How to Become an HVAC Technician in Utah

As someone who’s always enjoyed figuring out how things work, I was fascinated by the air conditioning and heating systems in homes growing up.

When it came time to choose a career, an HVAC technician seemed like it could be a great fit for my interests and skills.

In this blog post, I’ll share what I’ve learned about the steps to becoming an HVAC tech.

My goal is to help others explore this rewarding field and show why I’m so excited about the opportunities it offers.

How to Become an HVAC Technician in Utah, Step by Step

Academic Requirements

All HVAC technicians must have a high school diploma or GED to qualify for exams.

Technicians also require four years of hands-on experience in the field.

Hands-On Experience Route

One option is accumulating two years (4,000 hours) of on-the-job experience and passing the state trade exam.

This lets you use real work in your classroom.

Just make sure to get experience with a licensed pro so it counts towards your qualifications.

Certificate Programs

You can choose to enroll in Salt Lake Community College’s air conditioning program.

Their competency-based approach fits a skills-focused learning style better than a degree.

Overall, there are alternatives suited to different goals, schedules, and budgets.

The key is finding a path that empowers you with the educational requirements to call yourself an HVAC technician in Utah.

HVAC Technician Schools in Utah

For those seeking formal education, several institutions in Utah offer programs to help students meet their educational goals for an HVAC career:

Salt Lake Community College:

This 4-year HVAC apprenticeship program requires both 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576+ hours of classroom instruction.

Most students register with the Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training to obtain certification upon completion of the program requirements.

• Residents Fees: $8776
• Non-resident fees: $20,378

Fortis

The HVAC program at Fortis College in Salt Lake City provides hands-on training to prepare students for careers installing and servicing HVAC systems.

• The HVAC program is designed to be completed full-time in nine months.

Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

Mountainland Technical College

Mountainland Technical College in Utah offers an HVAC apprenticeship program at its Wasatch Campus location near Salt Lake City.

• The HVAC Apprenticeship program takes 2 years to complete
• The cost is $2505
• Apprentices earn wages that increase each year of training

Apprenticeships: A Great Way to Earn While You Learn HVAC

Utah has several programs overseen by the State Apprenticeship Council.

A few that caught my eye include:

Sheet Metal Workers Local 104

Their 5-year commercial HVAC track pairs 8,000 work hours with evening classes.

Perfect if you want to specialize in large commercial systems.

Utah Career Center

Offering both residential and commercial training, this 5-year option is available for beginners to advanced levels.

Pipe Trades JATC

Focusing on plumbing, HVAC, and refrigeration over 480 classroom hours each year, plus on-site experience. Great all-around trades education

Apprentices always earn higher pay as their skills grow. Employers also get a directly trained employee at the end.

If you learn best with a hands-on approach, apprenticeships can’t be beat. Just make sure to apply early; spots fill up fast!

Getting Licensed in Utah: Your HVAC Career Roadmap

While HVAC technicians in Utah are not mandated to secure licensure, any individuals seeking to operate an HVAC contracting business must obtain the proper credentialing through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing.

Contractor’s License

To operate your own HVAC business or work independently, obtaining a contractor’s license is mandatory.

Utah offers a few categories, like S350 for HVAC, S351 for refrigeration air conditioning,  S352 for evaporative cooling, S353 for warm air heating, S354 for radon mitigation, and S360 for refrigeration.

You’ll need at least 4 years of experience, along with liability and workers’ compensation coverage.

Primary license applications cost $200; additional categories cost just $100 each.

EPA Certification Requirements for HVAC Techs in Utah

As an HVAC technician, one necessary certification is EPA Section 608.

Not only is it required in Utah, but it shows potential employers you take environmental stewardship seriously.

There are four types of EPA certifications, depending on the size of the refrigeration systems you’ll work on.

Core topics include environmental regulations, refrigerant properties, and recovery and recycling requirements.

• Type I (small appliances) focuses on recovery techniques and safety issues for residential A/C
• Type II (high-pressure, very high-pressure equipment) covers commercial refrigerant leak detection and repair, system components, and recovery methods.
• Type III (servicing and disposing of low-pressure equipment) addresses chillers, recovery procedures, and charging sequences to prevent freezing
• Type IV (universal) for servicing all types of equipment.

I’d urge anyone serious about HVAC to get their EPA certification.

Not only does it demonstrate know-how, but those hefty fines for venting refrigerants aren’t worth the risk!

The Lowdown on HVAC Salaries in Utah

Here’s what to expect as an HVAC tech’s earnings potential based on my research:

The Median Wage

The average pay is around $57k annually across Utah.

Not bad for a 2-year degree!

But starting out…

Entry-level clocked in around $40k for those first few years on the job without much experience under your belt.

Overall, HVAC provides a solid living and opportunities for progression the more skills you obtain.

The work is in high demand too.

Annual Salary Range: Annual Salary by Location:

Location	Avg. Annual Salary
Salt Lake City	$47,035
West Valley City	$54,829
Provo	$45,084
West Jordan	$46,866
Orem	$45,084
Sandy	$46,908
Ogden	$45,422
St. George	$49,104
Layton	$45,252
South Jordan	$46,823

Regional Salary in Utah

* 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 personal skills or qualities are helpful for this career?

Good problem-solving, math, and mechanical skills.

Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Physical stamina for tasks like lifting equipment.

Attention to detail and customer service focus are valuable traits.

What is the typical work schedule for an HVAC tech?

Most technicians work full-time, around 40 hours per week.

However, emergency service calls may sometimes require evening or weekend work.

Indoor jobs are common, but techs also do outdoor installation and repairs.

What tools and equipment do HVAC technicians use on the job?

Common tools include hand tools, power tools, pipe cutters, crimping tools, voltage testers, manifold gauges, vacuum pumps, refrigerant scales, torque wrenches, and various meters and diagnostic devices.

Larger equipment like ductwork, air handlers, and outdoor units are also used.

HVAC Technician Info by State