Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology banner image Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology banner image Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology banner image

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology


Start Date: September


Location: Summerside Waterfront Campus


Length: 2 Years


Credential: Diploma, HVAC Technician


Program Availability: Fall 2024 Term

Canadian Applicants: Waiting list

International Applicants with a Valid Study Permit: Waiting list

Other International Applicants: Closed


The Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology (HVAC) program gives you a broad base of training that can lead to two Red Seal trades. You will learn how to install and service HVAC and refrigeration systems for residential and commercial applications. You will train on everything from heat pumps, oil and gas heat, and ventilation equipment to commercial refrigeration walk-in coolers and freezers, rooftop air conditioning units and more. On-the-job training will give you even more experience and expose you to various trades and professions within the field.

This program is located at our Summerside Waterfront Campus. Take a virtual tour.

Program Learning Outcomes


Upon successful completion of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Technology program at Holland College, graduates will:

  1. Work safely and in accordance with applicable acts, regulations, legislation, and codes to ensure personal and public safety.
  2. Select and use a variety of heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning tools and equipment safely and properly.
  3. Effectively assist with the installation, servicing, and troubleshooting of heating, refrigeration, air conditioning systems, and associated components.
  4. Solve problems related to heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning by applying the principles of basic technical mathematics, electrical fundamentals, and thermal properties.
  5. Read and interpret manufacturer specifications, basic blueprints and drawings, including electrical, mechanical, and piping drawings.
  6. Communicate and work effectively with supervisors, coworkers, other tradespersons, suppliers, and customers.
  7. Use technology to source information and specifications and to monitor heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems.
  8. Identify strategies for ongoing personal and professional development, that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and to keep pace with industry changes.

RED SEAL


The Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology program is an excellent program to give you a broad base of training that can lead to two Red Seal trades. This program enables you to earn 30 hours of apprenticeship time per week of training and write the Apprenticeship block one exam for Oil Heat System Technician and the Apprenticeship block one exam for Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic, which puts you well on your way to Red Seal certifications. Upon graduation, once you are working with a suitable employer, you will register as an apprentice to complete your journey to challenge the Red Seal exam. When you register, Apprenticeship PEI will give you credit for the hours earned and block exams passed while you were at Holland College.

Red Seal gives you the ability to work anywhere in Canada without further testing or certification.

 

DEGREE PATHWAYS


This program has degree pathways, giving you the opportunity to receive credit for your Holland College diploma when you continue your education. For a complete list of agreements, visit the Degree Pathways page.

Partner Institution Credential Details of Agreement
University of New Brunswick - Saint John, Saint John, N.B. Bachelor of Applied Management Graduates with a 70% average receive two years of credit toward a Bachelor of Applied Management degree.
  • Grade 12 or equivalent with credits at or above the general level
  • 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

Notes:

2023/2024 Academic Year

Tuition, fees, and other costs are listed in Canadian dollars. International tuition includes the International Student Fee.

1st Year

Canadian

International

Tuition $ 4,471 $9,571
Fees $737 $1,487
Other Costs $2,120 $2,120
Total $ 7,328 $13,178

2nd Year

Canadian

International

Tuition $4,471 $9,471
Fees $717 $1,467
Other Costs $100 $100
Total $5,288 $11,038
/

Canadian Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

1st Year

2nd Year

Tuition $ 4,471 $ 4,471
Student Union $ 172 $ 172
Health Insurance Fee $ 445 $ 445
First Aid/WHMIS $120
Graduation fee $100
     Total payable to Holland College $ 5,208 $ 5,188
     
1st installment due first day of first semester $ 3,420 $ 3,400
2nd installment due first day of second semester $ 1,788 $ 1,788
     

Other Costs
Please note: the cost of books, materials, and supplies are included here for your information only, this amount is not payable to the college. Do not include this amount in your tuition payment.

1st Year

2nd Year

Books $720 $100
Uniforms/Safety Shoes $300
Materials/Supplies $100
Equipment/Tools $1,000
     Total $2,120 $100
     
Grand Total $7,328 $5,288

 

International Cost Breakdown

Tuition & Fees

1st Year

2nd Year

Tuition* $9,571 $9,471
Student Union $172 $172
Health Insurance Fee $1,195 $1,195
First Aid/WHMIS $120
Graduation fee $100
     Total payable to Holland College $11,058 $10,938
     
1st installment due first day of first semester $ 9,270 $ 9,370
2nd installment due first day of second semester $ 1,788 $ 1,788
     

Other Costs
Please note: the cost of books, materials, and supplies are included here for your information only, this amount is not payable to the college. Do not include this amount in your tuition payment.

1st Year

2nd Year

Books $720 $100
Uniforms/Safety Shoes $300
Materials/Supplies $100
Equipment/Tools $1,000
     Total $2,120 $100
     
Grand Total $13,178 $11,038

*Includes the International Student Fee.

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

APPRENTICESHIP

After you graduate from Holland College, your apprenticeship training begins. When you register with your provincial apprenticeship program, you will receive credit for the hours earned and level exams passed while you were at Holland College. Learn more about apprenticeship and the Red Seal program.

DEGREE PATHWAYS

Many Holland College programs have degree pathway agreements with other post-secondary institutions. You can receive credit for your Holland College diploma toward a university degree or other post-graduate credential, saving you time and money! Find out more on the Degree Pathways page.

Course Code

Course Name & Description

Credit Values


Course Code:SAFE-1005

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.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:BLPR-1115

Drafting Fundamentals and Blueprint Reading

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

Credit Value:2


Course Code:COMM-1005

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.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:COMP-1000

Computer Essentials

Students learn productivity software and explore digital environments with practical applications for various workplaces and educational institutions. The main areas of focus include word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, email and other electronic communication tools, various digital environments, and industry-specific applications.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:HVAC-1001

Safety, Shop Practices, and Tools

This course is designed to introduce students to occupational health and safety hazards and best practices in the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning trade. Students learn about provincial legislation, best practices pertaining to safely using tools and equipment, and how to recognize safety hazards that are common to job sites. Students are introduced to various tools, fasteners, piping practices and equipment used in industry today and gain practical experience in their use.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:HVAC-1100

Oil-Fired Equipment

Upon completion of this course students are able to identify various types of oil burners and burner components. In addition, students learn to install, service and troubleshoot oil-fired heating systems.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:HVAC-1110

Gas Heating

Upon completion of this course, students are able to identify gas burners and burner components. In addition, students become familiar with servicing and troubleshooting gas fired heating systems.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:HVAC-1155

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. Students are introduced to basic electrical principles, the characteristics of electrical circuits and electrical meters and their uses. This course lays a foundation for reading and interpreting system wiring diagrams and provides students with an understanding of direct current, alternating current, power distribution and voltage systems.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:HVAC-1161

Refrigerant Management

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

Credit Value:5


Course Code:HVAC-1171

Introduction to Thermal Systems

This course introduces students to the theory of heat, energy and matter, the thermal properties of various substances, the building envelope, and the heat exchange process. Students also explore the components and operation of solar heating systems, as well as basic refrigeration systems.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:HVAC-1185

Residential Installation Methods and Practices

Students learn methods and practices commonly used to install residential heating and cooling equipment. Students gain experience using common construction tools and fasteners, and learn to use technical documentation to plan for and perform an installation of a system.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:HVAC-2010

Hydronic Heating Systems

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

Credit Value:3


Course Code:HVAC-2020

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.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:HVAC-2025

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 learn to identify and select line voltage and control conductors, select thermostats, pressure switches, and other electric control devices. Students troubleshoot electric control devices and circuitry for air-conditioning, modern refrigeration, and heating systems, and are introduced to remote access management tools.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:HVAC-2050

HVAC Motors

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.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:HVAC-2060

Refrigerant System Piping Practices

This course familiarizes students with refrigerant piping practices to enable them to install refrigerant piping and identify faults in existing refrigerant piping designs. Students learn about pipe requirements and sizing, insulation and hanging requirements, along with causes of and solutions to system vibration and noise.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:HVAC-2075

Heat Pumps and Electrical Heating Systems

This course is designed to introduce students to electric heating equipment, as well as Air-to-Air and Geothermal Heat Pump systems. Students learn the procedures for installing, servicing, and troubleshooting these systems.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:HVAC-2085

Refrigerant Systems

Learn about refrigeration systems including how to identify and install the various system components, including evaporators, condensers, metering devices, compressors and system accessories. Explore typical operating conditions for high, medium, and low temperature refrigeration systems, and troubleshoot abnormal conditions.

Credit Value:5


Course Code:HVAC-2090

Air Conditioning Systems

Students are introduced to typical air conditioning systems, and learn how to identify and select systems according to their application. Students learn to analyze the psychometric chart, perform heat load calculations, and determine comfort conditions. In addition, students learn to install systems, including performing start-up, testing, and adjusting of equipment as required.

Credit Value:4


Course Code:MATH-1005

Math Essentials

This course is designed to provide students with a review of fundamental trade related math skills. Students acquire competency in the math skills as they relate to their chosen trade program and future career. Emphasis is placed on developing problem solving and critical thinking skills. Students are challenged to continually make connections between math and their trade, as well as every day applications.

Credit Value:2


Course Code:MATH-1210

Hvac Trade Math

An applied math course for students to develop the skills to explain concepts of heat, temperature, freezing, and boiling. Students investigate impacts of temperature change, heat transfer methods and calculate heat transfer. Students learn to apply trigonometry to solve problems involving angles and use Ohm's law to solve problems with electric circuits. In addition, students calculate force, work, energy and power, examine gears, pulleys and torque, and examine solids, liquids and gases.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:NCPR-1001

Standard First Aid and CPR/AED Level C

A comprehensive two-day course offering standard first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills from a certified trainer. As required by regulation, this course covers CPR and the management of other breathing, airway and circulation emergencies, as well as, the control of bleeding, treating shock, stabilizing fractures and dislocations, head and spine injuries, and more. Also, includes automated external defibrilators (AED). This certification expires in 3 years.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1002

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems

Students complete Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) training and certification.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-1066

Certified Fall Protection

Students are trained and become certified in the application and use of fall protection equipment. Students explore hazards, legislative requirements, as well as various types of fall protection systems and their components. Demonstration of the proper application and use of fall protection is required in order to pass this course.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:NCPR-2010

Refrigerant Handlers Course

This environmental awareness training program, based on Environment Canada's "Code of Practice for Elimination of Fluorocarbon Emissions in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems", deals with environmentally-correct equipment design, proper handling of refrigerants, and prepares participants for complying with Federal and Provincial Regulations covering refrigeration and air conditioning systems. Specific topics covered are: Science of ozone depletion, leak detection methods, system charging procedures, special maintenance provisions, and refrigerant recovery, reuse, recycle and reclamation equipment.

Credit Value:0


Course Code:PRAC-1500

HVAC OJT I

On-the-job training provides students with an opportunity to apply acquired skills and knowledge to a relevant work environment. Participants are 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 students with an invaluable experience that enhances their overall learning.

Credit Value:3


Course Code:PRAC-2500

HVAC OJT II

On-the-job training provides students with an opportunity to apply acquired skills and knowledge to a relevant work environment. Participants are 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 students with an invaluable experience that enhances their overall learning.

Credit Value:4


Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology background image Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology background image Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Technology background image

My time at Holland College was very informative and prepared me quite well for my career in HVAC. I was able to enter the workforce immediately after graduation, and I can take on varying tasks associated with my trade.

Bryce, Class of 2022

Related
Programs


Energy Systems Engineering Technology

Train to be a solar photovoltaic installer and an energy auditor. Explore how energy is produced, stored, distributed and used in this 2-year diploma program and prepare for a career working with renewable energy and technology.

Power Engineering

Become a 4th class Power Engineer. Learn to operate & maintain boilers, turbines, & refrigeration/ air conditioning units in commercial or industrial buildings. Develop the technical skills to troubleshoot issues and resolve problems with equipment used for power generation and plant operation.

Additional
Resources