HVAC R Programs in Orlando, Florida
Becoming an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Orlando, Florida
Why Become an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Orlando
Orlando, Florida, often referred to as “The City Beautiful,” is a vibrant city known for its world-class attractions, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. As a growing metropolitan area, Orlando offers numerous opportunities for HVAC-R technicians due to its warm climate and expanding infrastructure. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for HVAC-R technicians in Florida is competitive, with a projected job growth rate of 4% from 2019 to 2029. This makes Orlando an excellent place to start your career in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration.
HVAC-R Training Programs in Orlando, Florida
If you’re looking to become an HVAC-R certified technician in Orlando, several local schools offer comprehensive programs to get you started:
- Orange Technical College – Mid Florida Campus
- Location: Pine Hills
- Program: HVAC/R Program
- Description: Offers a robust curriculum that includes hands-on training and theoretical knowledge. The program covers various aspects of HVAC-R systems, preparing students for certification exams.
- Valencia College
- Location: West Campus
- Program: Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Heating Technology
- Description: Valencia College provides a comprehensive program that includes both classroom instruction and practical experience. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for immediate employment and certification.
- Southern Technical College
- Location: South Orlando
- Program: HVAC Program
- Description: This program offers a mix of classroom learning and hands-on training. It covers essential topics such as system design, installation, and maintenance, preparing students for various certification exams.
Typical Program Curriculum
HVAC-R programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Here’s what you can expect:
- Core Courses: Basic refrigeration, air conditioning, heating systems, electrical fundamentals, and safety protocols.
- Specialized Training: Advanced refrigeration, heat pumps, commercial HVAC systems, and energy management.
- Hands-On Experience: Lab work and real-world training in installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting HVAC-R systems.
- Duration: Most programs can be completed in 6 months to 2 years, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
- Certifications: Many programs prepare students for certifications such as EPA 608, NATE, and R-410A.
HVAC-R Employment Opportunities in Orlando
Orlando is home to several major HVAC-R companies that offer promising employment opportunities:
- Del-Air Heating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
- Location: Sanford, FL (Greater Orlando Area)
- Website: Del-Air Careers
- Description: One of the largest HVAC-R companies in Florida, Del-Air offers a wide range of services and has numerous openings for certified technicians.
- Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
- Location: Pine Hills
- Website: Service Experts Careers
- Description: A well-established company providing HVAC-R services across Orlando. They offer competitive salaries and benefits for certified technicians.
- Frank Gay Services
- Location: South Orlando
- Website: Frank Gay Services Careers
- Description: Known for their comprehensive HVAC-R services, Frank Gay Services is always looking for skilled technicians to join their team.
HVAC-R Certification Requirements in Florida
To become an HVAC-R certified technician in Orlando, FL, you need to meet the requirements at the state, county, and city levels. Here are the relevant requirements, certifications, and licensing:
State Requirements
- Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR): www.myfloridalicense.com
- Requires a license to practice as an HVAC contractor in Florida
- Must pass a certification exam administered by the Florida Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB)
- Must have at least 4 years of experience in the trade, or a combination of education and experience
- Must complete a background check and obtain liability insurance
Certifications
- EPA 608 Technician Certification: www.epa.gov
- Required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to handle refrigerants
- Must pass a certification exam administered by an EPA-approved testing organization
- NATE Certification: www.natex.org
- Optional, but recommended by the National Association of Technician Excellence (NATE)
- Must pass a certification exam in one or more of the following areas: air conditioning, heat pumps, gas furnaces, oil furnaces, or hydronics
- R-410A Certification: www.escogroup.org
- Optional, but recommended by the ESCO Group
- Must pass a certification exam in R-410A refrigerant handling and safety procedures
County Requirements
- Orange County, FL: www.orangecountyfl.net
- Requires a business tax receipt and a certificate of competency to operate an HVAC business in Orange County
- Must meet the state’s licensing requirements and obtain liability insurance
City Requirements
- City of Orlando, FL: www.cityoforlando.net
- Requires a business tax receipt and a certificate of competency to operate an HVAC business in the City of Orlando
- Must meet the state’s licensing requirements and obtain liability insurance
Additional Resources
- Florida HVAC Association: www.floridahvac.com
- Provides industry information, training, and resources for HVAC professionals in Florida
- Orlando HVAC Association: www.orlandohvac.com
- Provides industry information, training, and resources for HVAC professionals in the Orlando area
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as an HVAC-R technician in Orlando, Florida, is a rewarding and promising path. With the right training and certifications, you can join a growing field that offers stability and excellent earning potential. Contact a local school today to learn more about their HVAC-R programs and take the first step towards your new career. Don’t wait—start your journey to becoming an HVAC-R certified technician now!