HVAC R Programs in Denver, Colorado

Becoming an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Denver, Colorado

Why Become an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Denver

Denver, Colorado, known as the Mile-High City, offers a vibrant lifestyle with a booming job market, making it an excellent place to start your career as an HVAC-R technician. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, such as LoDo (Lower Downtown) and Capitol Hill, provide a mix of residential and commercial opportunities for HVAC-R professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for HVAC-R technicians in Denver is competitive, and the job market is expected to grow by 4% from 2022 to 2032.

HVAC-R Training Programs in Denver, Colorado

Denver offers several reputable schools where you can pursue HVAC-R certification. Here are three top options:

  1. Emily Griffith Technical College
    • Location: Downtown Denver
    • Program: Emily Griffith Technical College offers a comprehensive HVAC-R program that includes hands-on training and theoretical coursework. The program covers essential topics such as refrigeration, heating systems, and air conditioning.
    • HVAC-R Program at Emily Griffith Technical College
  2. Red Rocks Community College
    • Location: Lakewood (15 miles from Downtown Denver)
    • Program: Red Rocks Community College provides an HVAC-R program that focuses on both residential and commercial systems. The curriculum includes courses in system design, installation, and maintenance.
    • HVAC-R Program at Red Rocks Community College
  3. Pickens Technical College
    • Location: Aurora (10 miles from Downtown Denver)
    • Program: Pickens Technical College offers an HVAC-R program designed to prepare students for immediate employment. The program includes training in diagnostics, repair, and system optimization.
    • HVAC-R Program at Pickens Technical College

Typical Program Curriculum

HVAC-R programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Courses often cover:

  • Basic Electricity: Understanding electrical principles and safety.
  • Refrigeration: Learning about refrigeration cycles, components, and troubleshooting.
  • Heating Systems: Studying various heating systems, including gas, oil, and electric.
  • Air Conditioning: Covering the principles of air conditioning and system maintenance.
  • System Design: Learning how to design HVAC-R systems for different applications.
  • EPA 608 Certification Preparation: Preparing for the EPA 608 certification exam.

Programs usually last between 6 months to 2 years, depending on whether you pursue a certificate or an associate degree. Some schools also offer specializations in areas like commercial refrigeration or advanced system diagnostics.

HVAC-R Employment Opportunities in Denver

Denver is home to several major HVAC-R companies that offer excellent employment opportunities:

  1. Applewood Plumbing Heating & Electric
  2. Plumbline Services
    • Location: Centennial (South Denver)
    • Description: Plumbline Services provides comprehensive HVAC-R services and is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction.
    • Plumbline Services Careers
  3. MileHi HVAC
    • Location: Lakewood (West Denver)
    • Description: MileHi HVAC specializes in both residential and commercial HVAC-R systems, offering a wide range of services.
    • MileHi HVAC Careers

HVAC-R Certification Requirements in Colorado

To become an HVAC-R certified technician in Denver, CO, you’ll need to meet the requirements at the federal, state, and local levels. Here’s a breakdown of the necessary certifications, licenses, and requirements:

Federal Requirements

  • EPA 608 Certification: Required for technicians who handle refrigerants. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers four types of certifications:

State of Colorado Requirements

  • Colorado HVAC License: Required for HVAC technicians who work on systems over 10 tons. The Colorado Office of Licensing (OOL) issues licenses in three categories:

City of Denver Requirements

  • Denver HVAC Permit: Required for HVAC technicians who work on systems in the City and County of Denver. The City of Denver’s Department of Excise and Licenses issues permits in two categories:

Certifications and Training

  • NATE Certification: While not required, North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification is highly recommended. NATE offers certifications in various HVAC-R areas, including air conditioning, heat pumps, and gas furnaces.
    More information on NATE Certification
  • R-410A Certification: Some manufacturers require technicians to be certified to work with R-410A refrigerant.
    More information on R-410A Certification

Insurance and Bonding

  • Liability Insurance: While not required, having liability insurance is highly recommended to protect yourself and your business in case of accidents or damages.
  • Bonding: Some employers or clients may require technicians to be bonded, which provides an additional layer of protection against fraud or theft.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an HVAC-R technician in Denver, Colorado, is a rewarding decision with numerous opportunities for growth. Contact one of the local schools today to learn more about their HVAC-R programs and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. Your future as an HVAC-R technician starts now!

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