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Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology

Students in the Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning/ Refrigeration program develop the skills and knowledge to be successful in many aspects of the HVAC/R industry which include the installation and servicing of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for residential and commercial applications.

The two year HVAC/R program is an excellent program to give you a broad base of training that can lead to a Red Seal as a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic and as Oil Heat Service Technician, along with other specialized certifications through industry affiliates which could include certification as a Heat Pump Installer, Residential Ventilation Systems Installer, and Residential Air System Design.

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Courses

List of Courses

Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Technician Courses

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Take the following course(s):

Workplace Communications

This course is designed to allow students to develop preparatory skills for securing and retaining employment including; workplace communication, time management, critical thinking and problem-solving, and customer service. Upon successful completion of this course students are able to use oral communications techniques, and create a variety of written documents and reports used in the workplace. Methods and strategies for job search, preparation and retention are also incorporated.

Hours: 45
Course Code: COMM-1005

Computer Essentials

In this course, students are introduced to the fundamentals of various software programs and information processing systems used in today's workplace and educational environments. Students develop the skills necessary to understand and efficiently use common workplace productivity tools. The main areas of focus include: operating systems, e-mail and groupware, word processing, spreadsheets, electronic presentation software, and the integration of these technologies.

Hours: 45
Course Code: COMP-1000

Electrical Theory

This course is a basic electrical course that includes safety concerns when dealing with electricity. The types of electrical injuries are explained, along with preventative measures technicians should use. Learners will be introduced to basic electrical principles, the characteristics of electrical circuits and electrical meters and their uses. This course will lay a foundation for reading and interpreting system wiring diagrams and provide an understanding of direct current, alternating current, power distribution and voltage systems.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-1000

Trade Math

This course is designed to enable the student to develop trade-related math skills. Students acquire competency in the math skills as they relate to their trade program and future career. Emphasis will be placed on developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills that the student will use to trouble-shoot. Students will see the connections between math and the trades, and how they can apply mathematical approaches to problems that you may encounter.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-1010

Physics

This course is designed to introduce students to mechanical physics. Topics in this course include kinematics, statics, energy, states of matter and waves. Emphasis will be placed on developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills as the students relate the physics concepts to their program of study and their future career.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-1020

Occupational Health and Safety

In this course students will learn the information needed to prevent accidents and protect themselves and others from injury on the worksite. As well, students will be able to take appropriate steps in the event of an accident. Specific components of the course are: provincial legislation regarding workplace health and safety, First Aid, CPR, WHMIS, fires and extinguishers, and safe use of ladders.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-1061

Shop Practices and Tools

This course is designed to introduce students to general safety of tools and job sites, along with an introduction to various tools, fasteners, piping practices and equipment used in industry today. Students will gain the knowledge and ability to demonstrate safe working practices and select and maintain tools, fasteners, piping and equipment used in industry.

Hours: 30
Course Code: HVAC-1071

HVAC OJT I

On-the-job training provides learners with an opportunity to apply acquired skills and knowledge to a relevant work environment. Participants will be expected to assume the duties normally expected of an entry-level person in a similar position with appropriate supervision. The exposure to and interaction with the various trades and professions within the field provides learners with an invaluable experience that will serve to enhance their overall learning.

Hours: 120
Course Code: HVAC-1081

Oil Fired Equipment

Upon completion of this course learners will be able to identify various oil burners and burner components. In addition, learners will be able to install, service and troubleshoot oil fired heating systems.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-1100

Gas Heating

This course will introduce learners to the theory of heat, energy and matter, the thermal properties of various substances, and the heat exchange process.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-1110

Refrigerant Management

This course is designed to introduce learners to various refrigerants used in industry along with the safe handling of those refrigerants. Learners will be asked to perform the proper procedures for refrigerant recovery, recycling, and reclaiming as well as procedures for system evacuation, dehydration, charging and retrofitting.

Hours: 90
Course Code: HVAC-1161

Introduction to Thermal Systems

This course will introduce learners to the theory of heat, energy and matter, the thermal properties of various substances, and the heat exchange process.

Hours: 60
Course Code: HVAC-1171

Drafting Fundamentals and Blueprint Reading

This course introduces students to the basics of drafting. In addition, students will become familiar with the reading of blueprints for residential construction.

Hours: 30
Course Code: HVAC-2000

Hydronic Heating Systems

Upon completion of this course the student will have an understanding of the basic concepts of hydronic heating systems, along with system service, installation, and troubleshooting.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-2010

Forced Air Systems and Ventilation

This course is designed to introduce the student to duct material, air distribution systems, indoor air quality, the properties of air and system balance.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-2020

Solar Heating

This course is designed to introduce students to solar heating systems. Students will learn how the components of systems work together to provide hot water. As well students will be able to recommend an appropriately-sized system for a residence and install and maintain systems.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-2030

Electric Heating Equipment

This course is designed to introduce students to electric heating equipment, the control systems associated with the various methods of space and water heating and provide the knowledge and skills needed for maintenance and troubleshooting.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-2040

Motor Theory

This course is designed to introduce students to basic electric motors used in the HVAC/R industry. This course also looks at components for electric motors and the contactors, relays, and overloads used for motor starting and protection.

Hours: 60
Course Code: HVAC-2050

Refrigerant System Piping Practices

This course will familiarize students with refrigerant piping practices so they will be able to install refrigerant piping and identify faults in existing refrigerant piping designs. Students will learn about pipe requirements and sizing, insulation and hanging requirements, along with causes of and solutions to system vibration and noise.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-2060

Heat Pump Systems

This course is designed to introduce students to Air to Air and Geothermal Heat Pump systems along with procedures for their installation, service and troubleshooting.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-2070

Refrigeration Basics

Upon completion of this course the student will be able to identify, select, and install the various refrigeration system components. The student will also be able to describe typical operating conditions for high, medium, and low temperature refrigeration systems along with troubleshooting abnormal conditions dealing with the refrigeration side of the system.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-2080

Air Conditioning Basics

In this course learners will be introduced to typical air conditioning systems. They will learn to identify and select air conditioning systems according to their application. Students will learn to analyze the psychometric chart, and determine comfort conditions. In addition, students will learn to perform heat load calculations, and install, perform start-up and test and adjust equipment.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-2090

HVAC OJT II

Hours: 120
Course Code: HVAC-2100

Electrical Control Systems

This course covers the installation and troubleshooting of the following electrical systems: heating, cooling, and refrigeration, line and low-voltage and control systems. Students will learn to identify and select line voltage and control conductors, select thermostats, pressure switches, and other electric control devices. This course will also offer students the opportunity to troubleshoot electric control devices and circuitry for air-conditioning, modern refrigeration, and heating systems.

Hours: 45
Course Code: HVAC-2110

PEI Occupational Health and Safety

An overview of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Prince Edward Island. Students examine the legislation, how PEI employees are protected while on the job and the responsibilities of employees and employers.

Hours: 0
Course Code: SAFE-1005

Profile Facts
Start Date:	September
Length:	2 years
Location:	Summerside Waterfront Campus
Credential(s) Issued:	HVAC Technician Diploma

Red Seal Information

The most successful path to a Red Seal as an oil heat system mechanic or a refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic begins with the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology program. This program enables you to earn 1,360 hours and write one block exam, which puts you well on your way to Red Seal certification. Upon graduation, once you are working with a suitable employer, you will register as an apprentice to complete your journey to challenge the Interprovincial Exam. When you register, Apprenticeship PEI will give you credit for the hours earned and block exams passed while you were at Holland College.

The Interprovincial Red Seal gives you the ability to work anywhere in Canada without further testing or certification. The Red Seal is recognized as the Interprovincial standard of excellence for your chosen trade and is the designation most employers will ask for.

Graduate Opportunities

Graduates of this program may find employment with:

Mechanical contractors
Wholesale and retail sales
Equipment manufacturers
Design consultants
Preventative maintenance

Admission Requirements

Grade 12 or equivalent with credits at or above the general level
Preference will be given to applicants with academic math and physics
Resumé including work and volunteer experience with applicable dates, membership in groups, associations or athletics, awards and distinctions, and any other information about yourself relevant to the program

Articulation Agreements

University of New Brunswick Saint John
Two years of credit toward a Bachelor of Applied Management degree.

For more information, see our Degree Pathways section.

Tuition & Fees

Tuition
Year 1	$3,600
Year 2	$3,600
View a full breakdown of costs and booklist for this program.

Contact

If you have any questions concerning this program, contact:

General Inquiries (902) 888-6730

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