Course Content
Part 1: Beginners Level
The beginner level of the HVAC Engineer/Technician course introduces foundational concepts essential for understanding HVAC systems. It covers the basics of thermodynamics, HVAC components, and refrigeration cycles, with a focus on the role of temperature, airflow, and pressure in system operation. Students will learn about critical components like thermostats, evaporator coils, condensers, and blowers, as well as basic electrical principles and safety protocols.
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Module 1: Introduction to HVAC Systems
Module 2: Basic Thermodynamics for HVAC
Module 3: HVAC Components and Equipmen
Module 4: Refrigeration Cycles and Basic Principles
Module 5: Introduction to Airflow, Heat Transfer, and Pressure
Module 6: Basic Electrical Concepts for HVAC
Module 7: Safety Protocols and Industry Standards
Beginner Level Quiz
Part 2: Intermediate
The intermediate level of the HVAC Engineer/Technician course delves deeper into the operation and optimization of HVAC systems. It covers advanced refrigeration systems, focusing on variable refrigerant flow (VRF) and non-VRF systems, alongside sustainable refrigerants and their environmental impacts. The course also explores HVAC system installation, commissioning procedures, and the importance of system performance testing, air and water balancing, and control system calibration. Additionally, students learn about troubleshooting techniques and maintenance practices to ensure system longevity and efficiency. Key concepts include energy efficiency measures, advanced diagnostics, and retro-commissioning strategies for improving existing HVAC systems. This level prepares students to handle more complex HVAC system configurations and refine their technical skills.
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Module 1: Advanced Refrigeration Systems
Module 2: HVAC System Installation and Commissioning
Module 3: Troubleshooting and Maintenance Techniques
Module 4: Ductwork and Piping Systems
Module 5: Control Systems and Sensors
Module 6: Energy Efficiency in HVAC Systems
Module 7: Basic Electrical Troubleshooting
Part 2: Intermediate Test
Level 3: Expert
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Module 1: Advanced HVAC Control Systems and Automation
Module 2: Energy Audits and Optimization
Module 3: Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and Environmental Controls
Module 4: Integrated System Design for Complex Installations
Module 5: HVAC Industry Codes and Regulations
Level 3 Quiz
Beginner To Expert HVAC Engineer/Technician

Overview of HVAC Systems

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems are essential for maintaining indoor comfort across a variety of environments. They control critical factors like temperature, humidity, and air quality to ensure spaces remain conducive to human activity. This module introduces the fundamental components and operations of HVAC systems, laying the groundwork for further study in HVAC and refrigeration (HVAC&R) disciplines.

Key Terminologies in HVAC

  • BTU (British Thermal Unit): A unit of heat energy. One BTU is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

  • CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute): A measurement of airflow volume, indicating how much air moves through a space per minute.

  • SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio): A rating that measures the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps. Higher SEER values indicate more energy-efficient units.

  • AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): A metric for furnace efficiency, representing the percentage of fuel converted into usable heat over a heating season.

  • IAQ (Indoor Air Quality): Refers to the quality of air inside and around buildings, particularly regarding the health and comfort of occupants.

  • Heat: Energy that causes molecules to move and raise the temperature of a substance.

  • Heat Load Calculation: Determines the amount of refrigerant and airflow needed to heat or cool a space. Several factors contribute to this calculation.

  • Humidity: The amount of water vapor in the air. Indoor humidity levels above 60% can promote bacterial growth.

  • KW (Kilowatt): A unit of power. 1,000 watts equals 1.34 horsepower or 3.6 megajoules.

  • Latent Heat: The heat absorbed or released by a substance as it changes state (e.g., from liquid to gas), without a change in temperature.

  • Liquid Line: The smaller line that carries liquid refrigerant from the condenser to the metering device and air handler.

  • Positive Pressure: A system where the blower motor is located before the coil, blowing air through the coil and out the condensate drain line, eliminating the need for a trap. An example is the Trane Hyperion system.

  • Zone: A zoning system that uses dampers in ductwork to direct airflow, typically controlled by a thermostat.

Core Components of HVAC Systems

  1. Thermostat: Serves as the control center for the system, regulating temperature settings and initiating system responses.

  2. Air Handler: Circulates conditioned air throughout the system and houses components like the blower and evaporator coil.

  3. Heat Exchanger: Facilitates the transfer of heat between air, refrigerant, or combustion gases, enabling heating or cooling.

  4. Blower Motor: Powers the fan responsible for moving air through the system and ducts.

  5. Evaporator Coil: Absorbs heat from indoor air, cooling it as the refrigerant inside evaporates.

  6. Condenser Coil: Releases heat absorbed by the refrigerant to the outdoor air, converting the refrigerant from a gas back to a liquid.

  7. Ductwork: The network of conduits that distribute conditioned air throughout the building.

  8. Refrigerant: A fluid that absorbs and releases heat as it circulates throughout the HVAC system.

Types of HVAC Systems

  • Split Systems: Comprising separate indoor and outdoor units, these systems are commonly used in residential settings.

  • Packaged Systems: All components are housed in a single unit, typically installed outdoors, making them suitable for spaces with limited indoor room.

  • Ductless Mini-Split Systems: These systems connect indoor units to an outdoor compressor, making them ideal for retrofitting or areas without existing ductwork.

  • Hybrid Systems: Combining heat pump and furnace technologies, hybrid systems optimize energy usage across seasons.

Educational Resources

For a deeper understanding of HVAC systems and terminology, consider exploring these resources:

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