# Introduction to HVAC & Safety Fundamentals Course Online (Coming Soon)

Canonical URL: <https://vdci.edu/courses/intro-to-hvac-course-online>

## Overview

This course provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) industry. Students will gain foundational knowledge of HVAC systems, industry terminology, career opportunities, safety standards, tools, and basic operational concepts used throughout the trade.

The course is designed to prepare entry-level HVAC apprentices for future technical training by introducing residential and commercial HVAC applications, system components, workplace expectations, and OSHA-based safety practices. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, hazard recognition, safe work habits, and understanding how HVAC systems improve comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency in buildings. In addition, the course helps prepare students for industry-recognized credentials and workforce entry, including OSHA 10 Construction Safety Awareness, EPA 608 Introductory Awareness, and HVAC Employment Readiness Training.

## What you'll learn

- Define HVAC and explain the purpose, history, and evolution of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
- Identify and explain the major types of HVAC systems used in residential and commercial applications, including a comparison of split systems, package units, and heat pumps.
- Recognize the primary components of HVAC systems and their functions.
- Explain the importance of indoor comfort, humidity control, ventilation, and indoor air quality.
- Identify common HVAC tools and equipment used by technicians, and demonstrate their safe handling along with ladders and jobsite materials.
- Describe career pathways and employment opportunities in the HVAC industry, and demonstrate workplace professionalism and communication skills.
- Identify workplace hazards and OSHA safety standards relevant to HVAC, and apply safe work practices, including proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Explain basic electrical safety awareness for HVAC technicians, and understand environmental responsibilities and refrigerant safety awareness.

## Curriculum

#### Unit 1: Introduction to the HVAC Industry

- What HVAC stands for
- Purpose of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
- The role HVAC plays in modern buildings
- Residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC applications
- HVAC industry history and technological evolution
- Overview of HVAC career demand and workforce opportunities
- Learning Activities: Instructor-led discussion, Industry video presentations, HVAC terminology exercises, Classroom discussion on comfort systems

#### Unit 2: HVAC System Types & Applications

- Split systems
- Package units
- Heat pump systems
- Gas furnace systems
- Air conditioning systems
- Rooftop units
- Mini-split systems
- Ventilation systems
- Basic refrigeration concepts overview
- System Components Overview: Thermostats, Air handlers, Compressors, Condensers, Evaporators, and Duct systems
- Learning Activities: Equipment identification lab, System comparison charts, HVAC component demonstrations

#### Unit 3: HVAC Career Paths & Professional Development

- Residential installation careers
- Service technician careers
- Commercial HVAC careers
- Refrigeration technician careers
- Building automation and controls
- Energy management careers
- Apprenticeship opportunities
- Certifications and licensing overview
- Employer expectations
- Workplace Skills: Communication skills, Teamwork, Customer service, Time management, Professional appearance, and Work ethics and accountability
- Learning Activities: Career exploration assignment, Resume and professionalism workshop, and Guest speaker or industry interview

#### Unit 4: HVAC Safety Fundamentals

- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety glasses, Gloves, Respirators, Steel-toe boots, Hearing protection, and Hard hats
- General Jobsite Safety: Housekeeping practices, Hazard identification, Slips, trips, and falls, Ladder safety, Tool safety, and Material handling
- OSHA Awareness: OSHA overview, Employee rights and responsibilities, Workplace safety standards, and Hazard communication basics
- Fire & Chemical Safety: Fire extinguisher basics, Refrigerant exposure awareness, and Chemical handling precautions
- Lockout/Tagout Awareness: Purpose of lockout/tagout, Electrical hazard prevention, and Basic procedures overview
- Learning Activities: PPE demonstrations, Hazard recognition exercises, Ladder safety demonstrations, Safety scenario discussions, and OSHA safety videos

#### Unit 5: Electrical Safety Awareness

- Introduction to electricity
- Electrical shock hazards
- Safe use of electrical tools
- Electrical panels awareness
- Circuit breakers and disconnects
- Grounding basics
- Electrical warning labels
- Arc flash awareness
- Safe work distances
- Learning Activities: Electrical hazard identification, Basic meter demonstrations, and Electrical safety simulations

#### Unit 6: Introduction to HVAC Tools & Equipment

- Hand Tools: Screwdrivers, Nut drivers, Adjustable wrenches, Tubing cutters, and Pliers
- Power Tools: Cordless drills, Saws, and Grinders
- Measuring Instruments: Thermometers, Tape measures, Basic multimeter awareness, and Manifold gauge introduction
- Tool Care & Maintenance: Proper storage, Cleaning procedures, and Inspection practices
- Learning Activities: Tool identification lab, Safe tool handling practice, and Equipment demonstrations

#### Unit 7: Environmental Awareness & Industry Responsibilities

- Introduction to refrigerants
- Environmental impact of refrigerants
- Energy efficiency concepts
- Sustainability in HVAC
- Indoor air quality overview
- Introduction to EPA regulations
- Learning Activities: Energy efficiency discussion, Indoor air quality demonstrations, and Refrigerant awareness presentation

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $579