California is one of the best states to consider becoming an HVAC technician. Not only is the state notable for its sunshine and cold extremes, but it is also one of the highest-paying regions for technical professionals nationwide.
What’s more, as an HVAC Technician in California, you enjoy constant work and opportunities to grow your business and make more money. If all of this sounds good and you would like to consider becoming a HVAC technician in California, this article is the perfect place to start.
Below you’ll find all the crucial information you’ll need to begin the journey, including possible alternatives to kickstart your career, the best programs in the state, licensing requirements, and potential salary.
Steps to Become an HVAC Technician in California
The following are the most common steps involved in becoming an HVAC technician in California:
1. Complete High School
Before becoming an HVAC technician in California, you must complete high school and receive a diploma. Those who didn’t attend high school may also use a GED equivalent. Either of these credentials will be required when it’s time to enroll in a training program and when it’s time to become certified as well.
2. Receive Proper Training
Regarding training to become an HVAC technician, there are two alternatives to consider. The first is to acquire training on the job, while the second is to attend a formal training program from a college or trade school.
3. On-the-Job Training
HVAC technicians with a high school diploma or GED may choose to begin their career directly by applying for an apprenticeship spot at an approved training center. Unions and companies often run these programs.
Training on the job is an attractive option as it allows candidates to learn from experienced HVAC technicians and enjoy their mentorship at the same time.
- HVAC Training Program- Candidates wishing to acquire formal training before seeking employment may consider a college training program instead of an apprenticeship. They get to earn an associate degree and gain knowledge of critical theories that often comes in handy when it’s time to sit for certification/licensing exams.
- Licensing and Certification- In California, HVAC technicians must be licensed by the Contractors State License Board to take on contracts worth more than $500. This includes the price of labor and materials periods.
The state board holds a monthly free workshop explaining how to become a licensed HVAC technician in California.
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Top HVAC Technician Schools in California
For those who would like to receive training from a training school, below are some of the best programs in California for HVAC technicians to consider.
1. Mt. San Antonio College
Mt. San Antonio College offers aspiring HVAC technicians the opportunity to graduate with a certificate or an associate degree. Students here learn how to handle refrigerants, build automated systems, and troubleshoot common issues with HVAC systems.
The program includes 31.58 units and 63.5 certificate and associate degree courses.
2. San Diego City College
San Diego City College offers air conditioning, refrigeration, and environmental control technology training through an associate degree program. There is also a certificate alternative in air-conditioning and solar energy.
3. University of California San Diego
The certificate program at the University of California is another viable option to consider. It consists of 12 credit hours and can be completed in 18 months.
Accepted applicants acquire in-depth knowledge of HVAC fundamentals and HVAC systems design.
Explore HVAC Technician Schools by City:
Licensure and Certification Requirements
HVAC technicians in California must get a Class C Specialty Contractor License from the state board, known as the C-20 Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating, and Air-conditioning Contractor license.
To qualify, candidates must be at least 18, have a social security number, and have acquired significant work experience under the supervision of a licensed contractor.
The application form costs $330, but candidates are also expected to pay another $200 to officially become HVAC service technicians once they pass the licensing exam.
California has reciprocity agreements with Nevada, Arizona, and Louisiana, meaning certified HVAC technicians can work in those other states with the same license.
Salary and Job Outlook
As an HVAC technician in California, you may look forward to earning an annual average salary of $60,191 - around 12% higher than the national average for other states.
Those who are just starting may begin with a salary of around $37,471, while those who have made it to the top ten percent of earners in the field often take home as high as $96,688.
San Francisco is California’s highest-paying city for HVAC technicians, with an annual average of $82,170. Ontario and Van Nuys follow with a yearly average of $81,792 and $70,263, respectively.
HVAC technicians in Los Angeles earn an annual average salary of $59,273.
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