Florida Air A and Air B Contractor Exam Complete Book Set - Trade Books

The Florida Air A and Air B Contractor Exam Complete Book Set - Trade Books is designed for candidates preparing for the Florida Air Conditioning Class A or Class B contractor trade knowledge examination. This complete trade book set brings together the HVAC, mechanical code, energy code, safety, duct construction, refrigeration, ventilation, estimating, and contractor reference materials used for focused exam preparation.

Florida Air A and Air B contractor candidates are tested on more than general HVAC experience. The trade exam requires candidates to understand air conditioning systems, refrigeration principles, warm air heating, duct construction, ventilation standards, commercial kitchen ventilation, safety requirements, Florida mechanical code provisions, energy conservation requirements, piping references, and practical troubleshooting. This book set supports those study areas by giving candidates the listed references needed to prepare for the technical side of the examination.

This product is for the trade book set only. It is built for students who already know they need the Air A or Air B trade references and want the required study materials in one organized package. The books support preparation for the technical examination, not the Business and Finance portion. Candidates preparing for Florida contractor licensing should also make sure they understand all exam parts required for their specific license classification.

The Florida Air Conditioning Class A license and Class B license both involve HVAC contracting, but the scope of work differs by classification. Class A is the broader air-conditioning contractor classification, while Class B is limited in size and capacity. Even with those differences, many trade preparation references overlap, and this complete trade book set is designed for candidates preparing for the Florida Air A and Air B contractor trade exam content.

Because the Florida construction contractor exams are open book, owning the books is only part of preparation. Candidates also need to study the references, learn where important topics are located, and practice using the materials under timed conditions. A strong open book strategy includes understanding the purpose of each book, knowing how to use the index and table of contents, and becoming familiar with code sections, tables, definitions, and system information before exam day.

The trade knowledge exam can feel challenging because it draws from many different types of references. One question may involve refrigeration troubleshooting, another may involve OSHA safety rules, and another may require a Florida Building Code provision or SMACNA duct construction standard. This complete book set helps candidates prepare with the same types of technical references used throughout the exam preparation process.

Exam Details

The Florida Air A and Air B contractor trade examination is part of the Florida construction contractor examination program. Construction examinations are connected with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation and the Construction Industry Licensing Board. Professional Testing, Inc. handles construction examination registration, development, and scoring, and approved candidates schedule computer-based examinations through Pearson VUE.

The Air Conditioning Class A and Air Conditioning Class B trade knowledge exams are designed to measure technical knowledge related to HVAC contracting. Candidates should be prepared for questions involving air conditioning and refrigeration systems, equipment troubleshooting, duct systems, ventilation, warm air heating, mechanical code requirements, energy conservation, OSHA safety requirements, piping references, and related construction trade practices.

Florida construction examination scores use a passing score of 70 percent. Passing the trade knowledge examination is an important step in the licensing process, but it does not automatically issue a contractor license. Candidates must complete the licensing requirements that apply to their classification through the state licensing process.

Many Florida contractor candidates must complete more than one examination part. Air Conditioning Class A and Class B contractor candidates should prepare for the trade knowledge examination and the Business and Finance examination when required for the licensing path. The trade book set supports the technical exam preparation portion and does not replace business and finance study materials.

The trade exam is technical and reference-based. Candidates should prepare by studying core HVAC principles and by learning how to locate information efficiently in the approved references. A well-prepared candidate understands both the concepts and the books. That means reviewing system operation, safety, code language, duct standards, energy requirements, and practical troubleshooting while also practicing open book navigation.

Since the exam is timed, candidates should not rely on flipping through books randomly. The best preparation happens when candidates build a working knowledge of the references before the test. This includes knowing which book is most useful for refrigeration troubleshooting, which references address duct construction, which codes apply to mechanical and energy requirements, and where safety rules are located.

Open Book Test

The Florida Air A and Air B contractor trade exams are open book examinations. Candidates may bring approved references into the testing room, but only the reference materials allowed for the exam may be used. Open book testing makes the reference set an essential part of preparation, but it also means candidates must know how to use the books quickly and accurately.

Open book does not mean unlimited materials. Candidates must follow the testing rules for approved references, book condition, binding, highlighting, and tabs. Only one copy of each allowed reference may be brought into the exam site. Reference materials must remain bound during the examination. Candidates should prepare their books according to the testing rules before exam day.

For an HVAC trade exam, open book preparation should include more than reading. Candidates should practice finding mechanical code sections, energy code provisions, OSHA standards, duct construction tables, refrigeration information, ventilation requirements, and troubleshooting references. The more familiar a candidate becomes with each book, the easier it is to choose the correct reference during the exam.

Book navigation is a major exam skill. A question involving commercial cooking ventilation may point toward NFPA 96. A question involving air distribution duct construction may point toward a SMACNA duct standard. A question involving Florida mechanical code requirements may require the Florida Building Code - Mechanical. A question involving energy performance may require the Florida Building Code - Energy Conservation or the energy-efficient construction reference. Candidates should practice making those connections before test day.

This complete trade book set gives candidates the references needed to build that type of open book familiarity. The goal is to turn the book set into a working study system, not just a stack of materials. Candidates who study actively, review the indexes, mark allowed areas properly, and practice timed reference lookup can approach the exam with stronger confidence.

Licensing Steps

Florida contractor licensing steps vary by classification, but candidates generally begin by identifying the license category they want to pursue and determining which examination parts are required. Air Conditioning Class A and Class B contractor candidates should prepare for the trade knowledge exam and any other required examination parts connected to their licensing path.

Candidates apply for the Florida construction examination process through Professional Testing, Inc. Once approved, candidates schedule the computer-based examination through Pearson VUE. Exam appointments are based on testing center availability, and candidates are responsible for following the scheduling, identification, and exam-day requirements that apply to their test.

Before the exam, candidates should review the approved reference list for the examination format and specialty. The reference list identifies the books allowed for that exam. Candidates should bring only approved materials and should make sure each reference complies with testing rules for binding, markings, and tabs.

On exam day, candidates must bring proper identification and follow testing center procedures. Reference materials are subject to inspection, and prohibited notes or materials can create exam-day problems. Candidates should prepare their books early and avoid waiting until the final days before the exam to organize their materials.

After passing the required examination parts, candidates continue with the license application process through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. Additional licensing requirements may apply based on the classification and applicant qualifications. This complete trade book set supports exam preparation and reference study for the Air A and Air B technical exam portion.

State Requirements

Florida regulates construction contractors through state licensing requirements. Air Conditioning Class A and Class B contractor candidates must meet the state requirements that apply to the license classification being pursued. The examination process is one part of that licensing path.

The trade knowledge exam is intended to measure whether the candidate understands the technical responsibilities involved in HVAC contracting. Those responsibilities may include system installation, service, repair, troubleshooting, safety compliance, mechanical code requirements, ventilation, duct construction, refrigeration, energy conservation, and related trade practices.

Class A and Class B air-conditioning contractor classifications are not identical. The Class A classification allows a broader scope, while the Class B classification is limited by system size and heating capacity. Candidates should understand the scope of the license they are pursuing and prepare for the exam requirements that apply to that classification.

Florida contractor candidates should also remember that passing an exam does not automatically create a license. The state licensing process may include application requirements, qualification review, financial responsibility requirements, insurance requirements, background information, and other items based on the license category. The exam is a major step, but it is only one part of the overall process.

This complete trade book set is focused on the technical preparation side. It gives candidates the listed HVAC and code references used to study the Air A and Air B trade content, including refrigeration, duct systems, safety, Florida codes, NFPA standards, SMACNA standards, and practical HVAC reference materials.

Reference Books

The Florida Air A and Air B Contractor Exam Complete Book Set - Trade Books includes the following trade references. Each title supports a specific part of HVAC contractor exam preparation.

• Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Troubleshooting Handbook, 2nd Edition, 2003
  This reference supports preparation in HVAC and refrigeration troubleshooting, system diagnosis, service procedures, operating problems, and technical problem-solving for air conditioning and refrigeration equipment.
• Code of Federal Regulations - 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA)
  This safety reference supports study of construction industry safety requirements, jobsite hazards, worker protection rules, equipment safety, and OSHA standards that may apply to HVAC construction work.
• Contractors Manual, 2025
  This contractor reference supports review of construction business and trade-related administrative material, project responsibilities, contractor procedures, and practical information connected to licensed contracting.
• Pipefitters Handbook, 3rd Ed.
  This field reference supports study of pipefitting data, fittings, calculations, layout information, and piping reference material that can be useful for mechanical and HVAC trade questions.
• NFPA 90A Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilating Systems, 2015
  This standard supports study of air conditioning and ventilating system installation requirements, duct system fire safety, equipment rooms, air distribution, and related building safety provisions.
• NFPA 90B Installation of Warm Air Heating and Air Conditioning Systems, 2024
  This standard supports preparation in warm air heating and air conditioning systems, installation requirements, residential-style system provisions, and related safety concepts.
• NFPA 96, Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations, 2021
  This standard supports study of commercial kitchen ventilation, exhaust systems, grease removal devices, fire protection, hood systems, ductwork, and cleaning-related requirements.
• SMACNA - Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards, 8th Edition, 2021
  This duct construction standard supports preparation in fibrous glass duct systems, fabrication requirements, construction methods, installation details, and duct system performance considerations.
• HVAC Duct Construction Standards, Metal and Flexible
  This SMACNA duct reference supports study of metal and flexible duct construction, duct reinforcement, sealing, supports, fittings, pressure classes, and air distribution system construction practices.
• SMACNA - Energy Systems Analysis and Management, 2nd Edition, 2014
  This reference supports study of HVAC energy analysis, system performance, energy management, building energy use, and practical evaluation of heating, cooling, and ventilation systems.
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology, 10th Edition
  This textbook supports broad HVAC and refrigeration preparation, including system components, refrigeration cycle principles, electrical controls, troubleshooting, service practices, installation concepts, and applied HVAC theory.
• Ductulator
  This tool supports duct sizing and air distribution calculations. Candidates can use it during preparation to become more comfortable with duct sizing relationships and airflow concepts.
• Energy Efficient Building Construction in Florida, 2024
  This reference supports preparation in Florida-specific energy-efficient construction practices, building performance concepts, climate considerations, and energy-related construction requirements.
• Florida Building Code - Mechanical, 2023
  This code reference supports study of Florida mechanical system requirements, ventilation, duct systems, equipment installation, exhaust systems, combustion air, refrigeration, and related mechanical code provisions.
• Florida Building Code - Energy Conservation, 2023
  This code reference supports study of Florida energy conservation requirements, HVAC efficiency provisions, building envelope coordination, system controls, duct insulation, and energy compliance concepts.

Exam Room Approved Books

The Florida Air A and Air B trade examination is open book, and candidates may bring only approved references for the exam. The provided trade book set includes the following exam preparation references:

• Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Troubleshooting Handbook, 2nd Edition, 2003
  Used for HVAC and refrigeration troubleshooting, system diagnosis, and service-related technical review.
• Code of Federal Regulations - 29 CFR Part 1926 (OSHA)
  Used for construction safety standards and OSHA jobsite safety requirements.
• Contractors Manual, 2025
  Used for contractor reference material and construction-related administrative study.
• Pipefitters Handbook, 3rd Ed.
  Used for pipefitting information, fitting data, layout support, and piping reference material.
• NFPA 90A Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilating Systems, 2015
  Used for air conditioning and ventilating system installation and safety requirements.
• NFPA 90B Installation of Warm Air Heating and Air Conditioning Systems, 2024
  Used for warm air heating and air conditioning system installation requirements.
• NFPA 96, Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations, 2021
  Used for commercial cooking ventilation, exhaust, grease control, and fire protection requirements.
• SMACNA - Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards, 8th Edition, 2021
  Used for fibrous glass duct construction and installation requirements.
• HVAC Duct Construction Standards, Metal and Flexible
  Used for metal and flexible duct construction, reinforcement, support, and duct system standards.
• SMACNA - Energy Systems Analysis and Management, 2nd Edition, 2014
  Used for HVAC energy analysis, system evaluation, and energy management concepts.
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology, 10th Edition
  Used for broad HVAC and refrigeration theory, systems, components, and troubleshooting preparation.
• Ductulator
  Used for duct sizing and airflow reference during HVAC preparation.
• Energy Efficient Building Construction in Florida, 2024
  Used for Florida energy-efficient construction and building performance concepts.
• Florida Building Code - Mechanical, 2023
  Used for Florida mechanical code requirements related to HVAC and mechanical systems.
• Florida Building Code - Energy Conservation, 2023
  Used for Florida energy conservation requirements and HVAC energy compliance provisions.

Candidates should prepare these references according to the testing rules and should use them during study sessions before exam day. Familiarity with the references can make a major difference during an open book exam.

Test Information and Study Materials

A strong study plan for the Florida Air A and Air B contractor trade exam should include HVAC theory, code review, duct construction standards, refrigeration troubleshooting, safety, energy conservation, and timed reference practice. Since the exam is open book, candidates should build both technical knowledge and book-navigation skill.

Refrigeration and air conditioning topics should be studied with attention to system components, operating principles, refrigerant flow, service procedures, troubleshooting methods, controls, and common equipment problems. The Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology reference and troubleshooting handbook support this core technical study.

Duct system preparation should include duct sizing, duct construction, pressure class concepts, sealing, supports, reinforcement, flexible duct requirements, fibrous glass duct construction, and air distribution practices. The SMACNA references and ductulator help candidates study duct systems from both a standards-based and practical calculation perspective.

Code preparation should focus on how to locate information in the Florida Building Code - Mechanical and Florida Building Code - Energy Conservation. Candidates should become comfortable with definitions, tables, system requirements, ventilation provisions, equipment installation rules, exhaust requirements, energy conservation provisions, duct insulation, and controls.

Safety preparation should include OSHA construction standards that apply to mechanical contracting work. Candidates should review worker protection, ladders, scaffolds, electrical safety, hazard communication, personal protective equipment, excavation awareness, and jobsite safety responsibilities.

NFPA standards should be studied by topic. NFPA 90A supports air conditioning and ventilating system installation. NFPA 90B supports warm air heating and air conditioning system requirements. NFPA 96 supports commercial cooking ventilation and fire protection. Candidates should understand which NFPA reference applies to which type of system or situation.

Timed practice is essential. Candidates should practice identifying the subject of a question, choosing the correct reference, locating the relevant section, and answering efficiently. The goal is to reduce wasted time and avoid using the wrong book for the question. A complete trade book set is most useful when students actively study with it before exam day.

How 1 Exam Prep Helps You Reach Your Goal

1 Exam Prep helps Florida Air A and Air B contractor candidates prepare with organized study resources, trade-focused materials, and practical exam preparation support. This complete trade book set gives candidates the reference library needed to study HVAC systems, mechanical code, energy code, duct construction, refrigeration, ventilation, safety, and related trade subjects.

The Florida Air A and Air B contractor trade exam can feel overwhelming because it pulls from many books. 1 Exam Prep helps students approach preparation with structure by offering complete book packages that keep the required materials together. Instead of trying to track down each reference separately, candidates can focus on learning the content and practicing how to use the books.

Reference navigation is one of the most important skills for an open book contractor exam. Students need to know which book applies to each type of question and how to find information efficiently. By studying with the complete trade book set, candidates can build a stronger understanding of where code provisions, duct standards, refrigeration information, safety rules, and system requirements are located.

This book set is also helpful for experienced HVAC professionals who have strong field knowledge but need to prepare for a formal licensing exam. Field experience is valuable, but exam preparation requires familiarity with code books, standards, technical references, and timed question practice. 1 Exam Prep supports candidates by helping them gather the materials needed for a more organized preparation routine.

1 Exam Prep does not guarantee a passing score or licensing approval. This complete trade book set is designed to support serious preparation by giving candidates the references needed to study and practice for the Florida Air A and Air B contractor trade exam.

FAQ Section

What is included in the Florida Air A and Air B Contractor Exam Complete Book Set - Trade Books?

This set includes the listed HVAC, mechanical code, energy code, OSHA, NFPA, SMACNA, refrigeration, duct sizing, and contractor trade references used for Florida Air A and Air B contractor exam preparation.

Is this book set for the trade exam only?

Yes. This product is presented as the trade book set. Candidates who also need Business and Finance preparation should use the appropriate Business and Finance books or course materials for that exam part.

Is the Florida Air A and Air B contractor exam open book?

Yes. Florida construction contractor examinations are open book, but candidates may bring only approved references that comply with the testing rules.

Can I bring all of these books into the exam room?

Candidates may bring only the references approved for their specific examination. This trade book set includes the provided Air A and Air B preparation references, and candidates should prepare the books according to the testing rules before exam day.

What topics should I study for the Air A and Air B trade exam?

Candidates should study air conditioning systems, refrigeration, troubleshooting, duct construction, ventilation, warm air heating, OSHA safety, Florida mechanical code, Florida energy conservation code, commercial cooking ventilation, and HVAC energy management.

What is the difference between Florida Air A and Air B?

Florida Air Conditioning Class A is the broader classification, while Class B is limited by system size and heating capacity. Candidates should understand the scope of the classification they are pursuing before applying for licensure.

Does this set include the Florida Building Code books?

Yes. The provided list includes Florida Building Code - Mechanical, 2023 and Florida Building Code - Energy Conservation, 2023.

Does this set include NFPA and SMACNA references?

Yes. The provided list includes NFPA 90A, NFPA 90B, NFPA 96, SMACNA Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards, HVAC Duct Construction Standards, and SMACNA Energy Systems Analysis and Management.

Who handles Florida construction examination registration and scoring?

Professional Testing, Inc. handles construction examination registration, development, and scoring. Approved candidates schedule computer-based examinations through Pearson VUE.

Does buying this book set guarantee that I will pass?

No. No book set can guarantee an exam result. This complete trade book set is designed to support preparation, reference study, and open book exam practice for the Florida Air A and Air B contractor trade exam.