A Step-by-Step Guide: How Do You Become an HVAC Technician in Arizona?

The demand for HVAC technicians and contractors is rising daily in Arizona. HVAC technicians in Arizona can work in a variety of settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial.

Education & Training

To become an HVAC technician in Arizona, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Then, enroll in a formal HVAC training program at a trade school, community college, or vocational training institute.

How Long is HVAC Training in Arizona?

The average timeframe for most HVAC schools is 6 to 10 months. Some hybrid or online courses maybe completed faster if they allow you to control the pace of study.

What Are The Benefits of a Training Programs?

• Certifications Preparation
  • Prepare for NATE, HVAC Excellence, and EPA 608 Refrigerant Handling certification exams.
• Practical Tools
  • Some programs provide a tool kit to start your HVAC career with the necessary tools.
• Professional Development
  • Participate in networking events like live webinars and workshops.

What Do You Study?

A typical curriculum would cover topics such as the following:

• Residential Energy Audits
  • Understand the procedures and criteria for conducting a residential energy audit.
• Vapor-Compression Refrigeration Cycle
  • Learn the four basic components of the vapor-compression refrigeration cycle.
• System Refrigerants
  • Explore the functions and desired characteristics of system refrigerants.
• Piping Operations
  • Demonstrate essential piping operations typically performed by air conditioning technicians.
• Installation and Operation
  • Gain skills in properly installing and operating air-conditioning systems.
• Green Technology
  • Stay updated on the latest advances and trends in green technology.
• EPA Refrigerant Regulations
  • Study EPA laws governing safe refrigerant handling, transport, and recovery.
• Refrigerant Management
  • Learn techniques for recovering, recycling, reclaiming, and retrofitting refrigerants.
• Heating and Cooling Systems
  • Understand the operation and troubleshooting of electric, gas, oil, and hydronic heating systems.
• Indoor Air Quality
  • Learn about maintaining and improving indoor air quality through HVAC systems.
• Commercial Refrigeration
  • Study the components, systems, and troubleshooting techniques for commercial refrigeration.
• Air Conditioning
  • Gain knowledge on refrigeration applied to air-conditioning, including comfort and psychometrics.
• Advanced Controls
  • Explore advanced automatic controls, including direct digital controls (DDCs) and pneumatics.
• Electric Motors
  • Understand types, applications, and troubleshooting of electric motors used in HVAC systems.
• Energy Auditing
  • Conduct energy audits to assess heat gains and losses in residential and commercial structures.
• Simulation Exercises
  • Engage in real-world simulations for HVAC and electrical systems, including safety and soft skills quizzes.
• Soft Skills Development
  • Improve essential soft skills such as communication, decision-making, time management, and problem-solving.

Salary Expectations

Below is the salary range for the state based on data from major job sites.

• ZipRecruiter: $49,817
• Bureau of Labor: $55,340
• Indeed.com: $60,747
• Talent.com: $62,422
• Glassdoor: $78K

Here is a look at the variations in local pay, based on data from the BLS.

Area	Per Hour	Per Year
Arizona	$25.22	$52,460
Flagstaff	$26.44	$54,990
Lake Havasu City-Kingman	$24.57	$51,100
Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale	$27.11	$56,400
Prescott	$24.68	$51,340
Sierra Vista-Douglas	$26.94	$56,030
Tucson	$25.02	$52,050
Yuma	$24.99	$51,980

_{Occupation: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC Code499021)
source: data.bls.gov}

Apprenticeship Programs

To get an Arizona HVAC license, you must be 18 and hold a high school diploma or GED.

However, HVAC licenses are not obtained quickly.

Before obtaining a license, prospective technicians must have at least 4 years of professional experience. This requirement can be obtained by completing an approved apprenticeship or educational program, such as a formal HVAC diploma or certificate program at a community college.

Other avenues to become an HVAC apprentice include going through a local union or trade organization, or an informal apprenticeship with a sponsoring employer while working as an entry-level employee under a licensed contractor.

Finally, you must pass an EPA-approved exam to become certified, submitting your results and any additional necessary documentation to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.

Arizona HVAC License Requirements (Local & State)

To legally perform heating, AC, and refrigeration work exceeding $1,000 in Arizona, you must be a state-licensed contractor or work under one. An HVAC license in Arizona is issued through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, and they are called “Contractor Licenses.”

While the state does not provide technician licenses, some local municipalities and cities provide licenses at the journeyman level, so checking the requirements where you plan to work is essential.

Licensing Exam Details

The Registrar of Contractors offers an AZ Statutes and Rules Training Course and Exam, which prospective contractors must pass before applying for an Arizona HVAC License.

• The Arizona Statutes and Rules Exam is administered by the PSI and costs $54.
• The exam covers a wide variety of topics related to business management and HVAC work.
• The Trade Exam is specific to your license type and covers topics such as air conditioning and refrigeration.
• You can take or retake the licensing exam at any of the five PSI testing centers in Arizona.

Following acquiring a license, contractors with LLCs and corporations must register with the Arizona Corporation Commission, while partnerships must register with the Arizona Secretary of State.

Types of License & Requirements

Arizona AC contractor licenses are divided into Residential, Commercial, and Dual certifications, each requiring four years of prior experience.

Becoming a Residential Contractor

A residential HVAC contractor in Arizona can install and repair comfort AC systems, including refrigeration, evaporative cooling, ventilation, and heating, with or without solar equipment. They can also work on machinery, units, accessories, refrigerated rooms, insulated spaces, and controls in refrigerators, but they are not permitted to install new service panels or sub-panels.

Requirements

To become a residential HVAC contractor, you must pass the PSI Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Residential Contractor Exam and complete the Arizona Statutes and Rules Training Course and Exam. Additionally, you must submit proof of four years of hands-on or managerial experience, undergo a background check, and form a legal entity.

Applications are submitted to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, who is responsible for issuing licenses following approval.

Becoming a Commercial Contractor

A commercial HVAC contractor in Arizona can install, alter, and repair refrigeration and evaporative cooling systems, as well as various types of heating systems, including ‘wet’ (steam/hot water boilers and coils, baseboard convectors), ‘dry’ (gas-fired furnaces and space heaters), and ‘radiant’ types. They can also handle ventilation systems, including ductwork, air filtering devices, water treatment devices, pneumatic and electrical controls, and control piping.

Additionally, they can test and balance refrigerant, cooling, heating circuits, and air handling systems. They can add new circuits to existing service panels and sub-panels but cannot install new service or sub-panels.

Requirements

To obtain a specialty commercial license, you must pass the PSI Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Commercial Contractor Exam and complete the AZ Statutes and Rules Training Course and Exam. You must also provide proof of four years of hands-on or managerial experience, undergo a background check, and apply for a license through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.

Becoming a Dual-Licensed Contractor

A dual-licensed HVAC contractor in Arizona holds the combined privileges of both residential and commercial contractors. This allows them to perform the complete installation, repair, and maintenance tasks across residential and commercial settings.

See requirements above.

Insurance and Registration Requirements

Licensed HVAC contractors in Arizona must have liability insurance. Insurance requirements may vary slightly among jurisdictions.

You must also register with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors and obtain a license bond.

Renewals

State licenses for HVAC contractors in Arizona must be renewed every two years with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. The state does not require continuing education before each renewal.

State Reciprocity

Arizona does not have a formal reciprocity policy for HVAC licensing. However, applicants with out-of-state licenses from California, Nevada, or Utah may apply to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors for a trade exam waiver if they have held a similar license in another state for at least one year, provided their qualifications meet Arizona’s standards.

National Certifications and Credentials

Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all HVAC techs who work with refrigerants to be certified. An EPA certification, such as Type I, II, and III , will allow you to work on specific types of equipment.

Joining a Union

The Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association (SMWIA), also known as the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), and the United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry (UA) are prominent unions representing HVAC technicians in Arizona.

The SMWIA, in particular, is one of the most significant unions in the industry, advocating for workers’ rights and providing extensive training programs. Formed in 1888, SMWIA has a long history of supporting and organizing skilled labor in the sheet metal industry.

SMWIA has several local chapters in Arizona, including:

• SMWIA Local 359 — Phoenix, AZ
• SMWIA Local 100 — Tucson, AZ
• SMWIA Local 26 — Yuma, AZ
• SMWIA Local 359 — Mesa, AZ
• SMWIA Local 57 — Flagstaff, AZ

To join an apprenticeship program offered by SMWIA, you must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass an aptitude test. Applicants must provide official transcripts and complete an interview with the local union office before being placed on an eligibility list, with ranking based on their scores.

For licensed HVAC technicians, joining the union involves contacting the local chapter, providing proof of experience and qualifications, and agreeing to a background check. Each local may have additional specific requirements, such as residency within their jurisdiction and possessing a valid driver’s license.

Continuing Education and Renewal

There is currently no continuing education requirement to renew your Arizona Specialty Contractor license for air conditioning and refrigeration.

However, it is recommended that HVAC technicians stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and techniques. You can do this by reading magazines such as Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration News and HVAC Today.

What Employers in Arizona Are Looking for in an HVAC Technician

The HVAC industry in Arizona is booming, with employers actively seeking skilled and dedicated technicians who are ready to meet the demands of the region’s extreme temperatures. Companies such as Fix it Frankie, Chandler Air, Ambient Edge, and Cave Creek Cooling Co. represent a cross-section of the industry’s hiring trends. These employers are not only looking for technical expertise but also value a strong work ethic, customer service skills, and a commitment to continuous learning.

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Core Skills and Qualifications Employers Seek

1. Technical Proficiency and Certification:
   • HVAC companies prioritize candidates with hands-on experience in installation, maintenance, and repair of residential and commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
   • Certifications such as EPA 608 and NATE (North American Technician Excellence) are often required or preferred.
   • Experience with package HVAC units, gas card systems, and central plants is frequently mentioned, particularly for institutional positions, like the Peoria Unified School District journeyman role.
   • Proficiency in troubleshooting electrical, plumbing, and refrigeration systems is highly valued, showcasing the industry’s crossover into multi-trade skills.
2. Work Experience and Licensing:
   • While some companies, such as Fix it Frankie and Chandler Air, offer apprenticeships and on-the-job training, many employers prefer candidates with 1-3 years of field experience.
   • A valid driver’s license with a clean driving record is a standard requirement, as most technicians travel between job sites.
   • Companies like Ambient Edge and Cave Creek Cooling Co. explicitly state the need for EPA certifications, which are necessary for handling refrigerants.
3. Physical Stamina and Safety Awareness:
   • HVAC roles demand physical endurance, with job descriptions frequently mentioning the ability to lift up to 80 lbs, work in extreme heat or cold, and handle physically demanding tasks.
   • Safety protocols, including the use of protective gear and adherence to OSHA standards, are expected knowledge areas.

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Soft Skills and Character Traits

Employers in Arizona value more than just technical prowess—they seek individuals with the right mindset and character.

• Customer Service and Communication:
  • The ability to explain HVAC issues and solutions to homeowners in a clear and friendly manner is essential. Companies like Chandler Air emphasize that communication is a core part of the job, requiring technicians to be personable and professional.
• Work Ethic and Reliability:
  • Employers frequently stress the importance of being dependable and hardworking, with some, like Fix it Frankie, highlighting the need for a “roll-up-your-sleeves” mentality.
  • Frankie’s job descriptions emphasize the need for candidates who are driven, honest, and hungry for career growth—seeking future lead technicians and managers rather than mere apprentices.
• Flexibility and Adaptability:
  • With Arizona’s fluctuating weather conditions, technicians must be willing to work in diverse environments and adapt to different schedules. Many companies require availability for overtime, nights, and emergency calls.

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Crossover into Other Disciplines

HVAC technicians in Arizona often find themselves crossing into related trades due to the nature of the job:

• Electrical work: Troubleshooting and wiring systems are integral skills. Technicians frequently deal with circuit boards, electrical connections, and power systems.
• Plumbing and refrigeration: Many HVAC roles involve refrigerant line installation and leak detection, as well as working with gas lines or water heaters.
• Building maintenance and construction: Larger organizations, such as school districts or commercial service providers, expect HVAC techs to have basic skills in carpentry, roofing, and general facility maintenance.

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Employer-Specific Highlights

1. Fix it Frankie (Phoenix, AZ):
   • Offers a career growth path, seeking candidates with leadership potential.
   • Highlights the importance of being service-oriented and dependable, equating the role to that of essential service providers such as firefighters or paramedics.
2. Chandler Air (Chandler, AZ):
   • Provides 401(k) matching, health insurance, and paid holidays.
   • Emphasizes customer service and communication skills as essential to the role.
3. Ambient Edge (Kingman, AZ):
   • Competitive salary with 401(k) matching and nearly full medical coverage.
   • Offers ongoing training and certification support, appealing to career-minded technicians.
4. Cave Creek Cooling Co. (Cave Creek, AZ):
   • Known for its small company culture, offering personalized support and competitive pay.
   • Provides a company vehicle, phone, and credit card, making the role attractive for independent and reliable technicians.

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Key Takeaway: What Employers Want

Employers in Arizona’s HVAC industry seek technicians who combine technical competence with strong soft skills. The most sought-after candidates are:

• Technically proficient, with hands-on experience and certifications.
• Customer-focused, able to clearly explain repairs and maintenance processes.
• Hardworking and reliable, with a dedication to service, adaptability, and problem-solving.
• Career-oriented, with a hunger for growth and willingness to learn, as shown by companies like Fix it Frankie, which actively develop future leaders.

In Arizona, HVAC technicians who bring a blend of technical skill, customer service, and a solid work ethic will find themselves in high demand, with plenty of opportunities for career advancement.

12 News Arizona

According to 12News Arizona, the Phoenix Chamber Foundation’s Build Your Future Arizona project estimates that over 261,000 craft professionals will be needed by 2024.

The National Technical Institute (NTI) is among the institutions working to address this labor gap, particularly in the HVAC sector, experiencing extremely high demand.

A recent angi.com study reported that 77% of tradespeople believe the labor shortage is worsening, up from 71% the previous year.

Dr. Maria Dezenberg of NTI noted that contractors frequently visit the school and engage with students to recruit graduates. NTI graduates typically earn $17 to $22 per hour, with wages increasing with experience. NTI’s training programs span about 16 weeks, combining video lessons and in-person instruction.

AZPM.com

Per AZPM.com, Pima Community College is expanding its commercial HVAC training programs with a $1.2 million grant facilitated by Rep. Raúl Grijalva. This funding will be used to purchase training equipment for new students and to provide additional training for current HVAC workers in Southern Arizona.

During a visit, Grijalva emphasized that the investment not only prepares students but provides necessary support for the growth of the community.  

Peter Purves, from Green Valley Cooling and Heating, highlighted that the expanded training program is essential to address the shortage of technicians in the HVAC industry.

Arizona PBS

A recent AZ PBS article discussed the current HVAC industry boom. The industry is experiencing robust growth, with over 40,000 annual job openings projected for the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Kristin Gubser, a vice president from Gateway Community College, was interviewed.

Gubser highlighted the broad scope of HVAC work, which encompasses heating, ventilation, refrigeration, and air conditioning across various settings, including residential and commercial. Gateway offers both a one-year residential program and a two-year Associate’s Degree, with hands-on training and support from industry partners like Johnson Controls.

The article also cited how the number of HVAC contractor businesses in the U.S. rose by 4.5% from the previous year in 2023.

Resources for HVAC Technicians

• The Arizona Registrar of Contractors offers free virtual monthly Applicant Education Seminars to help you navigate the licensing process.
• You can also contact the Refrigeration School or the Universal Technical Institute in Scottsdale for more information on HVAC programs.
• The Arizona Department of Commerce also provides resources for HVAC technicians, including information on licensing and certification.

Conclusion

The three main steps to becoming an HVAC technician in Arizona are education, training, and licensure.

By following these steps, you can start a successful career in the HVAC industry. Remember to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and techniques to advance in your career.