Online HVAC Training through Certificate Programs

There are currently two certificate options available for online HVAC training. An individual can complete a certificate program to become an Installer and repair tech, or they can complete  a certificate program that focuses on HVAC system design. Both of these online HVAC training programs are designed to provide flexibility in the student’s schedule.

Certificate Program for HVAC Installers

This certificate program will require completion of one to sixteen classes or three hundred credit hours. A student will learn about different types of heat transfer methods, system components and safety considerations. Many of these programs will lead to licensing opportunities and will prepare a student for an entry level position as an installer.

For the individual that’s seeking an entry level position, continuing education credits or wants to strengthen their knowledge of this field, this type of program will offer training in troubleshooting and installations of HVAC systems. A student will be eligible to take the certification exam once this program has been completed.

Courses for these programs can be separated into sections, or there can be several different classes. These courses will instruct the student on everything from repair and troubleshooting techniques to basic system information.

The fundamentals of HVAC class will introduce a student to the industry and discusses the measurements for gas and air works. The second half of this class will focus primarily on safety. A student will learn the correct way to use personal safety equipment and how to use compressed air and fire extinguishers.

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The HVAC electrical course will teach students about the characteristics of AC and DC circuits. This class teaches students how to use and read schematic symbols for electrical circuits. The last half of the course will feature the discussion of the application of alternation currents for different types of systems.

The HVAC refrigerant class will cover the components of refrigeration systems, including condenser units and compressors.

HVAC System Design Certificate Program

These system design programs will include instruction on comparison of systems, code requirements and digital controls. Online programs can be found through a college’s engineering department or their professional studies department. A student will learn about how to evaluate various systems for maintenance requirements, repair and system retooling.

This certificate program will consist of five to six classes. The student will need to have a bachelor’s degree and engineering experience in order to be eligible for enrollment.  A student will learn about the laws regarding installation and design of HVAC systems, the controls used in these systems and system calculations.

The design class consists of four different classes. The beginning class will introduce students to the components of HVAC systems and system classifications. The advanced classes will cover system comparisons, system costs and repair and maintenance.

The Intro to direct digital controls class will teach a student how these controls work and how they can affect the design process of different systems. This class will detail the steps in design and prepare a student for the advanced DDC course.

The design calculations class will teaches students how to correctly calculate the cooling and heating loads, in addition to other required calculations for a number of buildings. A student will also explore guidelines and codes that will affect these calculations. Students will also get an overview of HVAC design and computer programs utilized in the field.

There are a number of certifying organizations that offer credentials for this career field, for many categories, including energy modeling and building. Applicants will need to pay a fee and provide transcripts in order to meet the certification criteria.