You're considering a career as an HVAC technician in Columbus, OH, and you're not alone. With 5% national employment growth through 2030 1 and a $4.2 billion Ohio HVAC market size 2, this field is heating up. In Columbus specifically, where 431 HVAC businesses compete 3, experienced technicians can earn up to $32.96/hour or $85k annually 4 while working on cutting-edge technology like smart HVAC systems and energy recovery ventilation. Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your skills, now is an opportune time to explore resources like Carrier's 2025 Trends for Ohio Homeowners and enter this dynamic field. Let's explore how to start your HVAC journey in Columbus.
HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Their work requires technical knowledge of climate control systems combined with practical hands-on skills. As new refrigerant regulations phase out R-410A starting in 2025 5 and demand grows for smart HVAC technology integration 5, Columbus technicians can learn more about trends through CWA Ohio's Heating and Cooling Trends blog, while staying aware of evolving technologies and maintaining core mechanical competencies.
Yes - in Ohio, all HVAC technicians must work under a licensed contractor until obtaining their own license. As of 2025, all Ohio HVAC contractors must pass new certification related to low-GWP refrigerants 6. Specific requirements include:
The City of Columbus may add additional local requirements 2, so it's important to check with local authorities for full compliance. For detailed information on state licensing regulations, visit Service Titan's [Ohio HVAC license page 7](https://www.servicetitan.com/licensing/hvac/ohio) or explore Indeed's Ohio HVAC job listings for insights.
The career path begins with either formal education/training or apprenticeship under a licensed HVAC contractor. Here's a practical timeline:
| Experience Type | Typical Timeline | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Formal Education | 1-2 years | Certificate programs at Columbus State CC or Fortis College 53 |
| Apprenticeship | 3-5 years | On-the-job learning under licensed professionals 24 |
| Journeyman to Master | 2+ years | Experience plus passing advanced exams 4 |
To start your HVAC training journey:
While not strictly required, completing a formal training program gives you a significant head start. Options in Columbus include:
For apprenticeship opportunities in Columbus and surrounding areas that often seek trained candidates, check out Gild's HVAC jobs list in Columbus. You can also explore Rheem's HVAC resources for contractor tips.
Most HVAC technicians in Columbus begin through apprenticeship programs combining on-the-job learning with classroom instruction. Requirements typically include:
During your apprenticeship, you'll work under supervision while mastering:
Once you've completed your apprenticeship, you qualify for journey-level positions. To work independently in Ohio:
Columbus' growing HVAC market creates opportunities for specialization in:
Several local programs prepare students for HVAC careers:
Columbus State Community College offers multiple HVAC paths including Commercial, Residential/Light Commercial, and Test & Balance certificates 234. Check their program details online.
Fortis College in Westerville provides a focused HVAC program combining classroom learning with practical experience 53. Visit Fortis' HVAC page.
Columbus City Schools' Fort Hayes Career Center delivers a 12-month Commercial HVACR program with EPA 608 Universal and OSHA 10 certifications 63.
All these programs help students meet the $4.2 billion Ohio HVAC market's demands 2 while preparing for the technician shortage where 1.8 jobs now compete for every available technician 4.
The Columbus HVAC market reflects strong demand with $4.2 billion statewide market size 2 and 9.4% employment growth projection through 2030 6. Hourly wages range from $13.88 for entry-level positions to $32.96 or more for experienced technicians 4, with some top earners reaching $85,000 annually 4.
| Experience Level | Average Hourly Rate | Top Earners |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level 4 | $13.88 | N/A |
| Experienced 4 | $32.96 | $85,000+/year |
| Market Average 4 | $27.30-$31.72 |
According to Indeed 4, the average annual salary reaches $64,062, placing Columbus near the national average while enjoying lower costs compared to major cities like Los Angeles or New York. For more job market insights, check Indeed's listings.
Columbus technicians benefit from working with emerging technologies that boost efficiency and improve indoor air quality. Important trends include:
Low-GWP refrigerants: R-410A phase-out beginning 2025 requires familiarity with A2L refrigerants like R-454B 54, as discussed in Logan Inc.'s refrigerant blog
Smart HVAC systems: Carrier's latest models enable digital integration and real-time control 5
Energy recovery ventilation: Maintaining air quality while reducing system strain
Hydronic heating: Growing use of radiant heating technology 4
These changes drive demand for technicians who stay current with training developments, making Columbus' HVAC education programs even more valuable resources.
Despite challenges like the national technician shortage (225,000 workers gap) 4, Columbus offers abundant opportunity. The city projects 9.4% HVAC employment growth through 2030 6 compared to state averages, with HVAC sales up 4.2% year-over-year 5.
Opportunities thrive in:
The key challenge remains meeting demand - with 1.8 HVAC jobs available for every technician 4, qualified professionals have strong bargaining power.
Sustainable practices strongly influence Columbus' HVAC industry. The major regulatory change involves phasing out R-410A refrigerant (GWP 2,088) starting in 2025 54, replacing it with low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants like R-454B and R-32 that must be handled differently.
Technicians need to master mildly flammable A2L refrigerant handling procedures while maintaining technical excellence. Ohio's new certification requirements effective July 1, 2025 6 ensure technicians stay current with environmental compliance standards, with detailed info on Service Titan.
Starting your HVAC career in Columbus, OH means entering a field with promising growth projections and competitive compensation. Whether you're fresh from high school or looking for a career change, Columbus' HVAC industry offers a path forward with multiple entry options from formal education to apprenticeship. With the right training and certification, you can capitalize on strong demand with salaries reaching $32.96/hour or $85,000 annually 4.
Check out Gild for current HVAC apprenticeship opportunities in Columbus - this platform connects aspiring technicians to real jobs across central Ohio. For further support, explore Fortis' HVAC programs, Columbus State CC listings, and Carrier's trends. The HVAC industry in Columbus is ready - are you?
https://indoortemp.com/resources/hvac-technician-jobs-columbus-installer ↩
https://www.ibisworld.com/us/industry/ohio/heating-air-conditioning-contractors/12936/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9 ↩10
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https://www.achrnews.com/articles/164259-hardi-reports-january-sales-jump ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9 ↩10 ↩11
https://ohiolmi.com/_docs/proj/MSA/Columbus.pdf ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8
