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Posted on: 3 May 2023

HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) training programs are created to give students the skills they need to excel in the HVAC industry. From electrical and mechanical principles to heating and cooling system maintenance and repair, this post will cover the must-have skills you'll gain in HVAC training.

1. Electrical and Mechanical Principles

HVAC systems use a variety of electrical and mechanical components, including motors, compressors, and wiring. HVAC technicians must have a solid understanding of electrical and mechanical principles to diagnose and repair issues with these components. In HVAC training, students learn about electrical theory, circuitry, and safety practices, and they also learn about mechanical principles such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.

2. Refrigeration Theory and Practice  

Refrigeration is a crucial part of HVAC systems, and HVAC technicians need to understand refrigeration theory and practice to maintain and repair refrigeration equipment. In HVAC training, students learn about the refrigeration cycle, refrigerant properties, and safety practices for working with refrigerants. They also learn about refrigeration equipment components such as compressors, evaporators, and condensers.

3. HVAC System Design and Installation

HVAC systems are complex, and HVAC technicians need to know how to design and install these systems properly. In HVAC training, students learn about the different types of HVAC systems, including forced-air, radiant heating, and ductless mini-split systems. They also learn about system sizing, load calculations, and energy efficiency. Installation techniques, including ductwork and piping, are also taught.

4. Heating and Cooling System Maintenance and Repair

Routine maintenance and repair of HVAC systems is critical to ensure efficient and safe operation. In HVAC training, students learn how to diagnose and repair issues with HVAC systems, such as faulty thermostats, leaky ductwork, and refrigerant leaks. They also learn about routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning and replacing filters, lubricating moving parts, and checking refrigerant levels.

5. Safety Procedures for Working with HVAC Systems

Safety is a top priority in the HVAC industry, and HVAC technicians must know how to work safely with HVAC systems. In HVAC training, students learn about the hazards they may encounter on the job, such as electrical shocks, refrigerant leaks, and burns. They also learn about safety protocols for working on elevated surfaces and how to use personal protective equipment.

6. System Controls and Automation

HVAC systems today are increasingly automated, and technicians must know how to program, maintain, and troubleshoot these control systems. In HVAC training, students learn about the different types of system controls, such as thermostats, timers, and building automation systems. They also learn how to use diagnostic tools to troubleshoot system control issues.

7. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a growing concern for businesses and homeowners, and HVAC technicians need to know how to design, install, and maintain systems that maximize energy efficiency. In HVAC training, students learn how to evaluate a building's energy needs, choose efficient equipment, and optimize system performance.