Certificate in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration

Build a Career in the Trades with a Certificate in HVAC/R

If you want a job where you can work with your hands, while you solve problems with your brain, consider a career as an HVAC/R technician. Each day, you can travel to commercial or residential worksites to install, service, and repair heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems. Contact Charter College today to begin your HVAC/R training.

HVAC/R Classes and Curriculum

The Certificate in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program provides you with the knowledge and technical skills you need to find an entry-level position as an HVAC/R technician. In classrooms and labs, you will learn how to size and cut pipes, set controls, clean and maintain HVAC/R systems and parts, demonstrate safety practices, and use computer technology to enhance your potential for employment. In addition, you will complete assignments such as reading, exercises, problem solving, projects, research, papers, and presentations.

HVAC/R topics that you will cover include:

• HVAC Science and Electrical Work
• Basic Refrigeration and Air Properties
• Refrigeration, Pipe, Duct, and Flue Systems
• Refrigerants and Oils
• Commercial Refrigeration Systems
• Residential and Commercial Controls
• Residential and Commercial AC and Heat Pumps
• Gas and Oil Heating Systems
• Boiler, Chiller, and Cooling Tower Systems
• Construction Drawings, Building Specifications, and Design Considerations
• Energy Conservation, Heat Recovery, and Air Quality

View the complete list of HVAC/R courses in the Charter College Handbook.

HVAC/R Certifications

The State of Washington requires those in the HVAC/R profession to have an electrical license at the trainee or journey level. This may require additional supervised experience in the field. To learn more, visit the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries website.

The State of California requires those in HVAC/R to be licensed as a specialty contractor. To learn more, visit the website of the California Department of Consumer Affairs Contractors State License Board.

HVAC/R Program Length

40 weeks or 10 months

In as little as 10 months, you can get started on a rewarding career as an HVAC/R technician. Charter College starts classes every five weeks providing unparalleled flexibility and our unique learning approach helps you to graduate on time.

HVAC/R Blended Learning Delivery Method

The Certificate in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program is available in a blended learning format. The combination of classroom and online learning gives you the flexibility to balance your classwork with family, work, and other commitments.

HVAC/R Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this HVAC/R program, you will be able to:

• Complete basic HVAC practices needed for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems maintenance and repair
• Demonstrate basic industry safety practices, including working with electricity, refrigeration, and other HVAC systems
• Be prepared for the EPA refrigerant handling test and certification to service and maintain residential and light commercial HVAC and refrigeration systems using standard industry practices
• Identify and use EPA guidelines, Clean Air Act rules and regulations, manufacturer recommendations, and good trade practices
• Identify the importance of professionalism, communication, and collaboration skills in a professional setting

Prepare for Entry-Level HVAC/R Careers

The Certificate in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program prepares you to handle the duties and requirements of entry-level HVAC/R technician positions. You can seek employment with heating, ventilation, and refrigeration companies, or as an independent contractor.

Charter College Campuses that Offer HVAC/R Training

The Certificate in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program is available at Charter College in Anchorage, AK, Lancaster, CA, Lacey, WA, Pasco, WA, and Vancouver, WA.

No High School Diploma? No Problem.

*Students must meet admissions requirements noted in the Catalog & Student Handbook.

Virtual Lab Tour: 

Take a self-guided, virtual tour of our HVAC/R lab by clicking the play button below.