skills it's very possible to make over $100,000 per year as an HVAC tech. In 2024, the HVAC technician salary range for the HVAC trade was between $30 per hour, and $43 per hour depending upon certification and HVAC training.
If your goal is to make six figures while working as an HVAC tech, it is definitely within reach.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) is a complex and multifaceted field that can be challenging for beginners to learn. However, with dedication, persistence, and the right resources, anyone can develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this industry.
While the state of California does not require that HVAC technicians be certified to work in the field, reputable HVAC firms will ensure that all their technicians are properly certified. In addition. In California, a C-20 HVAC License is required for performing any HVAC jobs over $500, but not for smaller ones.
HVAC techs must have at least one of four types of EPA certification, depending on what type of equipment they work on. After certification, HVAC techs can only release tiny amounts of harmful refrigerants into the environment during the course of their work.
It is in this context that departments are advised to at least accept certified copies of documents submitted with an application for employment that are up to six (6) months old, in those cases where the document certified does not have an expiry date within the six-month period.
EPA 609 MVAC certification is required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which is designed to ensure that a majority of mobile refrigerant and automotive technicians — working with refrigerants and vehicle-based air-conditioning systems — are properly trained and qualified to handle these substances safely ...
HVAC Technicians need to be able to do some basic calculations to determine the amount of refrigerant to use in a system, translate a blueprint design, and understand the amount of electricity that a system needs. You don't have to be a mathematician, but you should feel comfortable with basic algebra.
Both HVAC technicians and electricians earn similar compensation, though the average annual salary for electricians is about $5,000 higher than that of HVAC techs.
While both positions require technical knowledge and physical stamina, the technician's role involves advanced problem-solving skills and the capability to handle emergency repairs and maintenance. Consequently, HVAC technicians often earn a higher salary compared to HVAC installers.
If you're exploring new career options, this year may be the ideal time to pursue a job as an HVAC technician. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting the HVAC job outlook expected to grow 6 percent by 2032, it's never been a better time to consider entering this growing field.
The average cost of an HVAC service call is about $100 to $250, depending on the problem. The total hourly rate for an HVAC technician ranges from $65 to $150+ per hour, with additional parts costing anywhere from $40 to over $1000.
The thing with the HVAC industry is, safety always comes first. Your local tech wants to take care of you, but working on electrical equipment in the rain can be dangerous. It can not only endanger the safety of your technician, but it can also cause damage to your system down the road.
How much does the EPA 608 certification cost? The EPA 608 class and test is $324.
For those who do not study, passing the EPA 608 exam could prove challenging. Technicians who prepare and study will likely pass the exam without too much worry. Review your study manual and memorize the proper information. This will help to reinforce your in-field services later on.
Before you can access the exam, this money order or personal check must be sent to Mainstream Engineering for processing. This is an open book exam, you may use the manual freely, but you may not receive help from any other person.
Master Specialist Hands-On
Master Specialist certifications are the highest credential available to technicians through HVAC Excellence.