HVACR Technician

Program Outline

Instruction Sets
Your program consists of eight Instruction Sets written to take you step-by-step through the knowledge and skills you'll use in your new career.

Here's how it works
Your first course will be available as soon as your enrollment has been accepted, and other courses will follow as you complete your exams.

Computer Specifications
As you know this is an online academic program. This means you will need high-speed internet access to begin your program. In addition, you will need access to a Microsoft® Windows® based computer running Windows 7® or later or an Apple® Mac® computer running OS X® or later, and an email account to participate in and complete your program.

Here is an overview of what you'll learn and the order in which you'll access your lessons:

Program Goal and Outcomes

Program Goal: To prepare students for an entry-level career as an HVACR technician in the residential and light construction field.

Program Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

  • Comprehend mathematical processes and use of formulas necessary for design, evaluation, and installation of HVACR systems
  • Understand composition and usage of HVACR materials, equipment, and tools required for installation and diagnostic tasks
  • Recognize safety procedures and established regulations related to workplace and job requirements
  • Understand the refrigeration cycle, gas laws, and properties of refrigerants required for diagnostic and systems design
  • Comprehend drawings, technical diagrams, and specification charts required for installation and repair of HVACR systems
  • Understand theories and processes for evaluating and installing electrical systems and controls
  • Comprehend procedures for installing, inspecting, testing, repairing, and maintaining HVACR systems
  • Recognize procedures for following government regulations regarding the conservation, recovery, and recycling of refrigerants
  • Know procedures for following government regulations regarding the conservation, recovery, and recycling of refrigerants

Instruction Set 1 (Delivered online only)

Starting Your Program
Succeed by learning how to use your Penn Foster program. Understand how to use your Student Portal. Access the Penn Foster Community and use it to find answers. Connect with Penn Foster on various social media sites.

Introduction to Comfort Control
In this course, you’ll learn about the uses, components, and types of indoor comfort-control systems. You’ll also explore the types of jobs and the pay scales for comfort-control employees.

Instruction Set 2

Math for the Trades
Reinforce what you already know about math, and apply your math skills to solve real-world trades-related problems. You’ll measure lengths and angles; work with fractions, and use formulas to solve problems.

Nature of Electricity
In this course, you’ll learn the importance of electricity and the fundamental concepts relating to electricity.

Instruction Set 3

Fundamentals of HVACR
This course will teach you the broad range of technical skills necessary to work with heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration systems. You’ll also develop the ability to recognize and correctly employ the tools, equipment, and common materials used by HVACR technicians.

Textbook: Fundamentals of HVAC/R

Learning Aid: Troubleshooting Guide for Compressors

Instruction Set 4

Refrigeration Systems
In this course, you’ll learn system operations and the basic practices for maintenance and troubleshooting of air-conditioning and refrigeration systems, and the law for handling refrigerants.

Instruction Set 5

Electrical Systems
This course will provide you with an understanding of electrical power and the operating characteristics of equipment, circuits, motors, and control devices. You’ll use schematics to determine the expected operation of an electrical system, connect circuit components, evaluate systems to identify problems, and determine a process you can follow to solve the problems you identify.

Instruction Set 6

Residential and Light Commercial HVACR Systems
In this course, you’ll learn how air-conditioning and heating systems are installed and serviced in residential and smaller commercial applications, and receive practical tips and instructions.

Instruction Set 7

HVACR System Design and Installation
This course will teach you about building and duct design and HVACR system placement. You’ll explore the skills required to properly install an air distribution system, and learn about commercial-scale hydronic heating systems and the boilers that serve as their heat source, and identify common problems with these systems.

Instruction Set 8

Commercial Refrigeration and HVACR Maintenance
Learn how to identify components used in commercial refrigeration systems, and gain an understanding of the three categories of “everyday tasks” you’ll encounter while working in the field: installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Lithium Bromide Absorption Systems
In this course, you’ll learn what absorption refrigeration is and how lithium bromide acts as the absorbent, and the recommended operation and maintenance of a lithium bromide absorption unit.

Graduation Set
(Sent to you when all program requirements and financial obligations have been met.)

• EPA Certification Test Voucher and Registration
• EPA Air Conditioning Preparatory Manual
• Troubleshooting HVACR Equipment Reference Text

 

Online Library and Librarian
Students in Penn Foster Career School have access to an online library for use during their studies. Students can use this library to do the required research in the courses they complete or can use it for general reference and links to valuable resources. The library contains helpful research assistance, articles, databases, books, and Web links. A librarian is available to answer questions on general research-related topics via email and to assist students in research activities during their studies with Penn Foster Career School International.

We reserve the right to change program content and materials when it becomes necessary.

You must have completed the 8th grade to enroll in this program.