Comprehensive Guide to HVAC Business Startup and Training

Curious about starting one of the fastest-growing trades in the country?

As climate change creates record-high temperatures and new smart home technology becomes standard, 40,100 more HVAC jobs will be created by 2033.

That’s a 9% growth rate.

Here’s the best part…

Becoming an HVAC tech doesn’t require a four-year college degree or thousands of dollars in student loans. With the right training and a plan in place, you can start your own HVAC business from the ground up.

This complete guide will show you exactly what it takes to start your HVAC business and provide the training you need to get started in this extremely hot industry.

Ready? Let’s dive in!

Here’s what you’ll learn:

Why HVAC is a smart career move right now
Training requirements you need to know
How to get started with your HVAC business
Certification paths that matter
Real numbers: what it costs to launch your business

Why HVAC Is a Smart Career Move Right Now

If you’re interested in starting an HVAC business, now is the perfect time.

The industry is booming. As new construction is built, HVAC systems need to be installed. As old equipment breaks down, it needs to be replaced. And smart technology is fueling demand for HVAC upgrades and replacements.

But there’s another reason this trade is exploding right now…

Labor shortage.

Baby boomer technicians are retiring at a rate that isn’t being replaced by new young workers.

About 42,500 job openings for HVAC mechanics and installers are projected every year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means there is steady work available and the pay is competitive.

The timing couldn’t be better to get started in the HVAC industry.

Essential Training Requirements You Need to Know

Before you can start an HVAC business, you need to get the right training.

Here’s why. HVAC work is complicated. It involves:

Electrical components
Refrigerants
Safety protocol

The average homeowner does not have the knowledge or skills to DIY HVAC work. Mistakes can be costly, and even dangerous.

To be successful, HVAC professionals need training that covers the fundamentals of heating systems, air conditioning, refrigeration, electrical components, troubleshooting, and more.

Most start by taking HVAC training classes at a trade school or community college. HVAC programs provide a foundation of knowledge and skills while hands-on work comes with time and experience in the field.

There are several ways you can get trained to be an HVAC technician.

Technical or trade schools that offer certificate programs (6-9 months)
Community colleges with associate degree programs (about 2 years)
Apprenticeships that mix paid work with classwork (3-5 years)
Online programs offering more flexibility for self-paced learning

Each of these training options has pros and cons. For example, trade schools put new technicians into the workforce faster. Apprenticeships give trainees real-world experience while they earn a wage.

The best training program for you is one that fits your schedule and meets your state’s licensing requirements.

How to Get Started With Your HVAC Business

Training and certifications are a start. But as an HVAC business owner, you also need to know how to handle the business side of things.

The first step is taking care of the business requirements.

Legal structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation)
Licensing and permits (state and local regulations vary)
Insurance (general liability and workers’ comp)
Equipment and tools (invest in specialized HVAC tech)
Marketing plan (essential for those first customers)

There is a lot to do to launch an HVAC business. But the more work you put into the foundation, the faster the business can scale later.

Certification Pathways That Actually Matter

Certifications are not just paperwork. They are hard-earned credentials that customers and employers trust.

EPA Section 608 Certification is required in all 50 states, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Technicians must pass this federal certification to legally handle refrigerants.

The EPA 608 exam comes in several types, based on what you’ll be working on:

Type I – Small appliances
Type II – High-pressure systems
Type III – Low-pressure systems
Universal – All of the above (best to take all of them)

On top of the EPA exam, HVAC technicians take additional certifications to prove competency and skill.

NATE Certification (North American Technician Excellence) is a popular certification among techs. It shows a mastery of advanced knowledge in certain specialties, such as air conditioning service or heat pump installation.

HVAC Excellence is another certification organization with exams for installation and service specialties.

OSHA Safety Training is also required by many employers. There are 10-hour and 30-hour courses that cover safety and health hazards on the job site.

These certifications help separate amateurs from HVAC professionals.

They open the door to better job opportunities and allow contractors to charge higher rates to customers.

Real Numbers: What It Costs to Launch Your Business

It’s time to talk money.

On average, starting an HVAC business costs between $2,000 and $12,000. That doesn’t include the cost of vehicles.

Here’s the breakdown:

Training and education: $1,200 to $15,000, depending on the program
Licensing and certifications: $200 to $500 for EPA, NATE, and state licenses
Insurance: $500 to $3,000 per year for general liability insurance
Tools and equipment: $2,000 to $5,000 for the startup toolkit
Vehicle: $40,000+ for a good used van, or leasing can be an option

Of course, many HVAC contractors will try to minimize the startup costs by leasing vehicles or buying used tools. This helps new technicians keep the upfront investment lower and more affordable.

One of the great things about the HVAC industry is that you can become profitable rather quickly. Smaller HVAC businesses can make less than $50,000 per year in profit. Larger operations with several technicians on staff can make millions.

The key is starting lean and focused on excellent service and steady growth.

Making Your Move Into HVAC

The HVAC industry is one of the most stable career paths in the skilled trades. Good job growth, competitive pay, and strong demand make starting an HVAC business a smart choice for entrepreneurial-minded individuals willing to work.

Success is built on the foundation of proper training. Quality training programs create the education and skills needed to work safely and effectively. Certifications help prove competency and skill to customers.

To start an HVAC business, some investment is required to pay for training, tools, and licenses. But the barriers to entry are low, and the opportunity to grow is high.

The path forward is clear: