Installing and repairing central air condition systems is a great career to get into because many businesses have central air nowadays. While it is more prevalent in the warmer climates, the areas of the country that have the four seasons also make use of central heating and air conditioning systems for the convenience of having one unit. You have to have special training and have the proper certification and licenses to work on these machines, though. Most states have requirements such as passing an air conditioning licensing exam. Be sure to find out what your particular state’s requirements are.

Be sure you cover all of your bases when getting your central air conditioning education and training. Consider these ideas to get you started:

1. Research your state’s rules in regards to getting your license to work on central air systems.

2. Complete the proper classes and seminars to fulfill the licensing requirements.

3. Join a professional trade organization and learn from your fellow central AC system professionals.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find out your state's requirements for getting a license to work on central air conditioning systems

Once you have decided that you want to apply for a license to install or repair central air conditioner systems, it is important that you check with your particular state. All states require that you have certification, but their central air conditioning systems education and training requirements may be different.

I recommend: The Training Source lists links to every state’s licensing requirements page. The State of Delaware gives specific information on what is required for central air licensing, as there are different application procedures depending on how you are applying.

Locate classes that will give you the right central air conditioning systems education and training

Once you know your state's requirements for obtaining your central air systems repair and installation license, you should now take the applicable courses in order to get your certification. There is usually a core set of central air conditioning system classes you must take, but you will also be able to take classes that allow you to specialize in a certain aspect of central air and heating systems, such as installation. Classes are available in person, online and via home study. Make sure your state accepts the certification awarded by the company that runs the education option you choose before beginning the program of study.

I recommend: HVACReducation.net has a large number of educational options available to get you certified. Take advantage of the traveling educational seminars offered by the HVAC Training Institute. Get certified as an HVAC technician or take continuing education courses through RSES. Learn about repairing Trane equipment or designing entire air conditioning systems through the education program run by that major HVAC manufacturer.

Team up with other central AC system professionals through trade associations

A great way to keep abreast of all the changes happening in the world of commercial central air conditioning systems is by joining an association and networking with other professionals. Many offer continuing education classes and seminars along with social events so you can always have options available to further your education and training.

I recommend: Air Conditioning Contractors of America has many continuing education resources including online seminars and at-home training through CDs and DVDs. Check out American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers as their educational and certification offerings are extensive.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Speak with local central AC system specialists to see if there are any classes that aren't required by the state, but they recommend you take to further your education.

As a certified central air cooling systems installer, your company has the know-how to give your customers just what they need. Of course, these needs vary depending on what part of the country you live in. Aside from climate, there's something else to think about when choosing a home or small business central AC system: the size of the area to be cooled. This will affect the capacity, in tons, of the unit you install.

One final thing to think about when considering central air conditioning systems is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, otherwise known as SEER. The higher the number, the more energy efficient.

Consider the following before choosing a unit for a client:

1. Install traditional central air conditioner systems. These are mostly used in climates that get cold enough to warrant the use of a boiler system.

2. Make use of a central AC system that has a heat pump. This is a great choice for warmer climates.

3. Think about energy efficiency if your clients would like central air systems that can save them money. Energy Star has qualified many units already.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Make use of a standard split-unit central AC system

Up north, air conditioning isn't always a necessity. For some, it's a luxury even. Most buildings in the northern states have boilers in their basements for heat during harsh winters. Owners with these systems don't need a cooling system that includes a heat pump because they already have adequate heating equipment.

I recommend: Browse through offerings from three different brands at ACDirect. Check out what Goodman has to offer, then go straight to the source and buy from an authorized dealer in your area.

Install central heating and air conditioning systems in warmer climates

Central air condition systems with heat pumps provide warmth during mild winters without having to have a full boiler unit in the building. This is great for installations in the southern states, like Florida and Texas, where winters rarely get below 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

I recommend: Choose from 13 to 16 SEER heat pump categories at Alpine Home Air Products. Select from a variety of efficiency grades at Trane.

Offer Energy Star small business or home central air systems for environmentally conscious customers

Energy Star has qualified a variety of 14 and 16 SEER systems (and some units up to 21 SEER). When Energy Star puts its label on something, that means it has undergone testing to ensure that it is one of the most energy efficient products on the market. Many of these units use the new R-410a refrigerant, which is safer for the environment.

I recommend: Check out Energy Star-rated condenser units from AC Wholesalers. The majority of the systems offered by the reputable Carrier are Energy Star-certified.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Note that the Environmental Protection Agency has declared that any central air conditioning system installed in a customer's home after Jan. 1, 2010, cannot use R-22 refrigerant. Most condenser units are already being made with the new R-410a refrigerant, which is much more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

If you're going to be installing a new central AC system in your office or you simply need to maintain the central air condition system you have, you'll benefit from reading about central air conditioning systems installation and maintenance. From deciding what type of central air systems you should install to maintenance on your central air conditioning system, gain the knowledge you need with just a little research.

In most cases, you'll want to find pros who know how to install commercial central air conditioning systems. You might even use professionals for maintenance on your central air cooling systems. Or, you might choose to perform some of the routine maintenance on your central air conditioner systems yourself. When it comes to central air conditioning systems installation and maintenance, consider the following:

1. Locate an installer who specializes in commercial central air condition systems.
2. Choose the best type of central air conditioning system to install.
3. Learn how to perform preventive maintenance on your central AC system.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find central air conditioning systems professionals for your installation

In most cases, it is best to leave the installation of central air conditioner systems to the pros. You'll want to find installers who work with a commercial system, rather than a home central AC system. Having some knowledge of central air conditioning systems installation may help you find the right installer for you.

I recommend: From consultations to post-installation inspections, Airco Home Comfort Services offers full professional services for central air conditioning systems installation. Fill out a brief questionnaire on EveryContractor.com to help you find a central air conditioning systems installer who's right for you.

Select the right central air conditioning system for your business

Having some knowledge about various central air conditioning systems will help you decide which type is best for you when it comes time for installation. From split systems to ductless central air condition systems, choosing the right system can make your installation go smoothly. It will also ensure you're installing the right kind of system for your particular building.

I recommend: Air Conditioner Review provides a look at a few different types of central air conditioning systems. The U.S. Department of Energy offers information about the types of central air conditioning systems and also provides installation tips.

Keep your central AC system running at its best with a proper maintenance schedule

From lubricating parts to inspecting relays, central air conditioning systems need routine and preventive maintenance. Some central air conditioning system parts, such as filters, can usually be replaced without the help of a professional. Whether you do it yourself or have someone do it for you, maintenance for your central ac system is vital to its efficient operation.

I recommend: Airconditioning-Filter.com has information about the types of central air conditioning system filters and how to install them. Find do-it-yourself maintenance tips for your central AC system at WC Heating & Air Conditioning. Blanton's Heating & A/C offers a year-round preventive maintenance program for your central air conditioning system.