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).

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.

What You’ll Learn

• Develop practical skills through hands-on experience, working on a wide range of furnaces, air conditioners, refrigeration equipment and other appliances in the 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.
• Relate effectively to heating, refrigeration and air conditioning supervisors, coworkers and customers.
• Work safely and in accordance with all applicable acts, regulations, legislation and codes to ensure personal and public safety.
• Select and use a variety of heating, refrigeration and air conditioning tools and equipment safely and properly.
• Solve math and applied science problems required to effectively install and maintain heating, refrigeration and air conditioning systems, and associated components.
• Prepare and interpret electrical, mechanical and piping drawings.
• Install, service and troubleshoot heating, refrigeration, air conditioning systems and associated components.
• Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development that will lead to enhanced work performance and career opportunities, and keep pace with industry changes.

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.