This online course, created by Ed2Go and offered in cooperation with SDSU Global Campus, will prepare you for an entry-level role in the constantly growing and in-demand HVAC/R field.
Start a New Career in HVAC/R with Online Training
As an HVAC/R professional, you’re responsible for the comfort and safety of those around you through air temperature and quality. With this convenient online course, you’ll study the basic requirements needed to earn a “work-ready” HVAC/R certificate, start an apprenticeship, and take the next step in your career.
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 the safe handling and transport of refrigerants
- Proper recovery, recycling, and retrofitting of refrigerants
This program is eligible for tuition assistance through the Workforce Partnership.
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 out of cooling towers, pumps, and chilled-water systems. - Simulation Challenge Mode – I
Virtual, hands-on simulation of troubleshooting an HVACR system. - Simulation Challenge Mode – II
Hands-on virtual simulation of routing electricity to an HVACR system.
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, we recommend having a high school diploma or GED.
Registration and Enrollment
This course is 100% online. Start anytime.
Meet Your 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 an 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.
Job Outlook for HVACR Technicians
Qualified HVAC/R Technicians are needed in your area right now. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the employment of HVAC/R technicians in California is expected to grow by 12.5% during the next few years. This could equal 4,100 newly created jobs and 3,820 job openings each year.
Not only are HVAC/R opportunities out there, but you can make a competitive salary in the field as well. ZipRecruiter.com states that the average salary for HVAC/R technicians in San Diego County is just over $50,000 per year, with top earners making nearly $75,000.
HVAC/R Technician FAQs
What Does an HVAC/R Technician Do?
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) technicians, also called installers or mechanics, work on the systems that control the temperature, humidity, and air quality in our homes, workplaces, and all other types of buildings.
How Do I Become an HVAC/R Technician?
HVAC/R technicians need to start out as apprentices and gain experience before becoming licensed. You’ll work as an apprentice under a licensed technician for up to 2,000 hours. Apprenticeships are competitive, so having formal training and a “work ready” certificate can significantly improve your chances of success in an HVAC/R career.
Does This Course Prepare Me for Work-Ready Certificates?
Yes. This HVAC/R Technician Certification course will prepare you for two of the most widely recognized entry-level industry work-ready certificates: the HVAC Excellence “Employment Ready” Certificate and the NATE “Ready to Work” Certificate.
Are Work Ready Certificates Worth It?
Yes. Potential employers want to know that you have a fundamental understanding of how HVAC/R Systems work, including maintenance and troubleshooting basics, before they hire you for a job.