HVAC-R

HVAC-R

HVAC-R - AAS

BTC’s Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program will prepare you for a career as an HVAC & Refrigeration Technician. You’ll learn new, higher-efficiency technologies and practices, with the valuable hands-on training that employers are looking for. In two years, you can be well-positioned for high-wage employment with heating and air conditioning contractors, refrigeration contractors, hotels, school systems, or industrial processing plants.

Student Chapter of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating & Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)

For more details on industry growth and job opportunities, check out the trade’s Bridging the Skills Gap presentation.

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Video

Employment Information

Data are provided on a program (not credential) level

86% BTC graduate placement rate¹

$45,032 starting annual wage²
$57,741 average annual wage²
$75,317 potential annual wage²

Employment and Wage Data Sources

¹Employment data come from the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) and reflect WA/OR employment for students enrolled at BTC between 2016-17 and 2018-19. Students are included in the employment rate if they left with a credential. Rates are not shown for programs with fewer than 10 students meeting the above criteria.

²Wage data come from Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) 2020 Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates (Washington State wage) and reflect 2015-2018 employment. Wage data represent occupations that BTC faculty have identified as the most relevant career paths for program graduates. Note that these wages reflect employees with varying educational levels/credentials. For cases in which multiple occupations have been identified by faculty, a weighted percentile is calculated using each occupation’s percentile wage and employment size estimate. Wages are not shown for programs for which occupations do not meet the ESD’s minimum thresholds for publishing. If the program has wage data from the Washington SBCTC that involves shift work, these ESD wages reflect the same number of hours used in the annual wage calculation. Starting wage = 25th percentile, median wage = 50^th percentile, wage potential = 75th percentile.

Estimated Program Costs

Estimated Books, Tools and Supplies Costs

Tuition Fees and Rates

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

This program starts in Fall Quarter on a space available basis.

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

Admissions application and assessment testing in Reading, Math and Writing is required. Your score on the test and/or your previous transcripts will determine where you begin your course sequence. Contact Admissions at 360.752.8345 or at admissions@btc.edu for assistance with academic planning.

What are My Next Steps?

1. Apply to BTC and Financial Aid
2. Assess Your Starting Point
3. Advising & Registration
4. Prepare to Attend

Classes

Total Program Credits: 98

Quarter 1
HVACR 101 Fundamentals of Refrigeration 8 CR
This course presents safety in the workplace, the fundamentals of vapor compression refrigeration, HVAC/R tools, equipment and refrigerants. Students will build a working refrigeration system in the lab portion of this course. Instructors will have the students pressure test, evacuate, and charge their systems with industry standard equipment.
HVACR 102 Basic Electricity for HVACR 8 CR
This course presents the fundamentals of electrical theory, controls, motors, and applications. Emphasis is placed on proper diagnostic and troubleshooting procedures. Lectures and assigned readings are supplemented by the student's individual work on projects in the lab on an electrical circuitry trainer. Proper electrical safety and codes are observed in the coursework.
AMATH 100 Applied Occupational Math 5 CR
This course emphasizes mathematics used in the professional technical occupations. Students will learn mathematical skills in the following: fractions, decimals, percents, ratios & proportions, U.S. Customary Units and metric measurement systems, basic geometry and elementary algebra. The course will include relevent technical applications and the use of a calculator.
Future Offerings:
Summer 2022
07/06/2022-08/30/2022 Kristine Newton
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 2
HVACR 121 Commercial Self-Contained Systems 7 CR
This course analyzes medium and low temperature refrigeration systems and components used in commercial applications. Emphasis is placed on safe trouble-shooting techniques on live equipment as installed in industry.
HVACR 122 Commercial Ice Systems 7 CR
This course introduces the various types and makes of commercial ice production systems used in restaurants, institutions, and process applications. Wiring diagrams and sequence of operations are emphasized. Proper installation, maintenance, cleaning, sanitizing and troubleshooting techniques are emphasized. The student will verify proper production, learn how to build a wiring schematic, identify faults inserted by instructor and repair the inserted faults. Students must test for EPA section 608 certification and pass with a minimum of Type 2 certification in order to pass this course.
AENGL 100 Applied English 5 CR
This applied English course focuses on the workplace communication skills needed to send, receive, and process oral and written information. Along with a review of writing fundamentals, learners will use principles of clear communication, professionalism, and cultural awareness in occupational contexts. Learners will sharpen their reading, writing, and presentation skills.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-06/23/2022 MW 10:00 AM-11:30 AM Jenna Gernand
Summer 2022
07/06/2022-08/30/2022 Jill Burns
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 3
HVACR 131 Furnace Technology 7 CR
This course introduces gas piping, venting and control systems for several different types of furnaces in residential and commercial applications. Emphasis is placed on electrical safety, BTU calculations, and airflow calculations, cost analysis, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting techniques. Classroom discussion and hands on lab activities are designed to enable students to quickly identify system problems and propose solutions.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
04/05/2022-05/11/2022 MTWTh 8:00 AM-11:00 AM Robert Edwards
04/05/2022-05/11/2022 MTWTh 12:00 PM-3:00 PM Robert Edwards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
HVACR 132 Boilers and Hydronic Heat 7 CR
This course explores the use of boilers and hydronics to heat residential and commercial buildings. Students will apply proper tools and techniques to identify components, design, install, maintain and troubleshoot problems in hydronic heating systems. Systems used in the lab will use natural gas, propane, or fuel oil for residential and commercial boilers.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
05/12/2022-06/23/2022 MTWTh 8:00 AM-11:00 AM Robert Edwards
05/12/2022-06/23/2022 MTWTh 12:00 PM-2:45 PM Robert Edwards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 4
HVACR 201 A/C & Airflow 8 CR
This course prepares the student to install, start-up, troubleshoot and diagnose problems in comfort cooling air conditioning systems. Emphasis is given to wiring techniques, proper refrigeration piping, controls, start-up and maintenance.
Future Offerings:
Fall 2022
09/20/2022-11/03/2022 MTWTh 8:00 AM-11:00 AM Robert Edwards
09/20/2022-11/03/2022 MTWTh 12:00 PM-2:30 PM Robert Edwards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
HVACR 202 Applied Heat Pump Systems 5 CR
This course prepares the student to install, start-up, troubleshoot and diagnose problems in residential and commercial heat pump systems. Emphasis is given to wiring techniques, proper refrigeration piping, controls, start-up and maintenance. Integration of auxiliary heat components, balance point identification, cost analysis to other fuels, and geothermal systems are all introduced and applied in the lab.
Future Offerings:
Fall 2022
11/08/2022-12/08/2022 MTWTh 8:00 AM-11:00 AM Robert Edwards
11/08/2022-12/08/2022 MTWTh 12:00 PM-2:00 PM Robert Edwards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 5
HVACR 221 Commercial Refrigeration 8 CR
This course expands on commercial refrigeration systems presented in HVACR 121 and HVACR 122. Five different commercial systems will be utilized in the lab area in conjunction with the lecture portion of this course. Each ancillary component is analyzed for compatibility, proper selection, operation, need, energy savings and equipment reliability. Wiring diagrams are emphasized and diagnosis of failed components is also addressed. How the system operates as a whole is critical and students are encouraged to research new and innovative applications for these systems.
Future Offerings:
Winter 2023
01/04/2023-02/14/2023 MTWTh 8:00 AM-11:00 AM Robert Edwards
01/04/2023-02/14/2023 MTWTh 12:00 PM-3:00 PM Robert Edwards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
HVACR 222 Industrial Refrigeration 7 CR
This course will provide an in depth study of industrial applications of chilled water-cooling systems. Classroom activities are supplemented by students individual and group work on five lab projects including screw compressors and a cooling tower. Analyzing various systems for cost benefits, installation, service and proper annual maintenance procedures are emphasized. Transcritical and ammonia systems and all the related safety implications are included in this course. Students must pass the Commercial Refrigeration Industry Competency Exam (ICE) in order to pass this course.
Future Offerings:
Winter 2023
02/15/2023-03/23/2023 MTWTh 8:00 AM-11:00 AM Robert Edwards
02/15/2023-03/23/2023 MTWTh 12:00 PM-3:00 PM Robert Edwards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
Quarter 6

HVACR 231

Control Theory for HVAC/R

8 CR

HVACR 232

Commercial & Industrial Boilers

2 CR

HVACR 233 Employment Preparation 1 CR
This course prepares students with the necessary skills to research companies in the HVAC/R industry, successfully create a professional resume and cover letter, and practice articulating their HVAC/R skills and experience in mock interviews.
Future Offerings:
Spring 2022
06/06/2022-06/22/2022 MTWTh 3:00 PM-4:00 PM Robert Edwards
Spring 2023
06/01/2023-06/22/2023 MTWTh 12:00 PM-12:55 PM Robert Edwards
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.
CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communications 5 CR
Designed to introduce students to the application of basic interpersonal communication theory, with a focus on achieving success in the workplace. Topics explored include self-awareness, self-disclosure, conversation skills, relationship development and maintenance, assertiveness, teamwork and group dynamics, conflict management strategies, and communicating in a diverse world.
Future Offerings:
Summer 2022
07/06/2022-08/30/2022 MW 12:30 PM-1:50 PM Jill Burns
Icon Key
- Online Asynchronous
- Online Synchronous
- Hybrid Asynchronous
- Hybrid Synchronous
- Face-to-Face
- Self-Support
- Definitions
  Online Asynchronous - The class is taught completely online. There are no scheduled class times that are required; all online work is completed asynchronously. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Online Synchronous - The class is taught completely online; attendance at scheduled online class meetings at specific times is required. There is no face-to-face instruction.
  Hybrid Asynchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times; all online work is completed asynchronously.
  Hybrid Synchronous - This is a hybrid class. The class meets both face-to-face and online for scheduled classes at specific times.
  Face-to-Face - This class meets face-to-face for scheduled classes at specific times. There is no online instruction, although an online learning platform may be used supplementally.
  
  Self Support - Self-Support classes have different fees and refund policy than state-supported classes. See the Tuition and Fees page for more details.
  
  Synchronous - Online class meetings are scheduled to occur in real time.
  Asynchronous - No required online class meetings are scheduled.
  
  Note: All modalities include regular coursework due dates and require class participation.

Program Outcomes

After successfully completing this program, students will be able to:

Safely and properly install and service systems adhering to environmental laws and regulations as they apply to the HVAC/R industry.
Demonstrate positive work traits and good customer service skills as a member of a technical team.
Diagnose and repair common electrical and mechanical problems in HVAC/R residential, commercial and industrial systems.
Communicate effectively in writing and verbally with customers, managers, and co-workers.
Identify and use appropriate technical literature to install, maintain and service HVAC/R systems.

Employment Outlook

About 75% of BTC HVAC & Refrigeration students are employed within nine months of graduation. The average annual wage in this field is $53,685, with an earning potential of about $64,355 per year.*

Criminal convictions may restrict or prevent student participation with internships and employment in this industry.

Most program graduates work as technicians for private heating, air conditioning, or refrigeration service companies. Opportunities may also exist to work for heating and air conditioning dealers, manufacturing companies, food processors and in self-employment.

Potential positions include heating and air conditioning technician, heating and air conditioning service person, heating and air conditioning installer, contractor, estimator, food industry mechanic, or gasfitter.

Spring 2022
	04/05/2022-06/23/2022	MW	10:00 AM-11:30 AM	Jenna Gernand
Summer 2022
	07/06/2022-08/30/2022			Jill Burns

Spring 2022
	04/05/2022-05/11/2022	MTWTh	8:00 AM-11:00 AM	Robert Edwards
	04/05/2022-05/11/2022	MTWTh	12:00 PM-3:00 PM	Robert Edwards

Spring 2022
	05/12/2022-06/23/2022	MTWTh	8:00 AM-11:00 AM	Robert Edwards
	05/12/2022-06/23/2022	MTWTh	12:00 PM-2:45 PM	Robert Edwards

Fall 2022
	09/20/2022-11/03/2022	MTWTh	8:00 AM-11:00 AM	Robert Edwards
	09/20/2022-11/03/2022	MTWTh	12:00 PM-2:30 PM	Robert Edwards

Fall 2022
	11/08/2022-12/08/2022	MTWTh	8:00 AM-11:00 AM	Robert Edwards
	11/08/2022-12/08/2022	MTWTh	12:00 PM-2:00 PM	Robert Edwards

Winter 2023
	01/04/2023-02/14/2023	MTWTh	8:00 AM-11:00 AM	Robert Edwards
	01/04/2023-02/14/2023	MTWTh	12:00 PM-3:00 PM	Robert Edwards

Winter 2023
	02/15/2023-03/23/2023	MTWTh	8:00 AM-11:00 AM	Robert Edwards
	02/15/2023-03/23/2023	MTWTh	12:00 PM-3:00 PM	Robert Edwards

Spring 2022
	04/05/2022-06/02/2022	MTWTh	9:35 AM-11:00 AM	Robert Edwards
	04/05/2022-06/02/2022	MTWTh	12:00 PM-3:00 PM	Robert Edwards
Spring 2023
	04/05/2023-05/31/2023	MTWTh	8:00 AM-11:00 AM	Robert Edwards
	04/05/2023-05/31/2023	MTWTh	12:00 PM-1:15 PM	Robert Edwards

Spring 2022
	06/06/2022-06/22/2022	MTWTh	12:00 PM-2:00 PM	Robert Edwards
	06/06/2022-06/22/2022	MTWTh	10:00 AM-11:00 AM	Robert Edwards
Spring 2023
	06/01/2023-06/22/2023	MTWTh	8:00 AM-9:00 AM	Robert Edwards
	06/01/2023-06/22/2023	M	9:00 AM-11:00 AM	Robert Edwards

Summer 2022
	07/06/2022-08/30/2022	MW	12:30 PM-1:50 PM	Jill Burns

HVAC-R

HVAC-R - AAS

Employment Information

Estimated Program Costs

Entry Information

When Can I Start?

What are the Minimum Entry Requirements?

What are My Next Steps?

Classes

Total Program Credits: 98

Quarter 1

Quarter 2

Quarter 3

Quarter 4

Quarter 5

Quarter 6

Program Outcomes

Employment Outlook

Faculty & Support

Robert Edwards