Real World Training for a Hands-On Career.
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology Diploma Program in Shelton
Looking for a hands-on career where your skills keep people safe and comfortable? The Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology Diploma Program at Â鶹ÉçTech’s Shelton campus helps you build the technical skills you need to install, maintain, and repair the systems that control indoor environments. You train on heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems using tools and equipment found in today’s residential and commercial settings. This program prepares you to enter the workforce with real-world experience to perform the tasks of an HVAC technician in the growing HVAC field1.
Build your future in climate control and enroll in the Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology Diploma Program at our Shelton, Connecticut campus today.
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology Diploma Program Delivery
Day and evening programs are available. Hands-on instruction is provided on-campus, with some coursework delivered online. Â鶹ÉçTech also utilizes animations and simulations so you can experience interactive learning that enhances skill development, reinforces concepts, and allows you to practice troubleshooting in a risk-free environment.
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology Diploma Program Length
- Total Semester Credit Hours: 55.0
- Instructional Hours: 1320
- Completion Time: Approximately 52 weeks (day program) and approximately 80 weeks (evening program)
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology Diploma Program Classes and Curriculum
Developed in collaboration with industry professionals, the Â鶹ÉçTech academic approach ensures that our programs align with current employer requirements and technological advancements. Combining theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on training, your courses are designed to provide you with entry-level HVAC knowledge and skills. You learn to correctly test, diagnose, replace, repair, and adjust the components of HVAC mechanical and electronic systems. You also learn invaluable skills in professionalism, customer service, and career success.
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology Diploma Program Objectives
- Install, service, and maintain residential and commercial HVAC systems.
- Understand and apply electrical and mechanical concepts.
- Interpret wiring diagrams and schematics for HVAC systems.
- Recover and recycle refrigerants in accordance with .
- Use diagnostic tools and instruments to troubleshoot HVAC systems.
- Work with air distribution systems and perform airflow measurements.
- Follow and environmental best practices.
- Communicate clearly with customers and coworkers.
- Prepare for EPA Section 608 certification and other relevant exams.
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology Diploma Program Career Outcomes
As a graduate of the Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Systems Technology Diploma program in Shelton, you may find entry-level employment at:
- Commercial building maintenance firms
- Residential construction contractors
- Refrigeration service providers
- Facilities management teams
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology Training in Shelton
Students in Â鶹ÉçTech’s Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Systems Technology Diploma program in Shelton train in well-equipped facilities, using advanced tools. Â鶹ÉçTech’s blend of technical instruction, energy auditing training, and access to specialized opportunities like the Hussmann advanced training program provides a strong pathway to a career in climate control technology.
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Heating Technology — Shelton
HVACR411D — Diploma Program
CIP Code: 15.0501
SOC Code: 49-9021
Day and Evening Â鶹Éç
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 55.0 |
|---|---|
| Instructional Hours | 1320 |
| Weeks to Complete — Day | Approximately 52 weeks (including holidays and scheduled breaks) |
| Weeks to Complete — Evening | Approximately 80 weeks (including holidays and scheduled breaks) |
Program Objective
The Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration field anticipates high demand for skilled technicians according to the U.S Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. This program prepares students to be skilled in the operation, design, installation, troubleshooting, and repair of air conditioning, refrigeration, heating, and ventilation equipment for today and the future.
Students enrolled in this program will obtain instruction and demonstrate skills and knowledge in construction safety, measuring and blueprint reading, and calculations of ductwork & heating systems emphasizing heat loss and heat gain heating and cooling calculations. Students are also instructed on domestic and commercial refrigeration systems, and gas, oil, and electric heating of both water and steam. The systems that control indoor climate are constantly evolving to reflect technological advancements and environmental concerns and Â鶹Éçstudents will be prepared to meet the evolution.
Students will receive both classroom and lab learning opportunities simulating real-world applications. Students are trained in the installation and repair of refrigeration, heating, and cooling mechanical and electrical control systems of both residential homes and commercial buildings. In addition, students receive instruction in energy efficiency, and renewable energy, as well as energy conservation practices, energy auditing techniques, and system performance verification of heating and cooling equipment.
Upon completion of this program, graduates may meet the essential entry-level skills and knowledge required of an HVAC technician. With additional experience, graduates may pursue opportunities allowing them to work independently, without direct supervision; supervise crews or teams of other technicians; or start their own business. Graduates may also choose to specialize in one or more specific areas of the HVAC market including refrigeration, air conditioning, and heating.
Students will be required to complete out-of-class assignments in each course.
Foundation Courses
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course is designed to present the learner with basic mathematical fundamentals required by today’s HVAC technicians. This course will consist of basic mathematical concepts such as addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication which will then be applied to concepts of the HVAC trade. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
HV131A |
Course Description
This course is designed to present the learner mathematical concepts as they relate to the HVAC industry. Students will apply basic mathematics operations to whole numbers and common fractions, and learn to convert decimals to fractions, percentages, and averages used by today’s HVAC technicians. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course is designed to teach a student the core fundamental concepts of refrigeration. This will include knowledge of basic refrigeration components, energy transfer, pressure and temperature relationships, and various gas laws. Students will also learn the use of test instruments such as temperature analyzers, bar gauge manifold assembly, electronic leak detectors, and vacuum pumps. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course is designed to teach students the basic principles of electrical theory. Students will gain knowledge about DC and AC currents, series circuits, parallel circuits, transformers, and various power sources. Additional topics will include electrical schematics, relays and circuit layouts. Throughout this course students will perform lab experiments in resistance, voltage, and current in various circuits. Students will also learn the operation, testing, and repair of AC motors. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course is designed to prepare students to successfully achieve their Occupational Safety and Health Administration 30 hour certification. Students will achieve knowledge in proper recordkeeping techniques, general safety practices, health hazard awareness, the usage of personal protective equipment, fire protection safety, cranes and rigging, stairways and ladders, confined spaces and other OSHA safety standards and practices. Students will be given the opportunity to complete their OSHA 30 certification during this course. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
HV132, HV133 |
Course Description
This course is designed to broaden a student’s knowledge in the field of refrigeration. The domestic section of course covers the radiation characteristics of different metals, the operation of different pumps, and the principals involved in expansion and contraction. The course then progresses to cover the air conditioning and refrigeration equipment found in a residential setting. Students learn to install, troubleshoot, and repair the mechanical and electrical components of household refrigerators, chest-type and open-door freezers, window air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and thru-wall air conditioners and heat pumps. In addition, students will improve their skills developing electrical schematics for domestic systems and their related peripherals including time clocks, multi-speed fans, and selector switches. Students will explore the components and uses of these systems including their methods of heat transfer, temperature controls, humidity controls, defrost methods, and in-line controls, systems covered include low temperature refrigerators, reach-in freezers, refrigerated vending machines, chillers, and commercial ice machines. Students will then learn the proper techniques used in installation, troubleshooting, and repair of these systems. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
HV132 |
Course Description
This course concentrates on the many methods of heat transfer in the air conditioning and heating modes. Systems covered include packaged and split air conditioners and heat pumps, both residential and light commercial. Each student will learn the seven steps in application engineering which includes building survey, load calculations, equipment selection, air distribution systems, installation, start-up procedures, and system balancing. Students will also use the proper test equipment in the repair and troubleshooting of these systems. In addition, students will learn about the special piping and plumbing methods in use today. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course will begin with a discussion of fuel oils in use today and their relationship to today’s oil burners. Students will progress to study the different components of oil burners, proper servicing and preventative maintenance techniques, and related components. Instruction includes servicing the nozzle, ignition assembly, various fuel pumps, and making adjustments for combustion efficiency. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
HV133, HV137A |
Course Description
In this course students will learn the effects of incomplete combustion and discuss the elements oxygen, spark, and fuel that make up perfect combustion. Students will learn how to use various combustion equipment to check for combustion problems and excessive fuel consumption. Additionally students will learn about various fuel storage options. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course concentrates on the refrigerant standards set forth by the EPA. Students will learn about the different refrigerants used today and the refrigerants of the future. They will be trained according to EPA standards in the proper recovery, storage and evacuation of refrigerant containing appliances. Students will be prepared to take the EPA 608 certification exam. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course concentrates on the skills required to interpret orthographic projections, isometric, and detail drawings. In addition, students will learn to read and interpret blueprints as they relate to the building trades. This course will also cover the layout and design of Heating and A/C systems. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course concentrates on gas and oil fired warm air, hot water, and steam based heating systems. Students will learn the installation, troubleshooting, and repair techniques of these systems along with other related topics. Various heat transfer methods such as hydronic and steam radiation will also be covered. In addition, students will learn to plan, design, and lay out a heating system typically found in a residential setting. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
HV136, HV140 |
Course Description
This course concentrates on gas and oil fired warm air and cooling systems. This course will focus on components, venting requirements and operation. Students will also gain knowledge in installation, troubleshooting, and repairing of various heating and cooling systems. Additionally, students will learn to plan, design, and lay out a heating system typically found in a residential setting. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course begins with a discussion on metals used in piping for the HVAC/R industry. Among those discussed will be black iron, cast iron, galvanized metals, copper, brass and steel. Students will learn different piping methods for joining and installing piping systems for HVAC/R. Students will learn and demonstrate proper brazing, soldering, threading and other joining techniques. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
Students will learn the proper use and implementation of the various codes governing the installation and service of HVACR equipment and plumbing applications as set forth in the International Mechanical Code. Students will learn to quickly find the regulations pertaining to specific jobs and how to follow them. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
Students will learn the proper use and implementation of the various codes governing the installation and service of HVACR equipment and plumbing applications as set forth in the International Plumbing Code and other various related codes. Students will learn to quickly find the regulations pertaining to specific jobs and how to follow them. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course will focus on air distribution through ducted systems: how they are designed, installed and balanced. This class will also focus on air cleanliness and ways to treat air in a ducted system though the usage of filters, UV lights and other means. The tools used to measure air and airflow will also be discussed. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
HV145A |
Course Description
This course will focus on the sheet metal tools, machinery and safety in a sheet metal shop. Types of sheet metal, materials and fasteners will be discussed and demonstrated. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
HV140 |
Course Description
This course is designed to teach students the fundamentals of natural gas and oil fired hydronic and steam systems. Students will learn about water side components, electrical wiring, piping configurations, pumps and maintenance procedures. Additionally students will troubleshoot various component failures using equipment and visual trainers. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
None |
Course Description
This course will introduce students to standards set forth by the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Associations standards. Various installation standards such as basic duct construction, duct design, duct performance, duct sealants, flexible duct, grills, and register connections will be covered in detail. Additionally, students will learn application codes and installation of fire and smoke dampers and access doors. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
HV136, HV140 |
Course Description
This course introduces HVAC students to Green Technology and its impact on the HVAC industry. Students will receive an overview about green alternatives to comfort heating and cooling systems. Topics will include learning methods for evaluating energy efficiency in any building structure, Solar Thermal and Geothermal Green Technologies.
Students will also learn the fundamentals of Energy Auditing by conducting mechanical and envelope evaluation and pressure analysis, and by pressure analysis, and performing infrared imaging (Thermography). Students are strongly encouraged to complete certification testing conducted by the Green Mech (Green Mechanical Council). Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
| Lecture Hours | 36 |
|---|---|
| Lab / Shop Hours | 24 |
| Total Hours | 60 |
| Total Credits | 2.5 |
| Prerequisites |
HV120A, HV136, HV140 |
Course Description
This course continues the study of Green Technology and its impact on the HVAC industry. Students will learn the fundamentals of Solar Thermal and Geothermal energy systems. Topics include basic theory of each system, components, repair and sizing of these systems. Additionally trainers/simulators are used to visually reinforce concepts learned in the classroom. Professional development exercises and seminars are also included in this course.
Notes:
Course numbers and sequences are listed here for reference only. The actual delivery sequence of courses contained in this program may vary depending on individual campus scheduling. Maximum Time Frame: 82.5 semester credits. *Prerequisite required.
1 O-Net Online, , retrieved August 14, 2025.
Mode of Delivery: Residential, Blended Learning, or Online are the methods we may use to deliver content in each course. The Residential courses are offered on ground at the campus. Blended courses are offered by delivering a fraction of the course in an online format as well as the traditional face-to-face method. Online courses are delivered 100% online. The Blended delivery and online delivery plan will implement distance education activities into each course in the program of study. The use of simulations, case studies, assessments, and multimedia may be used to enhance the student’s understanding of the learning objectives outlined in the course syllabus
*The listing of credits is not meant to imply that credits can be transferred into college or other private career school programs. Transfer credits are at the sole discretion of the receiving school.
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