HVAC Training: Refrigeration Technologies Program

This module provides an overview of photovoltaic (PV) science and an introduction to the fundamentals of solar energy. Through a combination of lecture, problem solving and hands-on lab exercises, students will learn the concepts and processes of photovoltaic systems, including their design and installation. The module covers the scope of solar energy systems’ conceptual, mechanical and electrical design, with an emphasis on wiring and electrical issues.

In this class, students are introduced to the refrigeration cycle through class lecture and observing operating equipment. The material in this class is mechanical in nature and is limited to the mechanical and physical properties of refrigerants and the refrigeration cycle. The equipment in this class is used to safely demonstrate the varied states of refrigerant as it cycles through the system. The student will be introduced to many of the tools associated with the refrigeration industry such as: manifold gauge set, vacuum pumps, service wrenches, charging, and recovery equipment. The safety programs in this class will provide students with details on being in close proximity to rotating machinery and refrigerant handling. The class is also designed to familiarize the student with details on the mechanical troubleshooting process.

This class offers experience with residential split systems, packaged heat pump systems, air conditioners, gas furnaces, and evaporative coolers. Students are tasked with building schematics for air conditioning/heating systems and wiring the same systems having only the components of the system as reference. A further study of mechanical and electrical troubleshooting turns more hands-on in this class as students see the equipment come
to life by their own hand. Gas piping, sizing, and installation are studied as it applies to furnace operation.

This class offers a more technical approach to studying the concepts of indoor climate control. Students are tasked with safely removing and replacing components within residential and commercial HVAC systems such as fan motors, fans, electrical components, and compressors. Recovery and charging of refrigerants are an integral aspect of this class and students will apply their lessons to real equipment to round out the experience. Students will study brazing techniques using oxy/acetylene equipment and are required to put their knowledge to use on multiple tasks designed to enhance understanding of working within the confines of an HVAC unit. Refrigerant piping manipulation is introduced for study using hands-on techniques as students gain an overall familiarization of HVAC equipment. The opportunity to study and test on R410a and automotive air conditioning is provided in this class; successful students will achieve an R410a safety certification and EPA section 609 certification. An introduction to air balance and the associated equipment are also included for this class.

Students will learn to maintain, monitor, and manage residential and commercial grade walk-in refrigerators and freezers. A study of commercial grade ice makers such as: a flaker, cuber, and nugget type units provides an intense look at low temperature refrigeration equipment. Students will be required to change out a compressor, service and/ or repair critically charged systems to enhance their overall understanding of mechanical and electrical troubleshooting. A variety of specialty tools related to equipment studied in this class will be introduced to round out the total experience.

The class introduces the operation and maintenance of reciprocating liquid chillers and stands as a review of the knowledge students have attained through previous courses. Electrical troubleshooting takes on a new intensity in this class as students are exposed to the E-STAR Trainer. The E-STAR Trainer is equipment developed to teach and hone electrical troubleshooting skills. A thorough study of mechanical troubleshooting and schematic wiring will raise the student to the level of technician. The opportunity to qualify for EPA section 608 certification is provided during this class. The overall goal of this class is to ensure students have attained the required skills to be successful entry level HVAC/R technicians.