Gas and Oil Home Heating Furnaces - licensed or not, union or not, does it matter?

need some input on these issues. the locals are calling for licensing with stiff disapproval from the non-union contractors. is this good? seems like you need a license to work on plumbing, electric, and cars. why not hvac, carpentry, millwrights, or what not. seems like initials are always good on a resume. just would like some feedback.

This is PDF.Iv'e been doing gas related work since mid 70's.In 1995 the State of Maine said if you are going to work on nat. and propane systems you have to have a license.So 700$ and four months later the Maine State Board of Licensing///Natural Gas and Propane Division handed me my diploma.It was an unlimited license AT FIRST,then it was dropped to only 500,000 btus.However they stated you can get a second license to increase your btu rating.No thanks.I have worked HVAC,resturant cooking equipment,boilers and yes even crematoriums.So every 2 years I send a check to the state for 110$ more.Keep in touch about this subject.PDF

Licensing is a good thing. Been in the business for over 30 yrs. and we have a bad reputation because of it. Most companies pick up kids off the street and train them the "beer can cold" method of a/c. I've worked throughout the country and had to get a license in NC. And your right, Plumbers, electricians, etc. need to be licensed. We work with all that. Great for resumes and pay..

The licensing is being written by the local chapter of pipefitters and plumbers 562. They are wanting about 5000 hours of experience in the field. Plus you have to pass the test to be qualified to work in the county. There is already a requirement for city work but all the non-union small contractors are opposing the county licensing. It's too bad because the license is required for 400,000 btu or 10 ton a/c. This to me seems strictly commercial, but some are thinking that large home with multiple units will fall under the licensing. I'm a member and will be required to pass the test. I have been in the field for 10 years, and will have served 3 years as a pipefitter apprentice. I have paid my dues and I feel that others should show that they are qualified also. Thanks for the feedback.

PDF again.Don't get me wrong I'm glad I sat for my license.However the 4 months of class was not necessary.Could have done same thing in 1 month.fjrachel,you are correct.There were guys sitting in class,whom,I suppose were working for companies that had no idea what was going.Starting with a class of approx. 40 people we ended up with about 25.The 100 question final had about 25 questions that could not have been answered without sitting thru the course.When I took my RSES test for Universal License I did not any courses,just experience in the field.The guys at work and myself were in the first group to sit for the nat/propane class.Several months later found out that we could have conducted classes in our shop,then sat for the test; AND only needed ONE set of books.I have no idea how your licensing,tests,classes or program is to be set up.PDF