In the relatively warm climate of California, the indoor comfort level is critical. Consumers invest a lot in their cooling and heating systems but that investment will be useless without the support of a professional HVAC technician to install, maintain, and repair their heating and cooling systems. The temperature inside residential and commercial buildings affects productive, health, comfort, and may be a determining factor in life or death in some instances. It’s easy to understand the job outlook for professional HVAC technicians as projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the median yearly pay, which is $50,590 or $24.32 per hour. If you’re a hands-on kind of person and want to make others happy and comfortable, a career as an HVAC technician might be a great option. Preparation for this industry where the job prospects and the salary is great is easy peasy. HVAC programs are offered at many schools throughout San Diego and can be completed in less than one year. They lead to a certificate of achievement, diploma, or an associate degree depending on your availability and budget.
San Diego College of Continuing Education
The Air Conditioning and Heating classes at the San Diego College of Continuing Education prepare students for entry-level employment in the HVAC industry. The training provides foundational studies for students to acquire a working knowledge of the tools and equipment used in the industry. Core topics include diagnostic techniques, use of testing equipment, principles of mechanics, electricity, and electronics as they relate to the repair of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. The program will include additional topics such as communication, interpersonal skills, problem solving, and technology in the workplace to prepare students for the world of work. The program is open entry/open exit.
Program overview:
Air Conditioning/Heating
Duration: 18 weeks
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must be a resident of California
- Applicants under 18 years of age must submit a completed waiver form and obtain the permission of the Vice President of Student Services
- Submit a completed application online
- Attend a mandatory orientation
- Pay the class fees via online registration
- Must attend a mandatory orientation before enrollment
- Provide a valid photo ID and social security card
Program cost:
The training is free. The cost for supplies must be covered by the student.
Website: https://sdcce.edu/
Address: 4343 Ocean View Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92113-1915
Phone: 619-388-4956
PHCC Academy of San Diego
The PHCC Academy of San Diego facilitates an entry-level HVAC Service Tech Certificate Program for persons with no or minimal experience in the industry. The comprehensive curriculum provides students with a solid foundation and understanding of the latest tools, equipment, and technology used in the industry. Theory and hands-on training will cover HVAC safety, introduction to HVAC, system controls, tools of the trade, heat pumps, air conditioning, gas furnaces/air handlers, brazing, low and high voltage, customer service, and troubleshooting scenarios. Graduates will have the confidence to conduct residential and light commercial maintenances and basic troubleshooting. They will also be prepared to take and earn the EPA 608 Exam. Enrollment opens in July of each year and classes begin in September. Classes meet Mondays from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm plus another online 2-hour class each week.
Program overview:
HVAC Service Tech Certificate
Duration: 7 months
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Submit an application during the enrollment period
- Take and pass the enrollment exam
- Must commit to attending all classroom hours
- Provide a valid photo ID and social security card
Program cost:
Tuition costs $2,995 for open enrollment or $2,195 for PHCC Contractor members. An entrance exam fee is required and costs $50.
Website: https://phccsd.org/
Address: 9920 Scripps Lake Drive, Suite #102, San Diego, CA 92131
Phone: (858) 693-3855
Fax: (858) 693-3852
Email: admin@phccsd.org
San Diego City College
The Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Environmental Control Technology (AIRE) Program at San Diego City College provides a comprehensive study of Heating – Ventilation – Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC/R) systems. Course topics include residential and commercial refrigeration, industrial freezing systems, new and emerging technologies related to climate-controlled environments, and more. Hands-on training will prepare students to maintain and troubleshoot complex heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Instructors will place emphasis on energy efficiency, sustainability, and the integration of conventional systems with alternative energy and Green Technology. Some courses may be combined with specific general education courses to lead to an Associate in Science degree required for advanced positions or for placement in a baccalaureate program in engineering or air conditioning and refrigeration technology program.
Program overview:
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Environmental Control Technology (AIRE)
Semester units: 87 – Certificate of Achievement
Duration: 7 months
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Submit an application for admission to SDCC
- Take and pass an admission exam
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Provide an official transcript of high school or college courses completed
- Provide a valid photo ID and social security card
Program cost:
Tuition costs $46 per unit for California residents. Additional expenses include books, supplies, uniforms, and national exams.
Website: https://www.sdcity.edu/
Address: 1313 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101-4787
Phone: 619-388-3400
Summit College
The HVAC program at Summit College prepares students for entry-level employment in the HVAC industry. Experienced instructors will share their experiences in the classroom and provide hands-on instruction as students learn by using simulated HVAC equipment. Course topics include HVAC brazing and cutting, HVAC systems design, commercial refrigeration, electrical systems and components, soldering and welding, refrigerants and refrigeration, principles of heat, energy and pressure, residential and commercial HVAC systems, and green job training. The curriculum covers a total of 720 clock hours and 54 credit hours. Students will be eligible for EPA 608 Universal Certification before graduation and the initial NATE (North American Technician Excellence) certification after graduation. Convenient day and evening classes are available.
Program overview:
HVAC Certificate
Semester credits: 54
Clock hours: 720
Duration: 36 weeks
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Submit an application for admission to Summit College
- Pay the registration fee
- Must have a high school diploma or GED – options are available for applicants with no high school diploma
- Provide a valid photo ID and social security card
Program cost:
The total program cost of $17,495 includes the registration fee, insurance, textbooks, uniform, equipment, and STRF.
Website: https://summitcollege.edu/
Address: 1639 E. Edinger Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705
Phone: (855) 970-4151
University of California – San Diego
The HVAC Systems Design and Control program at UC- San Diego covers the latest technology in the design, calculation, and practical applications of Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and Direct Digital Control (DDC) systems. Through classroom and online delivery of content, instructors will cover HVAC systems and components, advantages and disadvantages, and relative energy consumption. Other areas for emphasis include the merit of energy analysis and methods of savings through innovation in HVAC design green buildings. Students will learn the fundamentals as well as practical applications and real-life examples. Applicants should have an interest in HVAC systems and technology and be familiar with computers.
Program overview:
HVAC Systems Design and Control
Semester credits: N/A
Duration: 18 months
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Submit an application for admission to UC
- Pay the application
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Provide a valid photo ID and social security card
Program cost:
The estimated program cost of $3,370 does not include expenses for textbooks.
Address: 6256 Greenwich Drive, San Diego, CA 92122
Phone: (858) 534-3400
Fax: (858) 246-1031
ATA College
ATA College prepares HVAC technician students to fill entry-level positions as Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic and/or Installer. The lectures and hands-on technical skills on-campus are followed by a five-week practical externship at local employers. Course topics include trades skills core concepts, electronics and control circuit troubleshooting, air distribution, venting, maintenance and air conditioning, maintenance and troubleshooting, heat pumps and handling refrigerants, refrigeration, codes and licenses, energy, water treatment, and building management, hydronic, airside, and balancing systems, externship for HVAC technicians, and HVAC certification preparation. Graduates will be eligible for EPA 608 Universal Certification.
Program overview:
HVAC Technician
Semester credits: 45.09
Duration: 40 weeks
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Submit an application in person
- Complete the pre-evaluation questionnaire or Tuition Assistance Form
- Consult with an Admissions Representative
- Take and pass the admissions test with a score of 14 or more
- Attend an orientation
Program cost:
The estimated program cost of $18,309 includes registration fee, STRF, and tuition.
Website: https://atacollege.edu/
Address: 1810 Gillespie Way, Ste 104, El Cajon, CA 92020
Phone: 619-596-2766
UEI College
The HVAC training program at UEI College is delivered in hybrid/online format. Theory and hands-on lab simulations prepare students for entry-level employment in the field. Students will learn how to install, repair, and maintain HVAC systems. They will also learn basic design and troubleshooting. Course topics include basic electricity, motors, and HVAC controls, basic refrigeration theory and application, air conditioning, troubleshooting and heat pump systems, heating systems, duct design, blueprint reading and load calculation, commercial refrigeration systems, specialized commercial equipment and green awareness, regulation and building automation, and electrical and mechanical troubleshooting. Training will also include preparation for two major certifications for HVAC professionals – EPA Section 608 Certification for Stationary Air Conditioning and Refrigeration and (2) Universal R-410A Safety Training & Certification. Job placement assistance is available for all UEI graduates.
Program overview:
HVAC Technician
Clock hours: 720
Duration: 10 months
Prerequisites:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Submit an application to UEI College before applying to the program
- Meet with an Admissions Representative
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Attend a program orientation
- Must have a passion for the industry
Program cost:
The total program cost of $19,900 includes tuition, books, supplies, and uniforms.
Website: https://www.uei.edu/
Address: 1261 3rd Ave a, Chula Vista, CA
Phone: (877) 463-4472