HVAC
Frequently asked questions
HVAC Software FAQ
- When should I receive payment from the job?
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When completing a service, you can’t always receive payment on the spot. Housecall Pro allows you to send a professional, branded invoice to your customer with custom invoice terms. Customers can pay online, and you can get the money instantly.
- Can I accept payments in Housecall Pro while I’m out in the field?
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Yes. Getting paid is the most crucial part of the job, and with Housecall Pro, you can take payments directly from your mobile phone or tablet in the field, a computer in the office, or by sending your customer an invoice to pay online. We’ll even run an automatic report to show you which payments are overdue, just in case.
- How can customers pay online?
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With Housecall Pro invoicing, it’s easy for customers to pay their invoices online using a credit card or bank account. With just a single button, you can turn the online payment option on and off, leaving you in control.
- How fast do I get payments with Instapay?
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During inevitable times when you can’t wait two business days for your money, Instapay deposits credit card payments in your bank account in minutes for just +1% per transaction. It’s easy to turn Instapay on or off, so you determine how quickly you’ll get paid.
HVAC Licensing FAQ
- Can you do HVAC work without a license?
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It’s possible to do some HVAC work without a license, but most states require some form of a licensed HVAC technician to work on cooling and heating systems. Performing HVAC work without a license can result in fines and even imprisonment. Each state has its own requirements for licensing HVAC technicians, so if you’re thinking about doing your HVAC repairs, be sure to check with your state’s licensing board to make sure you’re following the proper protocol.
- How do you get an HVAC license?
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Getting an HVAC license varies depending on what state you live in. Whether you’re working as an apprentice or working your way up, you’ll still need to attend an HVAC school and get a certification. Check out your local Department of Labor or Board of Heating to see if you are required to pass an exam to become licensed.
- What states do not require HVAC licensing?
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Check with your local state’s licensing board to see if your state doesn’t require a license. Some states that don’t require a license are Florida, Ohio, and Texas. Learn more about HVAC licensing requirements by state.
- What kind of licenses do I need to start an HVAC business?
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The license you’ll need to start an HVAC business depends on the state you’re in. General requirements include a contractor’s license and a business license. You’ll also need a manufacturer’s representative license if you plan on selling or installing heating and cooling equipment.
Check your state requirements with your state licensing board or department of consumer affairs to confirm if you need general liability insurance or an EPA certification to work with refrigerants.
HVAC School FAQ
- How long is HVAC school?
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HVAC school length can vary from two years to even five years, but the length depends on the number of required courses, classroom time, field experience, apprenticeships, and internships. Learn more about HVAC school requirements by your state.
- How much does HVAC school cost?
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HVAC school cost is variable depending on the type of certificate program or degree you plan on pursuing. For example, an HVAC certificate program can start at $1,200 while an associate’s degree program can cost up to $35,000.
- Is online HVAC school worth it?
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There are absolutely advantages to attending online HVAC school. First, online training lets you customize your classes, learn at your own pace, and attend school at a less expensive cost. Additionally, with online school, you’ll have to have a lot of self-discipline.
- Is HVAC school hard?
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Learning a new skill can be challenging. But with so many opportunities for aspiring HVAC workers and a rarely-ending demand for growth, attending school for HVAC is one of the best choices you can make for your career.
- Do you have to go to school for HVAC?
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At minimum to become an HVAC technician, you’ll need to attend an accredited vocational school for nine months, be 18 years old and have received your GED, and take the state licensing exam.
HVAC Salary FAQ
- What is HVAC salary?
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HVAC salary is the amount that a professional in the HVAC industry can earn per year.
- What is the average salary for an HVAC technician?
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In general, an HVAC technician can expect to make an average of $45,000. This can depend on your location, experience, and other factors. If you’re looking to make a career in HVAC, you’ll have a likelihood of job security due to the increase of electricity in homes and green energy solutions.
- What is the starting salary for an HVAC technician?
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Depending on your company pay, certifications, and experience, your pay can vary. In general, HVAC techs start out making $30,000 per year. This depends on where you live.
Many companies offer perks like 401k plans and health insurance. Some technicians may start at $32,334 and can make upwards of $82,768 with more experience.
- Do HVAC technicians get paid a salary or hourly?
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Depending on the company, HVAC technicians can get salaried or hourly pay. When hourly employees, techs get paid an hourly rate for hours worked. When salaried, techs are paid a fixed salary no matter how many hours worked.
When HVAC technicians are independent contractors, they work per project or job. Learn more about HVAC salary averages by state.
- What is the average salary for an HVAC business owner?
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On the high end, HVAC business owners can expect to make $83,858 per year. This can depend on how many employees they have, their location, and the size of their company.
HVAC Industry FAQ
- How can I get started with HVAC flat rate pricing?
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You can set up your own flat rate price book, or look into Profit Rhino using Housecall Pro’s HVAC software.
- Do I require my HVAC business employees to purchase their own tools?
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This is completely up to the HVAC business owner; some business owners may provide their employees with all tools needed, while others may provide their employees with only the major tools they may need or require them to own all tools needed.
- Should I require my HVAC business employees to purchase their own tools?
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This is completely up to the HVAC business owner; some business owners may provide their employees with all tools needed, while others may provide their employees with only the major tools they need. Some businesses may require them to own all the necessary tools.
- What is the best type of HVAC system for a particular building or home?
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When thinking about the best HVAC system for a residence or building, you should consider energy efficiency and building size. Choosing an energy-efficient system will not only help to keep monthly energy costs down, but it will also reduce environmental pollution associated with electricity use. The size of the home or building is also essential because it helps determine what type of unit should be installed and how powerful it needs to be so that it can efficiently heat/cool the entire structure. Each HVAC system has advantages depending on usage requirements and climate conditions, such as temperature range in different seasons during a year in a given location; humidity level; average wind speed; etc. Consult with an expert contractor specializing in this field to determine the best type.