Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technician Program (T160)

2022-20232023-2024
  • Program Name:
    Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technician
  • Code: T160
  • Credential:
    Ontario College Diploma
  • Method of Study:
    Full-time
  • Duration:
    2 years (4 semesters)
  • Centre:
  • School: Apprenticeship & Skilled Trades
  • Location: Casa Loma Campus
  • Starting Months: January, September
  • Domestic Tuition:
    $3,809.00 *
  • International Tuition:
    $16,857.00 **
  • Spring 2023 Delivery:
    Semester 2: Hybrid

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Program Overview

Students in George Brown College's Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program develop the ability to size, install and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector. You will gain solid skills and knowledge in the design, operation and maintenance of environmental systems in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R).

Full Description

Rising fuel costs, indoor air quality and climate change are all contributing factors in raising awareness of the true cost of energy. There is a great need for energy-efficient building environmental system design, construction and maintenance.

In the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program students will:

  • Develop the ability to size, install and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector.
  • Gain solid skills and knowledge in design, operation and maintenance of environmental systems, in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R).
  • Develop practical skills through hands-on experience, working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in our labs.
  • Gain competency with industry-ready skills in soldering, wiring and electric control circuitry and troubleshooting for HVAC and gas installations.
  • Use computer-aided design software to assess building heating and cooling requirements, select appropriate equipment and develop HVAC system drawings and specifications for the residential market.

The program follows industry-standard design practices for environmentally responsible and energy-efficient residential, commercial and industrial systems, as established by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI), the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Canada Green Building Council.

Note: When you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Relate effectively to heating, refrigeration and air conditioning supervisors, coworkers and customers.
  2. Work safely and in accordance with all applicable acts, regulations, legislation and codes to ensure personal and public safety.
  3. Select and use a variety of heating, refrigeration and air conditioning tools and equipment safely and properly.
  4. Solve math and applied science problems required to effectively install and maintain heating, refrigeration and air conditioning systems, and associated components.
  5. Prepare and interpret electrical, mechanical and piping drawings.
  6. Install, service and troubleshoot heating, refrigeration, air conditioning systems and associated components.
  7. Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and keep pace with industry changes.

Courses

Required Courses

SEMESTER 1

CodeCourse name
HVAC 1001Refrigeration Theory I
HVAC 1006Electrical Fundamentals for HVAC
HVAC 1018Gas Technician III
GSCI 1022Building Science and the Environment
MATH 1145Math for HVAC 1
COMM 1007College English**

SEMESTER 2

CodeCourse name
HVAC 1003Refrigeration Laboratory Applications
HVAC 1008Electrical Circuit Analysis for HVAC
HVAC 1016Gas Technician II (Part A)
HVAC 1022Understanding Construction Drawings
HVAC 2003Refrigeration Theory II
MATH 1155Math for HVAC 2
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

SEMESTER 3

CodeCourse name
HVAC 1017Gas Technician II (Part B)
HVAC 2001Residential HVAC System Design
HVAC 2012Air Conditioning Theory
HVAC 2014Building Code for HVAC
PORT 1001Portfolio
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

SEMESTER 4

CodeCourse name
HVAC 1021Gas Technician II (Part C)
HVAC 2006Air Conditioning Laboratory Applications
HVAC 2013HVAC Computer Applications
COMM 1113Professional Communications for Building Technologies
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

**Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 1007. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.

General Education Electives

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Career Options

Successful graduates of this diploma program are prepared for a range of positions in the HVAC field. Technicians install, maintain and repair heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for commercial and residential buildings.

Students will also have sufficient training to challenge the Gas Fitter 2 provincial qualification exam** and if successful (75% passing grade) obtain the Gas Fitter 2 certification.

As well, for the course Building Code for HVAC (HVAC 2014) delivered in semester 3, we assist students in preparing to challenge the Ontario Ministry of Consumer Affairs and Housing, HVAC House exam.* Individuals who are successful (75% passing grade) can use this qualification toward obtaining their "Building Code Identification Number" (BCIN)**.

*Please note that in addition to passing the HVAC House exam, there are further requirements to qualify for a Building Code Identification Number. For more information on the Building Code Identification Number, please visit the Ontario Building Code website.

**The above-mentioned qualification exams are administered by the Province of Ontario. George Brown College is not responsible for the administration and/or marking of these exams.

 

Successful graduates of this diploma program are prepared for a range of positions in the HVAC field. Technicians install, maintain and repair heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for commercial and residential buildings.

Other employment opportunities for technicians include sales, system balancing and cost-estimating for projects. Experienced technicians may also explore self-employment in the gas heating industry after obtaining a Gas Fitter 2 certification.

Future Study Options

Graduates of this program are eligible to transfer with advanced standing into Semester 5 of the three-year Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology advanced diploma program (T162).

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$3,809.00 *

International Tuition

$16,857.00 **

Additional Costs

* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2022 and at later dates.

** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2023 and at later dates.

International Students

Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

Financial Assistance

This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

How to Qualify and Apply

Admission Requirements

Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
  • Grade 12 English (C or U)
  • Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)

** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)

Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and math.

Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.

Course Exemptions

College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

How to Apply

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.

International Students

Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

Contact Us

School of Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades

Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 6711
Email: skilledtrades@georgebrown.ca
Office: Casa Loma Campus, Room E308

For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

International Students

Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

Visit Our Campus

Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus Information Session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.

Sign up for an Information Session.

Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.

Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technician Program (T160)

2022-20232023-2024

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Program Overview

Students in George Brown College's Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program develop the ability to size, install and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector. You will gain solid skills and knowledge in the design, operation and maintenance of environmental systems in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R).

Full Description

Rising fuel costs, indoor air quality, and climate change are all contributing factors in raising awareness of the true cost of energy. There is a great need for energy-efficient building environmental system design, construction, and maintenance.

In the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program students will:

  • Develop the ability to size, install and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector.
  • Gain solid skills and knowledge in design, operation, and maintenance of environmental systems, in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R).
  • Develop practical skills through hands-on experience, working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in our labs.
  • Gain competency with industry-ready skills in soldering, wiring and electric control circuitry and troubleshooting for HVAC and gas installations.
  • Use computer-aided design software to assess building heating and cooling requirements, select appropriate equipment and develop HVAC system drawings and specifications for the residential market.

The program follows industry-standard design practices for environmentally responsible and energy-efficient residential, commercial and industrial systems, as established by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI), the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Canada Green Building Council.

Note: When you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Relate effectively to heating, refrigeration and air conditioning supervisors, coworkers and customers.
  2. Work safely and in accordance with all applicable acts, regulations, legislation and codes to ensure personal and public safety.
  3. Select and use a variety of heating, refrigeration and air conditioning tools and equipment safely and properly.
  4. Solve math and applied science problems required to effectively install and maintain heating, refrigeration and air conditioning systems, and associated components.
  5. Prepare and interpret electrical, mechanical and piping drawings.
  6. Install, service and troubleshoot heating, refrigeration, air conditioning systems and associated components.
  7. Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and keep pace with industry changes.

Courses

Required Courses

SEMESTER 1

CodeCourse name
HVAC 1001Refrigeration Theory I
HVAC 1006Electrical Fundamentals for HVAC
HVAC 1018Gas Technician III
GSCI 1022Building Science and the Environment
MATH 1145Math for HVAC 1
COMM 1007College English**

SEMESTER 2

CodeCourse name
HVAC 1003Refrigeration Laboratory Applications
HVAC 1008Electrical Circuit Analysis for HVAC
HVAC 1016Gas Technician II (Part A)
HVAC 1022Understanding Construction Drawings
HVAC 2003Refrigeration Theory II
MATH 1155Math for HVAC 2
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

SEMESTER 3

CodeCourse name
HVAC 1017Gas Technician II (Part B)
HVAC 2001Residential HVAC System Design
HVAC 2012Air Conditioning Theory
HVAC 2014Building Code for HVAC
PORT 1001Portfolio
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

SEMESTER 4

CodeCourse name
HVAC 1021Gas Technician II (Part C)
HVAC 2006Air Conditioning Laboratory Applications
HVAC 2013HVAC Computer Applications
COMM 1113Professional Communications for Building Technologies
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

**Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM1003 (English Skills)*** or CESL1003 (English Skills – ESL)*** before progressing to COMM1007. COMM1003/CESL1003*** does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.

***COMM1003/CESL1003 courses will be replaced by COMM1000 Introduction to College Communication starting with Winter 2022 intake.

General Education Electives

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Your Career

Successful graduates of this diploma program are prepared for a range of positions in the HVAC field. Technicians install, maintain and repair heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for commercial and residential buildings.

Other employment opportunities for technicians include sales, system balancing and cost-estimating for projects. Experienced technicians may also explore self-employment in the gas heating industry after obtaining a Gas Fitter 2 certification.

Career Options

Successful graduates of this diploma program are prepared for a range of positions in the HVAC field. Technicians install, maintain and repair heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for commercial and residential buildings.

Students will also have sufficient training to challenge the Gas Fitter 2 provincial qualification exam** and if successful (75% passing grade) obtain the Gas Fitter 2 certification.

As well, for the course Building Code for HVAC (HVAC 2014) delivered in semester 3, we assist students in preparing to challenge the Ontario Ministry of Consumer Affairs and Housing, HVAC House exam.* Individuals who are successful (75% passing grade) can use this qualification toward obtaining their "Building Code Identification Number" (BCIN)**.

*Please note that in addition to passing the HVAC House exam, there are further requirements to qualify for a Building Code Identification Number. For more information on the Building Code Identification Number, please visit the Ontario Building Code website.

**The above mentioned qualification exams are administered by the Province of Ontario. George Brown College is not responsible for the administration and/or marking of these exams.

Future Study Options

Graduates of this program are eligible to transfer with advanced standing into Semester 5 of the three-year Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology advanced diploma program (T162).

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$3,816.00 *

Additional Costs

* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2021 and at later dates.

International Students

Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

Financial Assistance

This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

How to Qualify and Apply

Admission Requirements

Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
  • Grade 12 English (C or U)
  • Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)

** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)

Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.

Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.

Course Exemptions

College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

How to Apply

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.

International Students

Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

Contact Us

School of Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades

Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 6711

Email: skilledtrades@georgebrown.ca

Office: Casa Loma Campus, Room E308

For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

International Students

Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

Visit Our Campus

Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus Information Session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.

Sign up for an Information Session.

Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.

Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technician Program (T160)

2022-20232023-2024

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Program Overview

This program is being offered in Winter 2021. Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges, and international students can learn more about how to apply.

Students in George Brown College's Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program develop the ability to size, install and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector. You will gain solid skills and knowledge in design, operation and maintenance of environmental systems, in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R).

Full Description

Rising fuel costs, indoor air quality and climate change are all contributing factors in raising awareness of the true cost of energy. There is a great need for energy-efficient building environmental system design, construction and maintenance.

In the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program students will:

  • Develop the ability to size, install and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector.
  • Gain solid skills and knowledge in design, operation and maintenance of environmental systems, in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R).
  • Develop practical skills through hands-on experience, working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in our labs.
  • Gain competency with industry-ready skills in soldering, wiring and electric control circuitry and troubleshooting for HVAC and gas installations.
  • Use computer-aided design software to assess building heating and cooling requirements, select appropriate equipment and develop HVAC system drawings and specifications for the residential market.

The program follows industry-standard design practices for environmentally responsible and energy-efficient residential, commercial and industrial systems, as established by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI), the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Canada Green Building Council.

Note: When you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Relate effectively to heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning supervisors, coworkers, and customers.
  2. Work safely and in accordance with all applicable acts, regulations, legislation, and codes to ensure personal and public safety.
  3. Select and use a variety of heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning tools and equipment safely and properly.
  4. Solve math and applied science problems required to effectively install and maintain heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems, and associated components.
  5. Prepare and interpret electrical, mechanical, and piping drawings.
  6. Install, service, and troubleshoot heating, refrigeration, air conditioning systems, and associated components.
  7. Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development, that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and keep pace with industry changes.

Courses

Required Courses

Printable Curriculum Planner

SEMESTER 1

semester courses
CodeCourse name
HVAC1001Refrigeration Theory I
HVAC1006Electrical Fundamentals for HVAC
HVAC1018Gas Technician III
GSCI1022Building Science and the Environment
MATH1136Mathematics for Building Technologies 1
COMM1007College English

SEMESTER 2

semester courses
CodeCourse name
HVAC1003Refrigeration Laboratory Applications
HVAC1008Electrical Circuit Analysis for HVAC
HVAC1016Gas Technician II (Part A)
HVAC1022Understanding Construction Drawings
HVAC2003Refrigeration Theory II
MATH1146Mathematics for Building Technologies 2
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

SEMESTER 3

semester courses
CodeCourse name
HVAC1017Gas Technician II (Part B)
HVAC2001Residential HVAC System Design
HVAC2012Air Conditioning Theory
HVAC2014Building Code for HVAC
PORT1001Portfolio
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

SEMESTER 4

semester courses
CodeCourse name
HVAC1021Gas Technician II (Part C)
HVAC2006Air Conditioning Laboratory Applications
HVAC2013HVAC Computer Applications
COMM1113Professional Communications for Building Technologies
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

General Education Electives

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Your Career

Successful graduates of this diploma program are prepared for a range of positions in the HVAC field. Technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for commercial and residential buildings.

Other employment opportunities for technicians include sales, system balancing and cost estimating for projects. Experienced technicians may also explore self-employment in the gas heating industry after obtaining a Gas Fitter 2 certification.

Career Options

Successful graduates of this diploma program are prepared for a range of positions in the HVAC field. Technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for commercial and residential buildings.

Students will also have sufficient training to challenge the Gas Fitter 2 provincial qualification exam** and if successful (75% passing grade) obtain the Gas Fitter 2 certification.

As well, for the course Building Code for HVAC (HVAC 2014) delivered in semester 3, we assist students in preparing to challenge the Ontario Ministry of Consumer Affairs and Housing, HVAC House exam.* Individuals who are successful (75% passing grade) can use this qualification towards obtaining their "Building Code Identification Number" (BCIN)**.

*Please note that in addition to passing the HVAC House exam, there are further requirements to qualify for a Building Code Identification Number. For more information on the Building Code Identification Number, please visit the Ontario Building Code website.

**The above mentioned qualification exams are administered by the Province of Ontario. George Brown College is not responsible for the administration and/or marking of these exams.

Future Study Options

Graduates of this program are eligible to transfer with advanced standing into Semester 5 of the three-year Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology advanced diploma program (T162).

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$3,772.00 *

Additional Costs

* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2019. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2020 and at later dates.

International students: Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

Financial Assistance

This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

How to Qualify and Apply

Admission Requirements

Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
  • Grade 12 English (C or U)
  • Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)

** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)

Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.

Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.

Course Exemptions

College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit georgebrown.ca/transferguide for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

How to Apply

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges

International Students

Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

Contact Us

School of Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades

Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 6711

Email: skilledtrades@georgebrown.ca

Office: Casa Loma Campus, Room E308

For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

International Students

Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

Visit Our Campus

Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus Information Session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.

Sign up for an Information Session.

Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.

Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technician Program (T160)

2022-20232023-2024

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Program Overview

Students in George Brown College's Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program develop the ability to size, install and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector. You will gain solid skills and knowledge in design, operation and maintenance of environmental systems, in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R).

Full Description

Rising fuel costs, indoor air quality and climate change are all contributing factors in raising awareness of the true cost of energy. There is a great need for energy-efficient building environmental system design, construction and maintenance.

 

In the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program students will:

  • Develop the ability to size, install and maintain building environmental systems for the residential and light commercial sector.
  • Gain solid skills and knowledge in design, operation and maintenance of environmental systems, in heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R).
  • Develop practical skills through hands-on experience, working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in our labs.
  • Gain competency with industry-ready skills in soldering, wiring and electric control circuitry and troubleshooting for HVAC and gas installations.
  • Use computer-aided design software to assess building heating and cooling requirements, select appropriate equipment and develop HVAC system drawings and specifications for the residential market.

The program follows industry-standard design practices for environmentally responsible and energy-efficient residential, commercial and industrial systems, as established by the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute (HRAI), the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) and the Canada Green Building Council.

Note: When you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.

 

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Relate effectively to heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning supervisors, coworkers, and customers.
  2. Work safely and in accordance with all applicable acts, regulations, legislation, and codes to ensure personal and public safety.
  3. Select and use a variety of heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning tools and equipment safely and properly.
  4. Solve math and applied science problems required to effectively install and maintain heating, refrigeration, and air conditioning systems, and associated components.
  5. Prepare and interpret electrical, mechanical, and piping drawings.
  6. Install, service, and troubleshoot heating, refrigeration, air conditioning systems, and associated components.
  7. Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development, that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and keep pace with industry changes.

Courses

Required Courses

Printable Curriculum Planner

SEMESTER 1

semester courses
CodeCourse name
HVAC1001Refrigeration Theory I
HVAC1006Electrical Fundamentals for HVAC
HVAC1018Gas Technician III
GSCI1022Building Science and the Environment
MATH1136Mathematics for Building Technologies 1
COMM1007College English

SEMESTER 2

semester courses
CodeCourse name
HVAC1003Refrigeration Laboratory Applications
HVAC1008Electrical Circuit Analysis for HVAC
HVAC1016Gas Technician II (Part A)
HVAC1022Understanding Construction Drawings
HVAC2003Refrigeration Theory II
MATH1146Mathematics for Building Technologies 2
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

SEMESTER 3

semester courses
CodeCourse name
HVAC1017Gas Technician II (Part B)
HVAC2001Residential HVAC System Design
HVAC2012Air Conditioning Theory
HVAC2014Building Code for HVAC
PORT1001Portfolio
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

SEMESTER 4

semester courses
CodeCourse name
HVAC1021Gas Technician II (Part C)
HVAC2006Air Conditioning Laboratory Applications
HVAC2013HVAC Computer Applications
COMM1113Professional Communications for Building Technologies
GNEDGeneral Education Elective

General Education Electives

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Your Career

Successful graduates of this diploma program are prepared for a range of positions in the HVAC field. Technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for commercial and residential buildings.

Other employment opportunities for technicians include sales, system balancing and cost estimating for projects. Experienced technicians may also explore self-employment in the gas heating industry after obtaining a Gas Fitter 2 certification.

Career Options

Successful graduates of this diploma program are prepared for a range of positions in the HVAC field. Technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems for commercial and residential buildings.

Students will also have sufficient training to challenge the Gas Fitter 2 provincial qualification exam** and if successful (75% passing grade) obtain the Gas Fitter 2 certification.

As well, for the course Building Code for HVAC (HVAC 2014) delivered in semester 3, we assist students in preparing to challenge the Ontario Ministry of Consumer Affairs and Housing, HVAC House exam.* Individuals who are successful (75% passing grade) can use this qualification towards obtaining their "Building Code Identification Number" (BCIN)**.

*Please note that in addition to passing the HVAC House exam, there are further requirements to qualify for a Building Code Identification Number. For more information on the Building Code Identification Number, please visit the Ontario Building Code website.

**The above mentioned qualification exams are administered by the Province of Ontario. George Brown College is not responsible for the administration and/or marking of these exams.

Future Study Options

Graduates of this program are eligible to transfer with advanced standing into Semester 5 of the three-year Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology advanced diploma program (T162).

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$4,067.00 *

Additional Costs

* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2018. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2019 and at later dates.

International students: Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information. 

Financial Assistance

This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.

How to Qualify and Apply

Admission Requirements

Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
  • Grade 12 English (C or U)
  • Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)

** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)

Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.

Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.

Course Exemptions

College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit georgebrown.ca/transferguide for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information.

International Students

Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.  

How to Apply

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges

International Students

Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply. 

International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.

Contact Us

School of Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades

Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 6711

Email: skilledtrades@georgebrown.ca

Office: Casa Loma Campus, Room E308

For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.

International Students

Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page

Visit Our Campus

Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus Information Session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.

Sign up for an Information Session.

Sign up and learn more about your options, our programs, and life at George Brown.