Understanding Delaware HVAC regulatory oversight is essential for contractors, businesses, and homeowners navigating the state's energy landscape. Delaware's regulatory environment involves multiple agencies overseeing utility rates, contractor licensing, and energy policy. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Delaware HVAC regulations heading into 2026.
The regulatory oversight framework in Delaware is uniform statewide, making it easier for contractors to understand requirements across the entire state. Whether you're an HVAC contractor seeking licensure or a business evaluating Delaware's energy market, understanding these regulatory structures is critical for success.
Delaware Public Service Commission: Primary Regulatory Oversight
The Delaware Public Service Commission (PSC) serves as the primary regulatory body for Delaware's utilities. The PSC regulates electric, natural gas, water, wastewater, and telecommunications utilities operating in the state.
The Delaware PSC consists of five commissioners appointed by the Governor with consent of the Senate. The commission sets utility rates, ensures service quality, and implements state energy policy.
Agency: Delaware Public Service Commission
Address: 861 Silver Lake Blvd., Suite 100, Dover, DE 19904
Phone: (302) 736-7500
Website: https://depsc.delaware.gov/
Delaware HVAC Licensing Requirements for 2026
The Delaware Board of Plumbing, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Examiners governs all HVAC licensing in Delaware. The Board operates under the Division of Professional Regulation (DPR) and requires licensure at the apprentice, journeyman, master, and contractor levels.
Delaware issues two primary HVAC license types: Master HVACR (unrestricted) and Master HVACR Restricted (limited to specific specialties).
Primary HVAC License Types in Delaware
Master HVACR: Can design, install, construct, maintain, service, repair, alter, or modify products or equipment including gas piping in heating and air conditioning, refrigeration, ventilation, or process cooling/heating systems.
Master HVACR Restricted: Limited to one specialty area: Heating (Forced Air Systems, Ventilation, and Gas Piping), Refrigeration, or Air Conditioning. To work in multiple specialties, upgrade to unrestricted Master HVACR.
Pathways to Delaware HVAC Licensure
With Journeyman Certificate: Complete a federally-approved HVACR apprenticeship program (such as through Delaware Department of Labor), then obtain at least two years of work experience under a master licensee after receiving the certificate.
Without Journeyman Certificate: Obtain at least seven years of work experience under supervision of a master licensee. The Board reviews your experience, and if approved, you may take the Apprenticeship By-Pass Exam offered by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Delaware.
By Reciprocity: Delaware has reciprocity agreements with several states. Submit State/Jurisdiction Licensure Verification from each state where you hold or have held a license.
HVAC License Fees and Requirements
The following requirements apply to Delaware HVAC licensing in 2026:
Experience: 2 years post-journeyman OR 7 years under master supervision
Examination: Must pass Master HVACR exam (75% minimum to pass)
EPA Certification: Required for refrigerant work
License Renewal: Even years, expires December 31st
Continuing Education: Not required for Master HVACR license renewal
Exams are administered by Prometric. The exam is open-book with approved reference materials including the International Mechanical Code and International Fuel Gas Code.
Agency: Delaware Division of Professional Regulation
Address: Cannon Building, 861 Silver Lake Blvd., Dover, DE 19904
Phone: (302) 744-4500
Website: https://dpr.delaware.gov/
Reciprocal HVAC Licensing Agreements
Delaware has full reciprocity agreements for Master HVACR with: Connecticut, Iowa, and Maryland.
Delaware has limited reciprocity agreements with: Alabama, Arkansas, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Contractor Registration Requirements
HVAC contractors must also register with the Delaware Division of Revenue:
Resident Contractor: For businesses with a regular place of business in Delaware. Registration fee: $200 (non-bidding on state contracts) or $300 (bidding on state contracts).
Non-Resident Contractor: For businesses without a Delaware location. Must obtain a surety bond in addition to registration.
All contractors must provide proof of workers' compensation and unemployment insurance.
Directory of Delaware Electric Companies
Delaware Investor-Owned Utilities
| Company Name | Website | Utility Type |
|---|---|---|
| Delmarva Power | delmarva.com | Investor-Owned |
Delaware Electric Cooperatives
| Company Name | Website | Utility Type |
|---|---|---|
| Delaware Electric Cooperative | delaware.coop | Cooperative |
Delaware Municipal Utilities
| Company Name | Website | Utility Type |
|---|---|---|
| City of Newark Electric Department | newarkde.gov | Municipal |
| City of Milford Electric Department | cityofmilford.com | Municipal |
| City of Seaford Electric Department | seafordde.com | Municipal |
| Town of Smyrna | smyrna.delaware.gov | Municipal |
| City of Dover Electric Department | cityofdover.com | Municipal |
| Town of Clayton | townofclayton.com | Municipal |
| City of Lewes BPW | lewesbpw.com | Municipal |
