Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Techniques

Behind a workbench with vices attached, students work with manifolds.

Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning (HRAC) professionals install, service, maintain and update a range of systems. Develop the skills needed to operate in an industry dominated by climate change, rising fuel costs and sustainable choices.

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Credential

Ontario College Certificate

Duration

One year or less

Start Date(s)

January (Winter)

September (Fall)

Locations

Tyendinaga

Open to

International Students

Domestic Students

*Please note: Classes for this program are delivered at both Loyalist’s Belleville and Tyendinaga location (5717 Old Highway 2, Shannonville, ON). A free shuttle service is available.

Find your career

Prepare for an in-demand labour market as a:

Gas technician.
Air conditioning and refrigeration systems mechanic.
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) mechanic.
Hydronics technician.
Central air conditioning installer.
Heating, refrigeration and air conditioning systems installation, maintenance, and repair in residential and light commercial settings.

Graduates may also pursue a career in parts or equipment sales with a variety of employers such as:

Residential and commercial heating companies.
Air conditioning or refrigeration contractors.
Wholesalers.
Public utilities.
Oil distribution companies.
Different levels of government.

Is it for you?

Successful students in this program are people who:

Enjoy engaging with and servicing the public.
Are comfortable working with hand tools and power equipment.
Enjoy routine problem solving.
Are familiar with and comfortable applying basic mathematics and physics fundamentals.
Enjoy completing hands-on tasks, assembly and performing installations.
Adhere to workplace and public safety protocols.
Are interested in ongoing personal and professional development, that will lead to enhanced. work performance and career opportunities and keep pace with industry changes.

How you'll learn

Experiential learning

Combining theory and practice, students will:

Gain solid skills and knowledge in the design, operation and maintenance of energy-efficient, building environmental systems, in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R).
Learn to size, install, repair and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector.
Develop practical skills through hands-on experience in Loyalist’s labs, working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances, including the latest sustainable heating and cooling technology.
Develop cross-disciplinary, industry-ready skills in soldering, wiring and electrical control circuitry and troubleshooting for HVAC and gas installations.
Use computer-aided design software to assess building heating and cooling requirements, select appropriate equipment, review HVAC system drawings and specifications for the residential market and light commercial market and confirm building code requirements.

Outstanding faculty make the difference

Learn in small classes with an experienced faculty team.
Professors have specialized experience with heating, refrigeration and air conditioning.
Teachers use their industry contacts to help connect students with jobs.

Courses

COMM1066 Communications-Common Core

This course prepares students to be successful in college communication and is foundational for workplace communications.

HRAC1000 Electrical Fundamentals

This course introduces students to the theoretical and practical concepts of basic electricity and electrical circuits related to heating, refrigeration and air conditioning systems and applications. Students also learn to use and apply basic electrical test meters. Lab exercises reinforce both basic circuit design and meter usage.

HRAC1008 Gas Fundamentals

Students are introduced to the characteristics, properties, fundamentals, and safety aspects associated with natural gas and propane. They will describe the combustion process, and the problems arising from incomplete combustion, and identify the different testing methods for carbon monoxide and gas leaks. Students will identify and select the appropriate tools and documentation to properly, and safely, install a piping tubing system. Students also learn to reactivate a previously installed or converted appliance, clean and lubricate an appliance and clean, remove or replace a vent connector, venting or a draft control device. This course includes an introduction to the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act, WHMIS and general safety requirements for a job site, as well as specifications by certified manufacturers for equipment installation.

HRAC1001 Refrigeration 1

Students are introduced to theory and practices related to refrigeration systems. Topics include: the origin of refrigeration, basic hand tools, the refrigeration cycle, the four mechanical components and safety aspects to be considered. Students participate in tubing connection projects on flaring, swaging and tube bending from data on mechanical drawings and will be expected to identify, care for, and safely use hand tools.

MATH1052 Technical Math 1-HRAC

In this course, students demonstrate basic analytical skills and are prepared for further studies in mathematics. Topics include basic number systems and operations, basic algebraic operations and equations, units and measurement, and solving word problems.

HRAC1005 Electrical Controls for HRAC

This course provides students with an overview of a building electrical service and basic circuits. Students learn the principles and applications of electromechanical and electronic controls and control circuits that are used in heating, refrigeration and air conditioning systems. Skills in interpreting, designing, and applying different types of wiring diagrams are developed and practiced throughout the course. Electromagnetic theory will be introduced through practical applications. The electrical and operational characteristics of control components, such as relays, pressure switches, flow switches, timers, solenoids and ignitors will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on reading schematic wiring diagrams, wiring, and troubleshooting control circuits containing relays, timers, motor starters and controls. This course will also introduce the student to the Electrical Construction and Maintenance Worker's Safety Manual and the safe use of fastening devices and power actuated tools. Project work will replicate typical on the job work orders.

HRAC1009 Gaseous Fuels: Supply and Venting Requirements

This course introduces students to the theoretical and practical application of cylinders, tanks, relief devices, gas meters, regulators, and related code requirements. Students will learn how to choose and install the correct gas pressure regulator for a system, read and clock meters, and identify and plan for the correct use of propane cylinders and tanks. Students learn how to calculate venting and combustion air requirements for propane and natural gas-fired heating systems, as well as associated installation practices and procedures. Students will also learn to correctly measure, size, and install high-pressure gas piping and tubing systems, including interpretation of piping layout, drawings and symbols.

HRAC1004 Refrigeration 2

This course applies the fundamentals learned in Refrigeration 1 to more complex systems. Students will advance their understanding of refrigerants and their applications and characteristics. Through the use of pressure-enthalpy, pressure-temperature and psychrometric charts, students will perform various system calculations to determine component selection, sizing and system balancing. Students will study equipment and component parts, including pipe sizing and the application of refrigeration components. Students will also be introduced to the operation and characteristics of air to air and air to water heat pumps.

GNED1100 Becoming a Global Changemaker

This Loyalist College graduate attributes course will help shape your perspectives, broaden your understanding of important issues affecting our societies today, and equip you with invaluable knowledge and skills that will inform your ability to influence your community in a meaningful and impactful way. By exploring topics such as cultural competency, Indigenous education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health and wellness, and ecological literacy, you'll be equipped with a powerful toolkit that extends far beyond the classroom.

*Courses subject to change.

One student is looking straight ahead, wearing safety glasses, while another, beside the first, holds a manifold. Green graphic circles are in the lower lefthand corner of the image.

Admission requirements

Required academic preparation

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, mature student status
Grade 12 English (C or U)
Grade 11 Math (M, C or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)

Mature applicant

Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR)

Do you have work experience or other types of non-credentialed learning? Through Loyalist’s PLAR program, applicants and current students may be eligible to receive academic credit for relevant educational, work and life experiences.

International students

Learn more about admission requirements for international applicants and how to apply.

Costs

Approximate costs (2024 – 25)

Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08
Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367
Total: $4,089.08
Additional Program Costs: $600 (year one)

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.

*Fees related to programs that are less than or greater than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. Fees are subject to change. Please visit the Tuition and fees page for a list of the many services, activities and items included within the ancillary fees, and the related policies.

Paying for college

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

Schulich Builders

Students enrolling in this program may be eligible for the Schulich Builders scholarship program.

Schulich Builders covers tuition, tools and living expenses for students enrolling in a skilled trades program. Loyalist College will award ten scholarships per year:

Five $20,000 scholarships for one-year certificate programs, and

Five $40,000 scholarships for two-year diploma programs.

Learn more and apply today!

Approximate costs (2024 – 25)

International Tuition: $15,000
Full-Time Ancillary Fees:* $1,367
Mandatory Health Insurance: $659
Total: $17,026
Additional Program Costs: $600 (year one)

Additional costs, such as supplies, travel and parking, may be incurred during workplace visits, etc.

Paying for college

Two students looking at a piece of equipment for Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, the one on the left is holding the equipment. There are 14 small teal circles on the lower left hand side of the image.

Further study

Graduates of the HRAC Techniques certificate program may continue into the second year of the HRAC Technician diploma program or seek employment in the heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning field by writing the Gas Technician 3 certification exam.

Pathways

Build on the knowledge and skills you learned at Loyalist by continuing your academic journey. Explore pathway opportunities.

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