HVAC / Refrigeration
Location: East Campus (Oley)         Instructor: Thomas Danner         CIP Code: 47.0201
This program is accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) through the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) and provides participants with defined career paths in the industry. The program uses project-based methods and national performance standards to teach students the knowledge and skills needed for a successful future in this field.
Instruction in this course includes the theory and application of the basic principles involved in the conditioning of air, cooling, heating, filtering and controlling of humidity. Students develop skills in assembling and installing tubes and pipes, motors, compressors, control devices, valves and thermostats, and gain an understanding of blueprints and schematics related to equipment and systems. Students must be able to diagnose equipment malfunctions and be able to read and understand technical reference manuals. Energy management control technology is taught as it relates to domestic, commercial and industrial air systems, heat pumps, forced air conditioning systems and microcomputer systems control.
Mathematics Note:Â HVAC technicians are increasingly required to perform complex mathematical operations and calculations when performing work in the field. Therefore, it is highly recommended that students enter the program with a strong foundation in Algebra I and Geometry. In addition, students are advised to complete Algebra II, Trigonometry and Physics during high school to have the necessary academic and technical skills to successfully enter the workforce and/or postsecondary education.
Graduates of this program have excellent opportunities for entry level employment, to pursue an apprenticeship, or continue their education in a technical postsecondary program.
HVAC Excellence
This program is accredited through HVAC Excellence to assure that the curriculum taught meets or exceeds the National Skill Standards. Having this accreditation enables BCTC to more easily articulate credits with other institutions and apply for public and private funds. Visit www.hvacexcellence.org for further information.
NCCER – National Center for Construction Education and Research
The HVAC/R program participates in NCCER. This curricula and training process is supported by trade associations, contractors, schools, construction and maintenance users, pipeline operators, manufacturers, and third-party training providers. Visit www.nccer.org for further information.
Industry Certifications:
Student Outcome Assessment (HVAC Excellence)
EPA 608 Certification
NCCER Core
Section 609 Certification for Refrigerant Recycling and Recovery
Pennsylvania Builders Association Skills Certificate (based on NOCTI)
OSHA/CareerSafe 10-Hour Certification
OSHA 30-hour Certification
Uniforms
Required/Optional Items |
Required Items |
Required Footwear |
Required Safety Gear |
REQUIRED: · Two Navy HVAC Short Sleeve Tee Shirts with BCTC Logo· Two Pairs Navy Work PantsOPTIONAL: · Navy Short Sleeve Work Shirt with BCTC Logo· Charcoal HVAC Crewneck Sweatshirt with BCTC Logo |
N/A | Hard-soled shoes with leather tops | Safety glasses provided by BCTC |
Textbooks
The link provided for each book title will take you to Amazon.com. Please note that you are NOT required to purchase the books from Amazon. You may purchase the books from any vendor.
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology (MindTap Course List) (9th Edition) – by Bill Whitman, Bill Johnson, John Tomczyk, Eugene Silberstein
ISBN #:Â 978-0-35712-227-3
The Complete HVACR Lab Manual  (2nd Edition) – by Eugene Silberstein and Jason Obrzut
ISBN-13 #: 978-0357618738
PPM for Heating and Cooling Technicians (Delmar’s Practical Problems in Mathematics) (6th Edition) (Paperback) – by Russell DeVore
ISBN #:Â Â 978-1-11154-135-4
Sheet Metal (Paperback) – by Leo A Meyer
ASIN #:Â Â B019NDR8X6
Tool / Supply / Protective Equipment
Quantity Needed | Level 1, 2, or 3 | Approximate Cost | Suggested Vendor | |
Footwear Requirement: Hard-soled shoes with leather tops | 1 pair | Levels 1, 2, & 3 | TBD | Any store |
7 mil Nitrile Powder-Free Gloves 50 Pc | 1 box | Levels 1, 2, & 3 | $9.00 | Harbor Freight |
Latex Coated Work Gloves | 2 pair | Levels 1, 2, & 3 | $1.99 / pair | Harbor Freight, Walmart |
25′ Tape Measure | 1 | Levels 1, 2, & 3 | FREE | Harbor Freight |
* BCTC will pay for one pair of safety glasses (if required) and may assist with payment for the testing fees or core certification tests (first time only).  Additional safety glasses and testing fees must be paid by the student.

Program Entrance Recommendations:
- Reading at grade level
- Mathematics – See note above.
- Problem solving/troubleshooting skills
- Ability to work independently and in a team
- Hand-eye coordination
- Mechanical aptitude
Career Pathways:
- Refrigeration Mechanic
- Heating and Air Conditioning Mechanic
- Sheet Metal Worker
- Energy Auditor
- Air Conditioning and Heating Engineer
- Refrigeration Engineer
- Energy Management Control Engineer
- Factory Service Representative
- Estimator
- Stationary Engineer
- HVAC Contractor