Heating/Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC)

Key content includes: Introduction to HVAC, Trade Mathematics, Basic Electricity, Introduction to Heating, Introduction to Cooling, Introduction to Air Distribution Systems, Basic Copper and Plastic Piping Practices, Soldering and Brazing, and Basic Carbon Steel Piping Practices.

Covers the basic principles of heating, ventilating, and air conditioning, career opportunities in HVAC, and how apprenticeship programs are constructed. Basic safety principles, as well as trade licensure and EPA guidelines, are also introduced.

Explains how to solve HVAC/R trade-related problems involving the measurement of lines, area, volume, weights, angles, pressure, vacuum, and temperature. Also includes a review of scientific notation, powers, roots, and basic algebra and geometry.

Introduces the concept of power generation and distribution, common electrical components, AC and DC circuits, and electrical safety as it relates to the HVAC field. Introduces reading and interpreting wiring diagrams.

Covers the fundamentals of heating systems and the combustion process. The different types and designs of gas furnaces and their components, as well as basic procedures for their installation and service, is provided.

Explains the fundamental operating concepts of the refrigeration cycle and identifies both primary and secondary components found in typical HVAC/R systems. Common refrigerants are introduced as well. Describes the principles of heat transfer and the essential pressure temperature relationships of refrigerants. Basic control concepts for simple systems are also introduced.

Describes the factors related to air movement and its measurement in common air distribution systems. The required mechanical equipment and materials used to create air distribution systems are also presented. Basic system design principles for both hot and cold climates are introduced.

Explains how to identify types of copper tubing and fittings used in the HVAC/R industry and how they are mechanically joined. The identification and application of various types of plastic piping, along with their common assembly and installation practices, are also presented.

Introduces the equipment, techniques, and materials used to safely join copper tubing through both soldering and brazing. The required PPE, preparation, and work processes are covered in detail. The procedures for brazing copper to dissimilar materials are also provided.

Explains how to identify various carbon steel piping materials and fittings. The joining and installation of threaded and grooved carbon steel piping systems is covered, with detailed coverage of threading and grooving techniques included.

Key content includes: Alternating current, Compressors, Refrigerants and Oils, Leak Detection Evacuation Recovery and Charging, Metering Devices, Heat Pumps, Basic Maintenance, Chimneys Vents and Flues, Sheet Metal Duct Systems, Fiberglass and Fabric Duct Systems, Commercial Airside Systems, Air quality Equipment, and Introduction to Hydronic Systems.

Presents the basic concepts of alternating current generation and use. It also discusses how single- and three-phase alternating current is used to power resistive and inductive circuits in HVAC/R equipment. Various types of transformers used in HVAC systems are identified. The basic operation of single- and three-phase motors is explained. In addition, the process of safely testing AC-powered devices is covered.

Presents refrigerant compressors. Since the compressor is considered the heart of any HVAC system, its good health and well-being are crucial to overall system performance and reliability. Compressors can take many forms, but they all perform the same basic function. They create the pressure differential in the system that allows refrigerant to move through the metering device and through the condenser and evaporator coils where heat is exchanged. Because the compressor is the most expensive component in most HVAC systems, it is important that technicians be able to correctly diagnose and correct problems that can affect compressor operation to avoid a costly compressor replacement.

Discusses the refrigerants and oils used in modern refrigeration and air conditioning systems. Today, new technologies and stringent environmental laws are driving changes in the HVAC industry. Older refrigerants that damage the environment are being phased out and replaced with more environmentally-friendly refrigerants. These new refrigerants often require new compressor lubricating oils. These modern refrigerants and oils also have new handling and service requirements with which technicians must be familiar.

Provides trainees with guidance related to servicing the refrigerant circuit of HVAC systems. The four essential service tasks—leak detection, evacuation, recovery, and charging—are covered in detail. In addition, information related to the US EPA’s requirements for providing these services in an environmentally sound manner are also provided. Developing the necessary skills to provide these services are vital to the future success of trainees in the HVAC/R trade. To that end, a significant amount of this module is devoted to hands-on practice and the successful completion of its required performance tasks.

Introduces metering devices used in the mechanical refrigeration cycle. The primary function of metering devices is presented, along with related components such as the distributor. The operation of capillary tube, fixed-orifice, and expansion-type metering devices is explored in detail. In addition, the process of selecting and installing thermal expansion valves specifically is covered.

Introduces heat pumps, a very efficient form of electric heat. Compared to straight electric heat, heat pumps can consistently operate at higher energy efficiency. This module presents the operation of heat pump systems in detail with additional emphasis on the most common form of supplemental heat, electric resistance heating elements. The installation considerations of both split and packaged heat pumps systems are also reviewed.

An introduction to common tasks associated with the basic maintenance of HVACR systems. Specific tasks, such as lubrication and belt installation, are discussed in detail. In addition, the module describes the general procedures for performing inspections and periodic maintenance of gas furnaces and common cooling/heat pump systems, including how to complete the required documentation.

Covers the chimneys, vents, and flues that are used with fuel-burning furnaces and boilers. All fuel-burning appliances must have adequate air for complete combustion and must have a means to safely remove the products of combustion. Different types of fuel-fired furnaces and boilers have different and unique requirements for venting the products of combustion.

Covers sheet metal duct systems. While other materials can be used to fabricate air ducts, sheet metal has been and continues to be one of the most popular materials for this purpose. Major advantages of sheet metal ducts systems include low resistance to airflow, strength, and durability. In addition to using time-tested assembly methods, modern sheet metal duct systems need to be sealed to prevent leakage of conditioned air, and insulated to prevent heat loss or heat gain through the walls of the duct.

Reviews the application and methods of fabricating fiberglass duct systems. In addition, the installation guidelines for installing a fiberglass system are presented, along with the methods to repair damaged components. The module concludes with coverage of fabric-based duct systems, which have become increasingly popular in a variety of applications.

Introduces the air distribution systems used in commercial structures such as schools and office buildings that are divided into comfort heating and cooling zones. The module covers the various types of systems, as well as the air terminals and air source equipment used in these systems. Accessories commonly used with commercial systems are also covered.

Introduces the factors related to indoor air quality and human comfort. Since humidity is a common comfort factor for all types of buildings, the equipment used to control humidity is presented in detail. The module also covers the air filtration materials and the introduction of outside air into the indoor environment.

Introduces hydronic heating systems. In hydronic heating systems, fluids (typically water) are used to transfer heat. Fuels such as gas or oil are used to heat the water in a boiler. Pumps then circulate that heated water throughout the structure where terminal devices such as radiators release the heat into different areas.

Key content includes: Fasteners, Hardware and Wiring Terminations, Control Circuit and Motor Troubleshooting, Troubleshooting Cooling, Troubleshooting Heat Pumps, Troubleshooting Gas Heating, Troubleshooting Oil Heating, Troubleshooting Accessories, Zoning, Ductless, and Variable Refrigerant Flow Systems, Commercial Hydronic Systems, Steam Systems, Retail Refrigeration Systems, and Customer Relations

Covers a variety of fasteners, hardware, and wiring terminations used in HVAC systems including the installation of these components.

Provides information and skills to troubleshoot control circuits and electric motors found in heating and cooling equipment.

Provides guidance related to troubleshooting cooling systems.

Provides a thorough review of heat pump systems, operating cycle, and troubleshooting procedures for components.

Covers information and skills needed to troubleshoot gas-fired furnaces and boilers.

Describes the construction and operation of oil-fired heating systems and their components. Includes servicing and testing of oil furnaces and procedures for isolating and correcting oil furnace malfunctions.

Delivers information and skills needed to troubleshoot various air treatment accessories used with heating and cooling equipment.

Introduces the information and skills needed to troubleshoot and repair zoned, ductless, and variable refrigerant flow systems.

Reviews basic properties of water and describes how water pressure is related to the movement of water through piping systems. Describes various types and components of commercial hot-water heating and chilled-water cooling systems, and examines how those systems function.

Focuses on the use of steam for storing and moving energy in HVAC systems. Reviews the fundamentals of water that relate to steam and describes the basic steam system cycle. Discusses a steam system’s operational components—steam boilers and their accessories and controls; steam system loads, including heat exchangers/converters and terminal devices. Steam system valves and piping are covered in detail, including common types of piping arrangements, the components of a condensate return/ feedwater system, steam and condensate pipe sizing; and pressure-reducing valves and thermostatic valves.

Covers the applications, principles, and troubleshooting of retail refrigeration systems.

Presents the importance of establishing good relations with customers and provides guidance on how to achieve that goal. Focuses on ways for a technician to make a good first impression and describes how to communicate in a positive manner with customers. The elements of a service call and dealing with different types of problem customers are also covered.

Key content includes: Water Treatment, Indoor Air Quality, Energy Conservation Equipment, Building Management Systems, System Air Balancing, Construction Drawings and Specifications, Heating and Cooling System Design, Commercial and Industrial Refrigeration Systems, Alternative and Specialized Heating and Cooling Systems, and Fundamentals of Crew Leadership.

Explains water problems encountered in heating and cooling systems and identifies water treatment methods and equipment. Covers basic water testing procedures and chemistry.

Defines the issues associated with indoor air quality and its effect on the health and comfort of building occupants. Provides guidelines for performing an IAQ survey and covers the equipment and methods used to monitor and control indoor air quality.

Covers heat recovery/reclaim devices, as well as other energy recovery equipment used to reduce energy consumption in HVAC systems.

Explains how computers and microprocessors are used to manage zoned HVAC systems. Provides coverage of various network protocols and systems controllers, and introduces trainees to the various means of connection and system interface.

Covers air properties and gas laws, as well as the use of psychrometric charts. Describes the tools, instruments, and procedures used to balance an air distribution system.

Presents the procedures for the startup and shutdown of hot water, steam heating, chilled water, and air handling systems. Also covers the start-up and shutdown of typical cooling towers and packaged HVAC units. The procedures for both short- and long-term shutdowns are included.

Teaches how to interpret drawings used in commercial construction, including mechanical drawings, specifications, shop drawings, and as-builts. Explains how to perform takeoff procedures for equipment, fittings, ductwork, and other components.

Identifies factors that affect heating and cooling loads. Explains the process by which heating and cooling loads are calculated, and how load calculations are used in the selection of heating and cooling equipment. Covers basic types of duct systems and their selection, sizing, and installation requirements.

Expands on the study of product and process refrigeration equipment by describing systems used in cold storage and food processing applications, as well as transportation refrigeration. Various types of defrost systems are covered in detail.

Describes alternative devices used to reduce energy consumption, including wood, coal, and pellet-fired systems, waste-oil heaters, geothermal heat pumps, solar heating, in-floor radiant heating, and direct-fired makeup units. Also introduces application-specific computer room environmental and air turnover systems.

Work gets done most efficiently if workers are divided into crews with a common purpose. When a crew is formed to tackle a particular job, one person is appointed the leader. This person is usually an experienced craftworker who has demonstrated leadership qualities. To become an effective leader, it helps if a trainee has natural leadership qualities, but there are specific job skills that each craftworker must learn in order to do the job well.

This module will teach the skills needed to be an effective leader, including the ability to communicate effectively, provide direction to a crew and effectively plan and schedule the work of a crew.