Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology

Overview

Programs in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology prepare people to service and repair heating and cooling systems.

Programs in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology prepare people to work on heating and cooling systems. Students learn to diagnose and test systems. They learn to install, service, and repair them. Some programs teach people to help engineers to design, develop, and use heating and cooling systems.

Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology (HVAC) programs include topics such as:

Principles of heating and cooling technology
Inspection and maintenance procedures
Installation and operation
Diagnostic techniques
Use of testing equipment
Plumbing and sheet metal
Electronic controls and components
Safety concerns
Local building codes

Apprenticeships

Many heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology programs include paid apprenticeships. As an apprentice, students learn skills of the trade while working with experienced workers.

Schools

Many community colleges and technical schools offer certificate and associate degree programs in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology (HVAC). A certificate program usually takes a year of full-time study. An associate degree program at a community college usually takes two years of full-time study to complete.

Very few colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degrees in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration technology. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

See schools that offer this program.

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Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

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Program Admission

Proprietary schools, colleges, and universities all offer this program. If you want to study at a proprietary school, you can prepare for this program of study by completing your high school diploma or getting a GED. If you want to study at a college or university, you can prepare for this program by taking the following courses: four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Apprenticeship requirements vary by area and local committee. Most committees require you to be at least 18. Some will take younger apprentices who have permission from their parents or high school principal.

Some training programs require you to pass tests of aptitude and physical strength. They often require you to have directly related work experience.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Algebra
Basic Computer
Electricity and Electronics
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Principles of Technology
Technical Writing

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

An HVAC (Heating/Ventilation/Air Conditioning) certification program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Basic Air Conditioning Systems and Design
Blueprints and Specifications
Duct Design
Electricity for HVAC
Estimating Thermal Loads
HVAC Controls and Circuits
Hydronic Heating Systems
Introduction to Computers
Refrigeration Systems
Technical Communications
Technical Mathematics

In an apprenticeship, you learn the above subjects in a combination of classes and work experiences. In an associate degree program, you also typically learn all of the above subjects, plus the following:

English Composition
General Physics
Interpersonal and Organizational Psychology
Speech Communications

As an apprentice, you do about 2,000 hours of work per year as part of your supervised, on-the-job training.

Things to Know

Most programs require that students purchase their own tools, safety equipment, and work clothes.

For information about apprenticeships and other training opportunities in your area, call or visit local contractors, union offices, apprenticeship agencies, or your nearest employment service office. Upon completion of an apprenticeship program, students can get trade certification or licensing. You need a license to work as an HVAC technician in most states. Training may also be available in the armed forces.

As HVAC technology continues to advance, you will need to keep your skills up-to-date. Expect to take classes throughout your career. Your employer may pay for this training.