HVAC R Programs in Spokane Valley, Washington

Becoming an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Spokane Valley, Washington

Why Become an HVAC-R Certified Technician in Spokane Valley

Spokane Valley, Washington, offers a vibrant community and a growing job market, making it an ideal place to start a career as an HVAC-R technician. Located in the heart of the Inland Northwest, Spokane Valley is known for its scenic beauty and thriving local economy. The city is home to numerous neighborhoods such as Greenacres and Opportunity, providing a diverse range of residential and commercial opportunities for HVAC-R professionals.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for HVAC-R technicians in Washington is competitive, and the job outlook is promising with a projected growth rate of 4% from 2019 to 2029. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for energy-efficient systems and the need for skilled technicians to install and maintain them.

HVAC-R Training Programs in Spokane Valley, Washington

If you’re looking to become an HVAC-R certified technician in Spokane Valley, you’ll find several reputable schools offering comprehensive training programs:

1. Spokane Community College (SCC)
   • Location: Spokane, WA (approximately 10 miles from Spokane Valley)
   • Program: HVAC-R Program
   • Description: SCC offers a robust HVAC-R program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. The curriculum covers essential topics such as refrigeration, heating systems, and air conditioning.
2. Northwest HVAC/R Association & Training Center
   • Location: Spokane, WA (approximately 8 miles from Spokane Valley)
   • Program: HVAC-R Training
   • Description: This specialized training center provides a comprehensive HVAC-R program designed to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce. The program includes courses on system design, installation, and maintenance.
3. Charter College
   • Location: Spokane, WA (approximately 12 miles from Spokane Valley)
   • Program: HVAC-R Program
   • Description: Charter College offers a focused HVAC-R program that combines online coursework with hands-on lab experiences. The program is designed to be completed in a shorter time frame, making it ideal for those looking to enter the workforce quickly.

Typical Program Curriculum

HVAC-R programs typically include a mix of classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students can expect to cover a variety of topics, including:

• Basic Electricity: Understanding electrical principles and components used in HVAC-R systems.
• Refrigeration: Learning about refrigeration cycles, components, and troubleshooting techniques.
• Heating Systems: Studying different types of heating systems, including gas, oil, and electric furnaces.
• Air Conditioning: Exploring air conditioning systems, including installation, maintenance, and repair.
• System Design: Gaining knowledge in designing HVAC-R systems for residential and commercial applications.
• EPA Certification Preparation: Preparing for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Section 608 certification exam.

Programs typically range from six months to two years, depending on the level of certification and specialization.

HVAC-R Employment Opportunities in Spokane Valley

Spokane Valley offers numerous employment opportunities for HVAC-R technicians. Some of the major HVAC-R companies and potential employers in the area include:

1. ACI Northwest
   • Location: Greenacres, Spokane Valley, WA
   • Website: ACI Northwest Careers
   • Description: ACI Northwest specializes in heating, cooling, and electrical services. They offer a range of employment opportunities for skilled HVAC-R technicians.
2. Banner Furnace & Fuel
   • Location: Spokane, WA (approximately 8 miles from Spokane Valley)
   • Website: Banner Furnace & Fuel Careers
   • Description: Banner Furnace & Fuel provides comprehensive HVAC services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. They are always looking for qualified technicians to join their team.
3. R&R Heating & Air Conditioning
   • Location: Spokane, WA (approximately 10 miles from Spokane Valley)
   • Website: R&R Heating & Air Conditioning Careers
   • Description: R&R Heating & Air Conditioning is a leading provider of HVAC services in the Spokane area. They offer competitive salaries and benefits for HVAC-R technicians.

HVAC-R Certification Requirements in Washington

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

State Requirements

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I)

• HVAC Certification: You need to obtain a certification from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) to work as an HVAC technician in Spokane Valley, WA. Washington State Department of Labor and Industries
• Certification Types: L&I offers three types of certifications:
  • 06A: HVAC technician certification for residential and commercial work
  • 06B: HVAC technician certification for commercial work only
  • 06C: HVAC technician certification for medical gas systems
• Certification Requirements: You’ll need to meet the following requirements to get certified:
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Complete an approved apprenticeship program or have 2 years of experience in the trade
  • Pass a written exam administered by L&I
• Certification Renewal: Certifications need to be renewed every 3 years. You’ll need to complete continuing education requirements and pay a renewal fee. Certification Renewal

Federal Requirements

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

• Section 608 Technician Certification: You need to obtain a Section 608 technician certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to handle refrigerants. EPA Section 608 Technician Certification
• Certification Types: The EPA offers three types of certifications:
  • Type I: Certification for small appliances
  • Type II: Certification for high-pressure appliances
  • Type III: Certification for low-pressure appliances
  • Universal: Certification for all types of appliances
• Certification Requirements: You’ll need to pass a written exam administered by an EPA-approved testing organization.

Other Requirements

Spokane Valley, WA

• Business License: You may need to obtain a business license from the City of Spokane Valley to operate an HVAC business. Spokane Valley Business Licenses
• Insurance: You may need to obtain liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance to operate an HVAC business.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as an HVAC-R technician in Spokane Valley, Washington, is a rewarding and promising path. With a variety of local training programs and a growing job market, now is the perfect time to pursue your certification. Contact a school today to learn more about their HVAC-R programs and take the first step towards a fulfilling career in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration.