Program Title:

Master Heating and Cooling Specialist

Duration:

Approximately 12 weeks (flexible pacing; each module could be 1-2 weeks depending on student availability)

Format:

100% online (asynchronous lectures, readings, activities, and live or recorded Q&A sessions)

Target Audience:

Aspiring HVAC technicians, heating and cooling specialists, facility managers, engineers, and anyone interested in mastering the design, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of modern heating and cooling systems.

Program Outcomes:

Upon completion, learners will be able to:

• Understand and implement industry best practices in heating and cooling system design, installation, and maintenance.

• Evaluate, diagnose, and troubleshoot a wide range of heating and cooling issues.

• Utilize advanced diagnostic tools and technologies for system performance optimization.

• Develop energy-efficient solutions and maintenance strategies for diverse environments.

• Analyze and enhance the performance of existing heating and cooling systems.

• Demonstrate leadership and problem-solving skills in real-world heating and cooling scenarios.

Course Structure

The program is divided into 12 modules. Each module includes:

• Video Lectures: Concise, engaging lessons delivered by experienced heating and cooling experts.

• Readings & Reference Materials: Curated articles, technical manuals, industry standards, and official documentation.

• Case Studies & Real-World Scenarios: Practical examples and simulated exercises to illustrate key concepts.

• Interactive Activities & Quizzes: Hands-on labs and assessments to reinforce learning.

• Assignments: Practical tasks that simulate real-world heating and cooling challenges.

• Discussion Forums: For peer interaction, Q&A, and knowledge sharing.

Detailed Module Breakdown

Module 1: Introduction to Heating and Cooling

Objective: Understand the fundamentals of heating and cooling systems and the current industry landscape.
Topics Covered: Overview of heating and cooling technologies, key terminologies, types of systems (e.g., furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps), and the role of climate control in comfort and efficiency.
Activities: Introductory quiz and discussion forum.

Module 2: System Design & Fundamentals

Objective: Learn the principles of designing effective heating and cooling systems.
Topics Covered: Load calculations, system sizing, component selection, and design considerations for residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Activities: Case study analysis and design exercise.

Module 3: Installation & Commissioning

Objective: Gain insights into the proper installation and commissioning of heating and cooling systems.
Topics Covered: Installation best practices, system setup, calibration, and initial testing procedures.
Activities: Hands-on simulation lab for system installation.

Module 4: System Operation & Control

Objective: Understand the operational mechanics and control strategies for heating and cooling systems.
Topics Covered: Thermostatic controls, zoning strategies, automated control systems, and energy management techniques.
Activities: Practical exercises configuring and optimizing control systems.

Module 5: Maintenance & Troubleshooting

Objective: Learn effective maintenance practices and troubleshooting methods for optimal system performance.
Topics Covered: Preventive maintenance routines, diagnostic tools, common operational issues, and repair strategies.
Activities: Simulated troubleshooting drills and maintenance planning exercises.

Module 6: Energy Efficiency & Optimization

Objective: Master techniques to enhance energy efficiency and reduce operating costs.
Topics Covered: Energy audit methods, efficiency standards, system optimization strategies, and cost-saving measures.
Activities: Practical assignment on conducting an energy efficiency analysis.

Module 7: Heating Technologies

Objective: Explore various heating technologies and their practical applications.
Topics Covered: Gas furnaces, electric heating systems, radiant heating, and emerging heating solutions.
Activities: Lab exercise comparing different heating technologies and their performance metrics.

Module 8: Cooling Technologies

Objective: Understand modern cooling solutions and their implementation strategies.
Topics Covered: Air conditioning systems, evaporative coolers, heat pumps, and advanced cooling technologies.
Activities: Hands-on lab simulation using cooling system diagnostic software.

Module 9: Environmental & Regulatory Considerations

Objective: Navigate the environmental and regulatory landscape impacting heating and cooling systems.
Topics Covered: Energy regulations, environmental impact assessments, refrigerant management, and industry safety standards.
Activities: Discussion forum and compliance case study.

Module 10: Smart Systems & Automation

Objective: Learn about the integration of smart technologies and automation in heating and cooling.
Topics Covered: IoT-enabled HVAC systems, smart thermostats, remote monitoring solutions, and automation for enhanced energy management.
Activities: Practical project configuring a smart heating and cooling system.

Module 11: Emerging Trends & Innovations

Objective: Stay ahead by exploring cutting-edge trends and innovations in the heating and cooling industry.
Topics Covered: Renewable energy integration, hybrid systems, advanced diagnostic tools, and future technological developments.
Activities: Research assignment and group presentation on emerging industry trends.

Module 12: Capstone Project

Objective: Apply learned concepts to develop a comprehensive heating and cooling strategy.
Activities: Create and present a detailed system design, installation, and maintenance plan for a simulated residential or commercial project, integrating all key components from the course.

Certificate

Industry Recognized Certificate of Complition

Teacher

Emily Clark