Online HVAC-R Courses
Here are some courses related to refrigeration that are often offered online:
- Introductory HVAC-R courses teach the fundamentals of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. These courses explore several aspects of HVAC-R technology, from basic HVAC-R terminology to safety in the workplace. Content includes heat transfer methods, applied physics for HVAC-R systems, industry HVAC-R measurements, and handling hazardous materials.
- In HVAC-R electrical courses , students explore basic electrical theory as it applies to DC and AC circuits. Ohm's law, circuit characteristics, and schematic circuit symbols are examined as students look at control components in HVAC-R systems. Course topics also include control methods, transformers, motor theory and common motors, starting components, wiring, and pressure residential thermostats.
- In HVAC-R structures courses, students analyze system functions, including airflow measurement methods, psychometrics, air properties, and accurate comfort parameters. These courses emphasize common HVAC-R installation standards, heat transfer concepts, heat-loss issues, and conditions of air.
- In HVAC-R cooling system courses, mechanical compression refrigeration cycles and essential operation components are covered to prepare HVAC-R technicians to size, install, or design a cooling system. Students are introduced to basic refrigeration cycle physics, metering devices evaporation, cooling equipment, and duct sizing.
- Commercial refrigeration courses specifically prepare students to install, maintain, and repair commercial refrigeration systems. The curriculum also includes discussion of lithium bromide absorption.
- EPA technician certification courses provide test preparation for one of the EPA certification exams, which allows technicians to buy, handle, and work with refrigerants. Students may be able to choose between courses that focus specifically on Type I certification for small appliances, Type II certification for high-pressure refrigerants, and Type III certification for low-pressure refrigerants.
Program Information
Students can enroll in programs that cover the skills necessary to install, design, troubleshoot, and service HVAC-R systems. Graduates of these programs are qualified to sit for exams administered through HVAC-R industry organizations, such as the Air-Conditioning Refrigeration Institute and the North American Technician Excellence. Though online courses may be part of these programs, other courses will require on-campus participation to learn hands-on skills. Some courses are offered as part of undergraduate certificate or diploma programs.
Aspiring HVAC-R technicians can find relevant courses online that cover the theoretical concepts underpinning refrigerants as well as the technical aspects of working with them.
