HVAC/R Technician

Overview

Start Your Career in HVACR

HVACR is one of the most constant industries for new jobs, so there's no better time to join. This course will prepare you for an entry-level role in the HVAC/R field. You'll understand the basic requirements needed to earn a "work ready" certificate and start an apprenticeship.

What you will learn

• Explain the concepts of heat transfer, Btu, temperature, heat content, sensible heat, latent heat, pressure, gas laws, and work, and describe how they apply to air conditioning and refrigeration systems
• Describe the four basic components that make up the vapor-compression refrigeration cycle
• Identify the four major system components and explain their functions in the refrigeration system
• Properly install an air-conditioning system and put it into operation
• Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical problems in an air-conditioning and heat pump systems

How you will benefit

• You will be prepared to sit for the NATE Ready to Work Certificate Exams
• You will be prepared to sit for the HVAC Excellence Employment Ready Certificate Exams
• You will be prepared to sit for the EPA 608 Refrigerant Handling Certification Exam
• Use real-world simulations included in this program to get "hands-on" experience
• Soft skills simulations included in the course will help sharpen your customer service skills

Job Outlook for HVACR Technicians

According the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), HVAC/R technician jobs are projected to grow 13% over the next eight years, which equals 46,300 new jobs.

The BLS also states that the average salary for these developers is just under $49,000 per year with top earners making nearly $78,000.

Course Objectives

• Understand basic components of the vapor-compression and refrigeration cycles, functions and characteristics of system refrigerants, piping operations
• Learn proper installation and operation of HVAC systems
• Understand EPA laws related to safe handling and transport of refrigerants
• Proper recovery, recycling, and retrofitting of refrigerants

Prerequisites and Requirements

This course is designed for students with little-to-no background in HVACR, so are no prerequisites to take this course. However, we recommend having a high school diploma or GED.

Curriculum

Safety, Tools and Equipment, and Shop Practices

Learn general safety practices as well as how to care for and use all the tools you will come across on the job.

Automatic Controls

Understand automatic control components and applications including troubleshooting for basic through more advanced systems.

Electric Motors

Gain a full understanding of electric motors including types, applications, controls, and troubleshooting techniques.

Commercial Refrigeration

Learn the ins and outs of commercial refrigeration components including evaporators, condensers, compressors, expansion devices, ice machines, special applications and systems, and more.

Air-Conditioning (Cooling)

Understand comfort and psychometrics, air distribution and balance, installation, energy auditing, common conditions, troubleshooting techniques, and more.

All-Weather Systems

Learn about the heat gains and losses that occur in various structures as well as detailed information on both air source and geothermal heat pumps.

Domestic Appliances

Get detailed information on domestic appliances including refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioners.

Commercial Air-Conditioning and Chilled-Water Systems

Learn the ins and out of cooling towers, pumps, and chilled-water systems.

Simulation Challenge Mode - I

Virtual, hands on simulation of troubleshooting an HVACR system.

Simulation Challenge Mode - II

Hands-on virtual simulation of routing electricity to an HVACR system.

Instructors

Mike Baker

Mike Baker has been an instructor since 2011. He was previously an HVAC Program Director at both Virginia College and Vista College. Baker was a HVAC technician for several decades and has experience hiring, training, and managing HVAC Technicians. He holds numerous HVAC Excellence certifications, several Green Mechanical Council certifications, an EPA 608 Universal certification, and Emerson Climate Technology certifications. He has served as both an HVAC Excellence Instructor and Exam Proctor.

Certified HVACR Technician FAQs

What Does an HVACR Technician Do?

Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) technicians, also called installers or mechanics, work on the systems that control the temperature, humidity, and quality of the air in our homes, workplaces, and all other types of buildings.

How Do I Become an HVACR Technician?

To become an HVACR technician, you will first have to work as an apprentice under a licensed technician for up to 2,000 hours. However, apprenticeship are competitive, so having formal training and a "work ready" certificate significantly improve your chances of success.

Does this course prepare me for Work Ready Certificates?

Yes. This HVACR Technician Certification course will prepare you for entry-level work ready certificates:

• HVAC Excellence "Employment Ready" Certificate
• NATE "Ready to Work" Certificate

Are Work Ready Certificates worth it?

Yes. For job seekers just entering the HVACR field, a work ready certificates show prospective employers that you have a fundamental understanding of HVACR systems, maintenance and troubleshooting.