How to Become an HVAC Technician in Delaware
Individuals who are thoroughly trained in the technology needed to install and service heating, cooling and ventilation equipment are known as HVAC technicians or HVAC techs. Professionals in this field maintain and inspect air conditioning, heating and refrigeration systems and troubleshoot units when they aren’t working properly. Becoming an HVAC technician in Delaware gives you an opportunity to have a career that is respected and in high demand. [Leer en español]
Requirements for Becoming an HVAC Technician in Delaware
Training to become an HVAC technician in Delaware lasts between six months and two years. Most employers require some form of higher education as well as a High School Diploma or equivalent, since the field of heating, cooling, ventilation and refrigeration is always becoming more complex. You will need to learn how to install, repair and troubleshoot HVAC systems.
In the state of Delaware, an HVAC license is issued through the Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Examiners. This is part of the Delaware Division of Professional Regulation. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires anyone who services, maintains, repairs or disposes of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere in Delaware and elsewhere to obtain EPA Section 608 Certification. To earn this certification, technicians must pass an exam that is EPA-approved.
Topics covered by HVAC training programs may include:
- Refrigeration theory
- Electrical theory
- Heating systems
- Air distribution systems
- Hydronic systems
- Construction education
HVAC techs need to be highly skilled in order to work on today’s sophisticated systems. They must have a strong understanding of how the various parts of these systems work together and how they are controlled. In addition, HVAC techs should be well-versed in industry safety standards as well as local building codes.
Skills needed to work in the HVAC field includes:
- Ability to operate hand and power tools
- Ability to read technical manuals and schematic diagrams
- Familiarity with HVAC system troubleshooting techniques
- Good customer service skills
- Excellent problem-solving skills
- Strong communication skills
Apprenticeship and HVAC Schools in Delaware
Developing the skills needed to become an HVAC technician in Delaware starts with completing an apprenticeship or postsecondary training program. An apprentice must register with the State of Delaware Department of Labor and enroll in a program that has been federally approved.
In Delaware, there are several HVAC training programs for those interested in receiving training by going to school. Consider one of the following courses:
- Delaware Skills Center. Individuals who are interested in obtaining training for employment in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning can attend a 12-week program at Delaware Skills Center. Fifty percent of this program is classroom theory and instruction, which includes math, reading, electrical, heating, refrigeration, blue print reading, safety, AHRI Efficiency Standards, piping, geothermal heat pump and residual energy. The other fifty percent of a student’s time spent enrolled in the HVAC program is hands-on training, which includes job shadowing.
- Delaware Technical College. With locations in Dover, Georgetown, Stanton and Wilmington, Delaware Technical College offers options to obtain an HVAC Maintenance Certification or Commercial HVAC Certification. These programs include education and training in heating, refrigeration, air conditioning and blueprint reading, as well as testing for EPA Certification.
Successful completion of either of these degree programs prepare students for entry-level employment in the HVAC field.
Certification and Licensing for Becoming an HVAC Technician in Delaware
Individuals who will be working with refrigerants in Delaware and other states are required to hold active EPA Section 608 certification. There are several different types of specialized heating and cooling licensing types in Delaware.
To become an apprentice, you must enroll in a federally approved program and register with the State of Delaware Department of Labor. Becoming a journeyperson requires completing a registered apprenticeship program and an apprenticeship of four years on-the-job training. An alternative way to become a journeyman is to have seven years’ experience working under a licensed Master, and you must also pass the Apprenticeship By-Pass Exam. To become a Master, you must pass the Master HVACR exam and be certified as a journeyman.
Career Outlook and Salary Expectations
The webpage provides a detailed comparison of wages for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers in Delaware against national averages. It breaks down wages into percentiles, showing both annual and hourly earnings, and further compares these figures across different regions within Delaware.
National vs. Local Salaries
| Category | Delaware (Annual Median Wage) | United States (Annual Median Wage) |
|---|---|---|
| Median Wage | $54,540 | $50,590 |
Salaries and Percentiles by Region
| Percentile | Wilmington, DE-MD-NJ Metropolitan Division | Dover, DE |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,460 | $33,850 |
| Median Wage | $57,460 | $48,750 |
HVAC Trends in Delaware
The employment trends for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers in Delaware are projected to grow by 11% from 2020 to 2030, with the number of employees increasing from 1,610 to 1,780. Annually, this field is expected to open up 180 job positions. Nationally, the projection for the same period (2022 to 2032) expects a 6% growth, with employment rising from 415,800 to 438,800, and annual job openings estimated at 37,700, indicating a faster than average growth rate
Employement Trends
| Location | Employment (Start) | Employment (End) | Projected Growth | Projected Annual Job Openings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | 1,610 (2020) | 1,780 (2030) | 11% | 180 |
| United States | 415,800 (2022) | 438,800 (2032) | 6% (Faster than average) | 37,700 |
Sources of data:
- For employment trends and projections: Projections Central’s 2020-2030 long-term projections.
- For national employment and wage data: The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) 2022-2032 employment projections.
Working as an HVAC Technician in Delaware
There are many different kinds of businesses that need HVACR services in the state of Delaware. Heating and cooling systems require installation and maintenance in residential neighborhoods and in hotels, hospitals, schools, professional office buildings and many other types of businesses.
Professionals in this field may work for a licensed contractor or eventually as a self-employed licensed contractor. Experts in the field of heating, ventilation and air conditioning are in high demand, and growth in this occupation is expected to be faster than average.
FAQs
How Can I Become an HVAC tech in Delaware?
- 1. Complete post-secondary program or apprenticeship to learn to install or repair HVAC systems.
- 2. Register as an apprentice with Delaware Department of Labor.
- 3. Obtain HVAC license through Division of Professional Regulation.
- 4. Obtain EPA Section 608 certification if working with refrigerants.
How much do HVAC mechanics and installers earn in the state of Delaware?
According to Indeed, the average salary for an HVAC mechanic or installer in Delaware is $55,000. However, this varies depending on experience and skill level. Those with more experience and training may earn a higher salary, while those who are just starting out may earn a bit less.