HVAC R Programs in Tampa, Florida

Becoming an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Tampa, Florida

Why Become an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Tampa

Tampa, Florida, known for its beautiful waterfront and vibrant neighborhoods such as Ybor City and Hyde Park, offers a thriving environment for aspiring HVAC-R technicians. With a growing population and a booming real estate market, the demand for skilled HVAC-R professionals is on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVAC-R technicians earn an average salary of around $50,590 per year, with a projected job growth rate of 4% from 2019 to 2029. This makes Tampa an excellent place to start your career in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration.

HVAC-R Training Programs in Tampa, Florida

If you’re considering becoming an HVAC-R technician in Tampa, there are several local schools offering comprehensive training programs:

1. Hillsborough Community College (HCC)
   • Location: Ybor City
   • Program: HCC offers an HVAC-R program that includes both theoretical and hands-on training. The curriculum covers essential topics such as refrigeration principles, electrical systems, and HVAC system design. HCC HVAC-R Program
2. Erwin Technical College
   • Location: East Tampa
   • Program: Erwin Technical College provides a robust HVAC-R program designed to prepare students for immediate employment. The program includes courses on air conditioning, heating systems, and refrigeration. Erwin Technical College HVAC-R Program
3. Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA)
   • Location: North Tampa
   • Program: UMA offers an HVAC-R program that focuses on both residential and commercial HVAC systems. The program includes hands-on training and prepares students for various certification exams. UMA HVAC-R Program

Typical Program Curriculum

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

• Basic Refrigeration Principles: Understanding the fundamentals of refrigeration cycles and systems.
• Electrical Systems: Learning about electrical components and wiring used in HVAC-R systems.
• HVAC System Design: Designing and installing HVAC systems for residential and commercial buildings.
• Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Diagnosing and repairing common HVAC-R issues.
• EPA 608 Certification Preparation: Preparing for the EPA 608 certification exam, which is required for handling refrigerants.

Programs usually last between 6 months to 2 years, depending on whether you are pursuing a certificate or an associate degree. Some programs also offer specializations in areas such as commercial refrigeration or energy management.

HVAC-R Employment Opportunities in Tampa

Tampa boasts several major HVAC-R companies that offer employment opportunities for certified technicians:

1. Del-Air Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration
   • Location: Westshore
   • Description: Del-Air is one of the largest HVAC-R companies in Florida, providing services for both residential and commercial clients. Del-Air Careers
2. One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating
   • Location: South Tampa
   • Description: Known for their prompt service, One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating offers a range of HVAC-R services and has multiple job openings for technicians. One Hour Air Careers
3. Tampa Bay Trane
   • Location: East Tampa
   • Description: Specializing in commercial HVAC systems, Tampa Bay Trane offers various positions for skilled HVAC-R technicians. Tampa Bay Trane Careers

HVAC-R Certification Requirements in Florida

To become a certified HVAC-R technician in Tampa, FL, you need to meet requirements at the federal, state, county, and city levels:

Federal Requirements
– EPA 608 Certification: Required for handling refrigerants. Obtainable through organizations like the Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration Certification Board (ACHR) or the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society (RSES).

State Requirements
– Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) License: Requires passing a written exam and having a minimum of 2 years of experience or completing an apprenticeship program. Florida DBPR License Requirements
– Florida HVAC-R Certification: Offered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Florida HVAC-R Certification Program

County and City Requirements
– Hillsborough County License: Requires passing a written exam and having liability insurance. Hillsborough County License Requirements
– City of Tampa Permit: Required to work within city limits. City of Tampa Permit Requirements

Certifications and Training
– NATE Certification: Nationally recognized certification for HVAC-R technicians. NATE Certification
– R-410A Certification: Required for working with R-410A refrigerant. R-410A Certification
– OSHA Certification: Recommended for safety training. OSHA Certification

Get Started Today

Becoming an HVAC-R certified technician in Tampa, Florida, is a rewarding career choice with ample opportunities for growth. With the right training and certifications, you can join the ranks of skilled professionals who keep Tampa’s homes and businesses comfortable year-round. Contact a local school today to start your journey in the HVAC-R field. Take the first step towards a fulfilling career in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration!