Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technology Program (T162)

2022-20232023-2024
  • Program Name:
    Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technology
  • Code: T162
  • Credential:
    Ontario College Advanced Diploma
  • Method of Study:
    Full-time
  • Duration:
    3 years (6 semesters)
  • Centre:
  • School: Apprenticeship & Skilled Trades
  • Location: Casa Loma Campus
  • Starting Months: January, September
  • Domestic Tuition:
    $3,812.00 *
  • International Tuition:
    $16,830.00 **
  • Winter 2023 Delivery:
    Semester 1, 2, 4: Hybrid; Semester 6: Online
  • Spring 2023 Delivery:
    Semester 2: Hybrid

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Program Overview

This three-year HVAC advanced diploma program will provide you with an understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling and maintaining energy-efficient building environmental systems. The first two years of the program will give you practical skills through hands-on projects in the shops. You will be working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in our labs. In the third year, there is an additional focus on commercial systems.

Full Description

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

This HVAC program has been developed to address the current and future needs of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry. In the first two years, you will study residential and some light commercial systems. In the third year, there is an additional focus on commercial systems.

You will develop a firm understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling and maintaining energy-efficient building environmental systems for a wide variety of requirements.

The program covers the basics of air system and hydronic (water) system theory, required to design distribution systems and select appropriate fans, pumps, heating and cooling plants, and system controls for larger buildings.

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.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Relate effectively to heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration supervisors, coworkers and customers.
  2. Comply with applicable acts, regulations, legislation and codes to maintain personal and public safety.
  3. Solve scientific, mathematical and engineering problems related to designing, operating and installing energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
  4. Prepare and analyze detailed drawings, and compile technical specifications for energy systems.
  5. Design, operate and install energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
  6. Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development that 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

SEMESTER 5

CodeCourse Name
HVAC 3010Commercial Load Estimating
HVAC 3011Air Distribution Design
HVAC 3012Hydronic System Design
HVAC 3020Quantity Surveying
BLDG 3066Entrepreneurship & Business for HVAC
CADE 3012AutoCAD I

SEMESTER 6

CodeCourse Name
HVAC 3013AutoCAD for HVAC
HVAC 3014Building Environment Systems Control Laboratory
HVAC 3015Commercial Refrigeration System Design
HVAC 3016Commercial/Industrial Ventilation System Design
HVAC 3017Mechanical Systems Estimating
BLDG 2022Law and Construction Contracts

**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

On successful completion of this program, students will 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, in the Building Code for HVAC (HVAC 2014) course 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.

 

Successful graduates of this advanced diploma program may find employment opportunities in a broad range of disciplines within the industry, including:

  • consulting engineering and architectural firms
  • design/build contractors
  • school boards
  • commercial refrigeration installation and maintenance companies
  • building automation and control companies
  • building maintenance
  • HVAC/R manufacturing, sales and distribution companies

Graduates may also pursue management careers in the mechanical sector of the construction industry or opt to become self-employed specialty contractors.

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$3,812.00 *

International Tuition

$16,830.00 **

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.  

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 Technology Program (T162)

2022-20232023-2024
  • Program Name:
    Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Technology
  • Code: T162
  • Credential:
    Ontario College Advanced Diploma
  • Method of Study:
    Full-time
  • Duration:
    3 years (6 semesters)
  • Centre:
  • School: Apprenticeship & Skilled Trades
  • Location: Casa Loma Campus
  • Starting Months: January, September
  • Domestic Tuition:
    $3,819.00 *
  • Winter 2022 Delivery:
    Semester 1, 2, 4: Hybrid; Semester 6: Online
  • Spring 2022 Delivery:
    Semester 2: Hybrid

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Program Overview

This three-year HVAC advanced diploma program will provide you with an understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling and maintaining energy-efficient building environmental systems. The first two years of the program will give you practical skills through hands-on projects in the shops. You will be working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in our labs. In the third year, there is an additional focus on commercial systems.

Full Description

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

This HVAC program has been developed to address the current and future needs of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry. In the first two years, you will study residential and some light commercial systems. In the third year, there is an additional focus on commercial systems.

You will develop a firm understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling and maintaining energy-efficient building environmental systems for a wide variety of requirements.

The program covers the basics of air system and hydronic (water) system theory, required to design distribution systems and select appropriate fans, pumps, heating and cooling plants, and system controls for larger buildings.

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.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Relate effectively to heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration supervisors, coworkers and customers.
  2. Comply with applicable acts, regulations, legislation and codes to maintain personal and public safety.
  3. Solve scientific, mathematical and engineering problems related to designing, operating and installing energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
  4. Prepare and analyze detailed drawings, and compile technical specifications for energy systems.
  5. Design, operate and install energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
  6. Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development that 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

SEMESTER 5

CodeCourse Name
HVAC 3010Commercial Load Estimating
HVAC 3011Air Distribution Design
HVAC 3012Hydronic System Design
HVAC 3020Quantity Surveying
BLDG 3066Entrepreneurship & Business for HVAC
CADE 3012AutoCAD I

SEMESTER 6

CodeCourse Name
HVAC 3013AutoCAD for HVAC
HVAC 3014Building Environment Systems Control Laboratory
HVAC 3015Commercial Refrigeration System Design
HVAC 3016Commercial/Industrial Ventilation System Design
HVAC 3017Mechanical Systems Estimating
BLDG 2022Law and Construction Contracts

**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 advanced diploma program may find employment opportunities in a broad range of disciplines within the industry, including:

  • consulting engineering and architectural firms
  • design/build contractors
  • school boards
  • commercial refrigeration installation and maintenance companies
  • building automation and control companies
  • building maintenance
  • HVAC/R manufacturing, sales and distribution companies

Graduates may also pursue management careers in the mechanical sector of the construction industry or opt to become self-employed specialty contractors.

Career Options

On successful completion of this program, students will 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, in the Building Code for HVAC (HVAC 2014) course 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.

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$3,819.00 *

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.  

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 Technology Program (T162)

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.

This program will provide you with an understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling and maintaining energy-efficient building environmental systems. The first two years of the program will give you practical skills through hands-on projects in the shops. You will be working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in our labs.

Full Description

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

This program has been developed to address the current and future needs of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry. In the first two years you will study residential and some light commercial systems. In the third year there is an additional focus on commercial systems.

You will develop a firm understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling and maintaining energy-efficient building environmental systems for a wide variety of requirements.

The program covers the basics of air system and hydronic (water) system theory, required to design distribution systems and select appropriate fans, pumps, heating and cooling plants, and system controls for larger buildings.

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.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Relate effectively to heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration supervisors, coworkers and customers.
  2. Comply with applicable acts, regulations, legislation, and codes to maintain personal and public safety.
  3. Solve scientific, mathematical, and engineering problems related to designing, operating, and installing energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
  4. Prepare and analyze detailed drawings, and compile technical specifications for energy systems.
  5. Design, operate, and install energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
  6. Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development that 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

SEMESTER 5

semester courses
CodeCourse Name
HVAC3010Commercial Load Estimating
HVAC3011Air Distribution Design
HVAC3012Hydronic System Design
HVAC3020Quantity Surveying
BLDG3052Construction Business Management
CADE3012AutoCAD I

SEMESTER 6

semester courses
CodeCourse Name
HVAC3013AutoCAD for HVAC
HVAC3014Building Environment Systems Control Laboratory
HVAC3015Commercial Refrigeration System Design
HVAC3016Commercial/Industrial Ventilation System Design
HVAC3017Mechanical Systems Estimating
BLDG2022Law and Construction Contracts

Detailed course outlines

General Education Electives

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Your Career

Successful graduates of this advanced diploma program may find employment opportunities in a broad range of disciplines within the industry, including:

  • Consulting engineering and architectural firms
  • Design/build contractors
  • School boards
  • Commercial refrigeration installation and maintenance companies
  • Building automation and control companies
  • Building maintenance
  • HVAC/R manufacturing, sales and distribution companies

Graduates may also pursue management careers in the mechanical sector of the construction industry or opt to become self-employed specialty contractors.

Career Options

On successful completion of this program, students will 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, in the Building Code for HVAC (HVAC 2014) course 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.

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$3,774.00 *

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.

Apply to

Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges

International Students

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

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 Technology Program (T162)

2022-20232023-2024

Compare up to 3 programs

Overview

Program Overview

This program will provide you with a firm understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling and maintaining functioning and energy-efficient building environmental systems. The first two years of the program will give you practical skills through hands-on projects in the shops. You will be working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in our labs.

Full Description

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

This program has been developed to address the current and future needs of the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC/R) industry. In the first two years you will study residential and some light commercial systems. In the third year there is an additional focus on commercial systems.

You will develop a firm understanding of the factors involved in designing, building, controlling and maintaining energy-efficient building environmental systems for a wide variety of requirements.

The program covers the basics of air system and hydronic (water) system theory, required to design distribution systems and select appropriate fans, pumps, heating and cooling plants, and system controls for larger buildings.

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.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Relate effectively to heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration supervisors, coworkers and customers.
  2. Comply with applicable acts, regulations, legislation, and codes to maintain personal and public safety.
  3. Solve scientific, mathematical, and engineering problems related to designing, operating, and installing energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
  4. Prepare and analyze detailed drawings, and compile technical specifications for energy systems.
  5. Design, operate, and install energy systems for commercial and industrial complexes.
  6. Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development that 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

SEMESTER 5

semester courses
CodeCourse Name
HVAC3010Commercial Load Estimating
HVAC3011Air Distribution Design
HVAC3012Hydronic System Design
HVAC3020Quantity Surveying
BLDG3052Construction Business Management
CADE3012AutoCAD I

SEMESTER 6

semester courses
CodeCourse Name
HVAC3013AutoCAD for HVAC
HVAC3014Building Environment Systems Control Laboratory
HVAC3015Commercial Refrigeration System Design
HVAC3016Commercial/Industrial Ventilation System Design
HVAC3017Mechanical Systems Estimating
BLDG2022Law and Construction Contracts

General Education Electives

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Your Career

Successful graduates of this advanced diploma program may find employment opportunities in a broad range of disciplines within the industry, including:

  • Consulting engineering and architectural firms
  • Design/build contractors
  • School boards
  • Commercial refrigeration installation and maintenance companies
  • Building automation and control companies
  • Building maintenance
  • HVAC/R manufacturing, sales and distribution companies

Graduates may also pursue management careers in the mechanical sector of the construction industry or opt to become self-employed specialty contractors.

Career Options

On successful completion of this program, students will 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, in the Building Code for HVAC (HVAC 2014) course 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.

Tuition and Fees

Domestic Tuition

$4,070.00 *

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.

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