HVAC Technician Program

Introduces students to the essential tools, concepts, and procedures used in the HVAC and refrigeration industry. Through hands-on lab activities, students learn the safe operation of HVAC tools while exploring refrigeration principles such as heat transfer, pressure-temperature relationships, and refrigerant properties. The course covers key industry practices including system evacuation, refrigerant recovery and charging, and the replacement of common refrigeration components. Students gain practical experience applying refrigeration theory to real-world service and maintenance tasks. By the end of the course, students will be able to safely use HVAC tools, perform basic refrigeration system procedures, and troubleshoot and replace essential system components.

Introduces students to the operation, installation, and performance evaluation of residential and light commercial air conditioning systems. Through hands-on lab activities, students explore refrigeration cycles, airflow dynamics, and the use of psychrometric tools to analyze air properties and system efficiency. The course also covers the components, functions, and applications of heat pump systems commonly used in residential HVAC environments. Students develop practical skills in system installation, diagnostics, and troubleshooting using industry-standard tools and techniques. By the end of the course, students will be able to evaluate system performance, identify common issues, and apply effective solutions to maintain and optimize air conditioning and heat pump equipment.

Introduces students to the principles of air distribution and HVAC system design for residential and light commercial applications. Students learn how to evaluate airflow performance, including static and dynamic pressure, friction losses, and blower operation. The course covers the proper sizing and selection of ductwork, blowers, diffusers, registers, and grilles to support efficient system performance. Students also develop foundational blueprint reading skills and perform basic load calculations used in HVAC system design and equipment selection. Through hands-on lab activities and performance evaluations, students gain practical experience analyzing and optimizing air distribution systems.

Prepares students to safely handle refrigerants while understanding the environmental and regulatory requirements of the HVAC industry. The course examines common refrigerants, including R-22, R-410A, R-32, and R-454B, with a focus on their properties, applications, and environmental impact. Students learn safe handling procedures for Low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants and explore OSHA standards that promote workplace safety. The course also covers the legal and environmental responsibilities associated with refrigerant recovery, recycling, and disposal. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to take the EPA Section 608 certification exam and demonstrate compliance with industry regulations and safety standards.

This course provides students with a foundational understanding of electrical theory and automatic control systems used in HVAC applications. Through classroom instruction and hands-on lab activities, students learn essential concepts such as household wiring, wire sizing, series and parallel circuits, and current flow. The course emphasizes the safe use of electrical tools and diagnostic meters while introducing the operation and troubleshooting of electric motors, starting devices, and HVAC control components. Students gain practical experience analyzing electrical circuits and evaluating system performance using industry-standard techniques. By the end of the course, students will be able to apply electrical and control system principles to diagnose, troubleshoot, and maintain HVAC equipment safely and effectively.

This course provides students with an introduction to the operation and maintenance of residential heating systems, including gas, electric, and oil-fired equipment. The course explores combustion principles, fuel characteristics, and the function of key components such as gas valves, burners, and ignition systems. Through classroom instruction and hands-on activities, students learn system start-up procedures, sequence of operation, and routine maintenance practices. Emphasis is placed on developing diagnostic and troubleshooting skills to identify and resolve common heating system issues. By the end of the course, students will be able to apply combustion and heating system principles to maintain safe, efficient, and reliable residential heating equipment.

Introduces students to the operation, installation, and maintenance of commercial refrigeration equipment. The course covers the major components of commercial refrigeration systems, including their functions, start-up procedures, and defrost cycle operations. Students learn essential safety practices designed to protect technicians, customers, and equipment during service and maintenance activities. Through hands-on lab exercises, students apply industry-standard techniques to evaluate system performance and troubleshoot common operational issues. By the end of the course, students will have the knowledge and practical skills needed to safely install, maintain, and service commercial refrigeration systems.

Provides students with the skills needed to identify, diagnose, and resolve common mechanical and electrical issues in HVAC systems. Through hands-on training, students learn systematic troubleshooting techniques and how to distinguish between electrical and mechanical faults using industry-standard tools and diagnostic procedures. The course also emphasizes professional customer communication, including explaining technical issues, documenting service calls, and preparing accurate service orders that meet industry and regulatory requirements. Students gain an understanding of workplace safety practices and the importance of following Cal/OSHA standards during service and repair activities. By the end of the course, students will be able to troubleshoot HVAC systems effectively while maintaining professional communication and documentation standards.