Connecticut Limited Heating & Cooling Contractor (S-9) Books Allowed into Exam Package

Prepare for the Connecticut Limited Heating & Cooling Contractor (S-9) examination with a focused package containing the reference materials permitted inside the examination room. This collection brings together the approved HVAC codes, fuel standards, safety regulations, load-calculation resources, refrigeration references, and duct-design materials candidates can use during the open-book trade exam.

The Connecticut S-9 examination covers a wide range of heating and cooling topics. Candidates may encounter questions involving residential load calculations, refrigeration, air-conditioning equipment, heat pumps, furnaces, fuel gas systems, oil-burning equipment, ductwork, ventilation, combustion air, controls, workplace safety, and LP-Gas installations. Preparing with the correct references helps candidates connect these subjects to the codes, tables, formulas, and technical guidance used for the examination.

This package is specifically designed for candidates who need the books allowed into the S-9 examination. It includes Manual J, the International Residential Code, the International Mechanical Code, NFPA 31, NFPA 54, OSHA 29 CFR Part 1926, Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, an ACCA Ductulator, HVAC Duct Construction Standards, and NFPA 58.

Because the S-9 examination is open book, candidates should study with the same materials they plan to bring to the testing center. Familiarity with each reference can help reduce the amount of time spent searching for information. Candidates should know which book applies to each major subject, where important chapters and tables are located, and how to use the index efficiently.

Open-book preparation requires more than collecting the approved references. The examination is timed, and candidates must be able to recognize a topic, choose the correct book, locate the applicable information, and interpret it accurately. Repeated practice with these references can improve navigation speed and help candidates develop an organized approach to code-based and calculation-based questions.

This package does not include supplemental books that are used only for general study outside the testing room. Every item listed in the package is intended to support preparation with materials approved for exam-room use.

What You Get

Each reference supports one or more areas of the Connecticut S-9 examination outline. Candidates are responsible for bringing their approved materials to the testing center and ensuring that each item complies with the current examination rules.

Exam Details

The Connecticut Limited Heating & Cooling Contractor (S-9) trade examination contains 80 questions. Candidates are given three hours to complete the test, and a minimum score of 70 percent is required to pass.

The examination covers the following subject areas:

• Insulation: 2 questions
• Hangers and Supports: 3 questions
• Sound, Vibration, and Seismic Control: 1 question
• Heating and Cooling Principles: 3 questions
• Refrigerants and Refrigeration: 8 questions
• Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing: 3 questions
• Controls: 5 questions
• Air-Conditioning and Heat Pump Equipment: 5 questions
• Furnaces and Heaters: 5 questions
• Hydronics: 2 questions
• Chimneys, Flues, and Vents: 5 questions
• Combustion Air: 2 questions
• Fuel Gas Systems: 10 questions
• Ducts: 6 questions
• Ventilation and Exhaust: 3 questions
• Safety: 4 questions
• Oil Burners: 6 questions
• Load Calculations: 7 questions

Fuel gas systems represent the largest individual section of the examination. Refrigeration, load calculations, ductwork, oil burners, controls, furnaces, heat pumps, and venting also account for substantial portions of the test. Candidates should prepare for every category because the final score is based on overall performance.

With 180 minutes available for 80 questions, candidates have slightly more than two minutes per question on average. This includes the time needed to read the question, identify the correct reference, locate the relevant provision or formula, complete any required calculation, and choose an answer.

The examination may include questions based on the approved references as well as accepted trade knowledge and general industry practices. Code-based questions use the listed code editions, making it important to prepare with the correct materials rather than assuming that provisions from another edition will be identical.

Open Book Test

The Connecticut Limited Heating & Cooling Contractor (S-9) examination is an open-book test. Candidates may bring the approved references in this package into the examination center.

Approved materials may be highlighted, underlined, annotated, and indexed before the examination session. Permanent tabs may be used to mark important chapters, tables, formulas, definitions, and subject areas. Temporary tabs and removable notes are not allowed and must be removed before the examination begins.

Loose papers may not be inserted into or attached to the approved references. Candidates may not write in their books during the examination session. Questions and answers should not be written inside the references, and materials that do not comply with the testing-center requirements may be removed.

A silent, nonprinting, non-programmable calculator may be used during the examination. Candidates should practice performing load calculations, airflow calculations, fuel gas sizing, refrigeration math, and other trade calculations with an acceptable calculator before test day.

For gas pipe-sizing questions based on NFPA 54, candidates must use the longest-length method. Preparation should include identifying the longest piping run, determining the connected demand, selecting the correct table, and finding the required pipe size.

A consistent tabbing system can make the books easier to navigate. Useful categories may include load calculations, refrigeration, controls, heat pumps, furnaces, combustion air, chimneys and vents, gas piping, oil burners, LP-Gas, ducts, ventilation, OSHA safety, and testing and balancing.

Candidates should avoid adding so many tabs that the references become difficult to use. A smaller number of clearly labeled permanent tabs, combined with knowledge of the indexes and chapter layouts, can provide a more efficient exam-day system.

Licensing Steps

The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection regulates heating, piping, and cooling occupational licenses and determines whether applicants qualify to take the S-9 contractor examination.

1. Review the S-9 classification. Confirm that the Limited Heating & Cooling Contractor credential matches the work you intend to perform.
2. Complete the applicable contractor application. Submit the required form and supporting documentation to the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.
3. Document qualifying experience and training. Provide the records required for the licensing pathway under which you are applying.
4. Receive examination eligibility. The state must approve the application before the candidate can register for the required examinations.
5. Schedule the examinations. Follow the instructions provided by the testing provider after eligibility is granted.
6. Prepare the approved references. Study the materials, practice calculations, and organize the exam-room books according to testing-center rules.
7. Pass the required examination portions. Contractor applicants may be required to complete both the S-9 trade examination and the applicable contractor business examination.
8. Complete license issuance. Follow the Department of Consumer Protection’s instructions after satisfying the examination and application requirements.

Applicants should review the current application instructions and candidate bulletin for scheduling procedures, identification requirements, eligibility periods, score-report procedures, and any additional steps required for license issuance.

State Requirements

The Connecticut S-9 credential is a limited heating and cooling contractor license. The classification covers work within the scope and limitations established by the state for qualifying heating and cooling systems, equipment, piping, appliances, devices, and accessories.

Applicants must satisfy the experience, training, application, and examination requirements established by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. Contractor applicants may qualify through the applicable Connecticut journeyperson pathway or through equivalent experience and education accepted by the state.

Supporting documentation may be required to demonstrate licensed journeyperson experience, classroom instruction, apprenticeship training, supervised employment, or equivalent qualifications. The Department of Consumer Protection reviews the submitted records and determines examination eligibility.

The S-9 license is a contractor-level credential. Candidates pursuing this classification should understand that passing the trade examination is one part of the licensing process. A business examination and other administrative requirements may also apply.

Heating and cooling license classifications may differ in the systems, building types, equipment capacities, and work activities they cover. Applicants should review the official Connecticut scope of work to ensure that S-9 is the appropriate classification for their intended services.

Reference Books

• Manual J – Residential Load Calculations, Reprinted 2016, Eighth Full Edition
  This ACCA manual supports residential heating and cooling load calculations. It addresses heat loss, heat gain, design conditions, construction assemblies, windows, doors, infiltration, ventilation, orientation, and other factors used to determine residential loads.
• International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, 2021
  This residential code covers qualifying one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses. It supports review of residential mechanical installations, fuel gas systems, appliance requirements, duct systems, combustion air, venting, ventilation, and equipment clearances.
• International Mechanical Code, 2021
  This code addresses mechanical systems and equipment, including installation, maintenance, ventilation, exhaust, ducts, combustion air, refrigeration, hydronic systems, chimneys, vents, appliances, and related safety requirements.
• NFPA 31: Standard for the Installation of Oil-Burning Equipment, 2011
  NFPA 31 provides requirements for oil-burning equipment and associated fuel systems. It supports preparation involving oil storage, tanks, fuel supply piping, burners, controls, combustion, equipment placement, venting, and installation safeguards.
• NFPA 54: National Fuel Gas Code Handbook, 2012
  This handbook supports study of fuel gas piping, sizing, materials, joints, valves, pressure, appliance connections, testing, combustion air, venting, and gas-fired equipment installation.
• Code of Federal Regulations – 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA)
  This federal construction-safety reference addresses workplace requirements that may apply to HVAC construction activities. Topics include personal protective equipment, fall protection, ladders, scaffolds, electrical safety, tools, excavation, material handling, and jobsite practices.
• Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition
  This technical reference covers refrigeration principles, refrigerants, compressors, condensers, evaporators, metering devices, air-conditioning systems, heat pumps, furnaces, controls, electrical systems, installation, service, and troubleshooting.
• ACCA Ductulator
  This airflow and duct-sizing tool helps candidates work with duct dimensions, airflow, friction rate, velocity, and pressure-loss relationships. It supports practical preparation for duct-sizing questions.
• HVAC Duct Construction Standards, Metal and Flexible, 2005, 3rd Edition
  This SMACNA standard covers construction and installation practices for metal and flexible duct systems. It includes information on materials, joints, reinforcement, supports, pressure classifications, fabrication, and duct construction requirements.
• NFPA 58: Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code, 2014
  NFPA 58 addresses the storage, handling, transportation, and use of LP-Gas. It supports preparation involving containers, cylinders, tanks, regulators, piping, valves, separation distances, equipment locations, system protection, and safety.

Exam Room Approved Books

The following references are included in this package and approved for use inside the Connecticut S-9 examination room:

• Manual J – Residential Load Calculations, Eighth Full Edition
• International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, 2021
• International Mechanical Code, 2021
• NFPA 31: Standard for the Installation of Oil-Burning Equipment, 2011
• NFPA 54: National Fuel Gas Code Handbook, 2012
• Code of Federal Regulations – 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA)
• Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition
• ACCA Ductulator
• HVAC Duct Construction Standards, Metal and Flexible, 2005, 3rd Edition
• NFPA 58: Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code, 2014

Candidates must bring their own approved references. The testing center does not provide each candidate with a personal set of books. Preparing and organizing the materials in advance allows candidates to make better use of the open-book format.

Test Information and Study Materials

A productive study plan should follow the examination outline. Begin with fuel gas systems, refrigeration, load calculations, ductwork, and oil burners because these areas account for many of the examination questions. Continue with controls, furnaces, heat pumps, chimneys and vents, safety, ventilation, combustion air, balancing, and heating and cooling principles.

Practice using Manual J to identify design conditions, construction characteristics, heat-transfer values, infiltration, ventilation, and other inputs used in residential load calculations. Become familiar with the manual’s worksheets, tables, and terminology.

Use Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning to review the refrigeration cycle, refrigerants, compressors, condensers, evaporators, metering devices, heat pumps, controls, electrical components, charging, testing, and troubleshooting.

Study NFPA 54 for natural gas systems, NFPA 31 for oil-burning equipment, and NFPA 58 for LP-Gas installations. Practice distinguishing between the requirements for different fuels and equipment types.

Use the ACCA Ductulator and HVAC Duct Construction Standards together when preparing for duct questions. Review airflow, velocity, friction rate, dimensions, pressure classifications, joints, reinforcement, flexible duct, and support requirements.

Complete timed practice using the same references and calculator intended for exam day. When a question is difficult, identify the likely reference and use the index before searching through entire chapters. Read all applicable notes, exceptions, table headings, and footnotes before choosing an answer.

How 1 Exam Prep Helps You Reach Your Goal

1 Exam Prep helps Connecticut S-9 candidates prepare with an organized collection of the references approved for use inside the examination room. Bringing these materials together in one package allows candidates to focus on studying, calculation practice, and efficient book navigation.

Trade-focused review connects each examination category with the appropriate resource. Manual J supports load calculations, Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning covers refrigeration and equipment, NFPA 54 addresses fuel gas, NFPA 31 covers oil burners, and NFPA 58 supports LP-Gas preparation.

Reference-navigation practice helps candidates become familiar with indexes, chapter layouts, formulas, tables, definitions, and permanent tabs. A structured navigation method can reduce unnecessary searching during the three-hour examination.

Practice-oriented preparation also helps identify areas that need more review. Candidates can work through questions, locate the supporting provision, and strengthen their understanding of heating, cooling, refrigeration, ducts, controls, fuel systems, safety, and load calculations.

No preparation product can guarantee a passing score or license approval. Consistent study, qualifying trade experience, accurate calculations, organized references, and effective time management remain essential parts of exam preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Connecticut S-9 examination open book?

Yes. The Connecticut Limited Heating & Cooling Contractor examination is open book. Candidates may bring approved references into the testing center under the current examination rules.

Are all the materials in this package allowed into the exam?

Yes. This package is limited to the books and reference tools identified for use inside the Connecticut S-9 examination room.

How many questions are on the S-9 examination?

The S-9 trade examination contains 80 questions. Candidates have three hours to complete the test and must earn a minimum score of 70 percent.

Can the books be highlighted and tabbed?

Approved references may be highlighted, underlined, annotated, and indexed before the examination. Permanent tabs are permitted. Temporary tabs, removable notes, and loose inserted papers are prohibited.

Can I write in the references during the examination?

No. Candidates may not write in their books during the examination session. All permitted highlighting, annotations, and permanent indexing should be completed before test day.

Does the examination include load calculations?

Yes. Load calculations are included in the examination outline. Manual J is the approved reference used to prepare for residential heating and cooling load-calculation questions.

What gas pipe-sizing method should I study?

Candidates should practice the longest-length method for gas pipe-sizing questions associated with NFPA 54.

Is the Ductulator allowed into the testing center?

Yes. The ACCA Ductulator is included as an approved examination-room reference tool for duct-sizing and airflow questions.

Does purchasing the package guarantee a passing score?

No. Examination results depend on the candidate’s trade knowledge, preparation, calculation ability, reference-navigation skills, time management, and performance on test day.