How to Become an HVAC Technician in Connecticut

Are you interested in a career where you get to work with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems?

If you live in Connecticut, becoming an HVAC technician might be the perfect path for you!

The demand for skilled professionals in this field is high, and Connecticut offers many opportunities to start your journey.

Let’s explore the various avenues available to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for this exciting field.

How to Become an HVAC Tech in Connecticut: Step by Step

1. Complete a registered apprenticeship.
2. Apply for licensure and pay the application fee.
3. Take and pass the license exam.
4. Pay the initial license fee and receive your license.
5. Work as a licensed journeyman indefinitely for a licensed contractor.
   -OR-
6. Work as a licensed journeyman for two years to qualify for the contractor-level license examination.
7. Pass the exam, apply for a license, and pay the fee.
8. Renew your license annually to maintain licensure.

If you want to get an HVAC license in Connecticut, you can choose whether to get your education first or learn while working as an apprentice.

The state has certain requirements for the license, but the order in which you meet them can be flexible.

To get the license, you have to go through classroom training and get hands-on experience.

Here are the different paths to pursue an HVAC/R career.

Technical High School

One option is to attend a technical high school that offers HVAC training.

If you complete the required classroom instruction while in high school, you can graduate and find a job in the industry to gain the necessary on-the-job training as a registered apprentice.

Apprenticeship

Another option is to enroll in an HVAC program after high school to complete your formal education before gaining work experience.

Or, if you prefer to earn while you learn, you can apply for an apprentice position with a local union, trade organization, or sponsoring employer.

You’ll attend classes at night or on weekends to receive theoretical training alongside practical experience, often with your employer or union covering some or all of the costs.

To apply for your HVAC license, you need to complete an approved registered apprenticeship program and meet other requirements.

The Connecticut Official State website provides resources to guide you through the process and help you keep track of your hours.

Licenses and Certification

In the state of Connecticut, HVAC technicians and contractors are required by law to have a license.

This requirement applies to all forms of HVAC/R work.

EPA Certificate

HVAC technicians in Connecticut must hold an  EPA Section 608 HVAC Certification if they work on equipment that might release refrigerants into the atmosphere to comply with federal EPA regulations under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act.

Select a Training Program

Connecticut does not have any programs accredited by HVAC Excellence or PAHRA.

However, the state offers reputable options for HVAC training.

Connecticut Technical Education and Career System

(CTECS) has HVAC technician programs for high school students and adults through the extension program, which is approved by the CT Department of Labor.

Eligible students in grades 11 and 12 receive up to 720 hours of instruction and may earn 1500 hours towards a career-affiliated apprenticeship.

Lincoln Technical Institute

has campuses in East Windsor and New Britain.

Tuition for the East Windsor program is around $28,000, while the New Britain program costs approximately $27,000.

Porter and Chester Institute

offers a year-long program with a tuition of approximately $25,000.

The Bristol Technical Education Center, part of CTECS, provides a two-year HVAC program with an estimated tuition of $4,000 per year.

Entech

is also worth considering, as they offer an accelerated S2 license program that fulfills the educational requirements for an unlimited S-2 license, allowing students to focus on their apprentice training while working full-time.

The United Association Union of Plumbers, Fitters, Welders, and Service Techs Local 777

is based in Meriden.

Apprentices in Connecticut attend week-long classes six times a year for five years.

After completing the program, apprentices can take the State of Connecticut Occupational License test and earn 30 college credits.

Training is free, excluding the cost of books.

Industrial Management and Training Institute

The Industrial Management and Training Institute (IMTI) offers an HVAC technician program.

This program provides comprehensive training in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.

The duration of the course may vary but typically ranges from several months to a year, depending on the program structure and schedule.

• The program is 962 Hours Total
• Tuition: $23,088.00
• Books and Materials: $1,840.00
• Application Fee: $75.00
• TOTAL: $25,003.00

Salary

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the usual salary for HVAC technicians in Connecticut as $75,000 a year.

Entry-level technician positions typically start at $66,374 per year, and experienced workers often earn up to $93,600 per year.

These figures reflect the average earnings for HVAC technicians in the state of Connecticut.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Bridgeport	$55,699
New Haven	$53,134
Hartford	$53,090
Stamford	$56,422
Waterbury	$52,855
Norwalk	$56,422
Danbury	$54,432
New Britain	$52,953
Bristol	$52,953
Meriden	$52,953

Regional Salary in Connecticut

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers, OCC Code 49-9021, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job outlook for HVAC technicians in Connecticut?

The job outlook for HVAC technicians in Connecticut is generally favorable.

The demand for skilled technicians remains steady due to ongoing construction, renovations, and the need for HVAC system maintenance and repairs.

What are the typical work hours for HVAC technicians in Connecticut?

HVAC technicians in Connecticut often work full-time schedules, which may include evenings, weekends, and even overtime during peak seasons or emergency repairs.

The nature of the job often requires flexibility to meet customer needs.

Are there opportunities for career advancement in the HVAC field?

Yes, there are opportunities for career advancement in the HVAC field.

With experience and extra certifications, technicians can progress to become supervisors, project managers, or start an HVAC business of their own.

Continuing education and staying updated with industry trends can help open doors to higher-level positions.

HVAC Technician Info by State