Program Overview

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Online HVAC/R Training Course

The Online HVAC/R Training Course is designed to prepare students for an entry-level role in the HVAC/R field. This course will provide students with the basic requirements needed to earn a "work ready" certificate and start an apprenticeship.

Job Outlook for HVAC/R Technicians

• According to 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 technicians is just under $49,000 per year, with top earners making nearly $78,000.

Certified HVAC/R Technician FAQs

What does an HVAC/R Technician do?

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

How do I become an HVAC/R Technician?

To become an HVAC/R technician, one must first work as an apprentice under a licensed technician for up to 2,000 hours. However, apprenticeships are competitive, so having formal training and a "work ready" certificate significantly improves one's chances of success.

Does this course prepare me for work ready certificates?

Yes, this HVAC/R Technician Certification course will prepare students for entry-level work ready certificates, including:

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

Are work ready certificates worth it?

Yes, for job seekers just entering the HVAC/R field, a work ready certificate shows prospective employers that one has a fundamental understanding of HVACR systems, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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 HVAC/R, so there are no prerequisites to take this course. However, a high school diploma or GED is recommended.

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 outs of cooling towers, pumps, and chilled-water systems.

SIMULATION CHALLENGE MODE I

Virtual, hands-on simulation of troubleshooting an HVAC/R system.

SIMULATION CHALLENGE MODE II

Hands-on virtual simulation of routing electricity to an HVAC/R system.

Instructor

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.