For geothermal contractors, there are the Installer and Service Technician examinations. The Installer test is the shorter exam of the two, and all the questions on this test are also included on the Service Technician exam, which goes into greater detail about troubleshooting issues. Contractors are also encouraged to take the Loop Installer exam, even if they don’t install geothermal loop fields. It’s important for contractors to understand loop basics.

The exams aren’t easy – but installers and service techs with experience and solid manufacturer training shouldn’t have any difficulty passing the tests. The questions cover areas that are very important for geothermal professionals – refrigeration basics, water flow, sizing, etc.

In order to pass the tests, participants need to score 80 percent or more on each exam. Those participants who pass the Service Technician exam will also receive their Installer certificate as well. Participating test-takers can take either test, or both.

GAOI member-contractors can be recognized with these GAOI company certifications when 75 percent of their staff members who install and/or service geothermal equipment have passed the tests. These companies will be recognized on the GAOI web site as having the “GAOI certification” and these member-companies can also use this certification for their own marketing/promotion efforts.

For loop installers there is the Loop Installation examination. The Loop Installation test can be taken by loop installation personnel, as well as any geothermal contractors interested in holding this designation, and/or those contractors that install loops (horizontal or vertical).

GAOI member-contractors can be recognized with this GAOI company certification when at least one representative of the firm has passed the exam. Companies that qualify will be recognized on the GAOI web site as having the “GAOI certification” and these member-companies can also use this accreditation for their own marketing/promotion efforts.

The GAOI has a series of online training programs that GAOI members can access. There are Service Technician, Installation Technician, Loop Installation modules.