HVAC and Refrigeration Technician School in Grand Junction

18 Month* Hands-On Refrigeration & HVAC Technician Training Program in Colorado Springs and Grand Junction

 

The Refrigeration and HVAC Technician program is designed to give you the confidence and skills you need to succeed in your new career.

At IntelliTec College, you’ll learn how to install, maintain and repair heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration systems. You’ll also build professional customer service skills that will benefit your future success.

How will IntelliTec College prepare me for my Refrigeration & HVAC Career?

Hands-on skills students learn in the classroom and lab settings include:

  • Installation and operation of electrical controls operation
  • Maintenance & repair of residential & commercial heating and air systems
  • Refrigerant recovery and evacuation
  • Operation, maintenance, & repair of commercial refrigeration systems
  • Diagnosis of pressure sensing devices of programmable control systems and the diagnosis of mechanical control systems
  • Troubleshooting of chilled-water systems & water tower systems & pumps
  • Customer service and professional confidence
  • Installation of domestic & commercial water heaters & HVAC systems
  • Combustion analysis and blueprint reading

Next Start Dates

Refrigeration and HVAC Technician

*Program length when completed as designed.

If you’re searching for HVAC schools in Grand Junction or asking how to become a refrigeration technician in Colorado, IntelliTec College is here to help. Many people in the area look for hands-on training that can lead to a stable and rewarding career in the trades, and HVAC is a popular choice.

Our Grand Junction campus serves students from across western Colorado who are ready to build their future. Whether you’re just getting started or already focused on entering the HVAC and refrigeration field, our team is ready to answer your questions and help you take that first step.

Contact Us Get Program Details!

What Does a Refrigeration & HVAC Technician Do?

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers—often referred to as HVAC-R Technicians—work on heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems that control the temperature and air quality in buildings. They may use blueprints or specifications to install or repair HVAC-R systems, inspect and maintain HVAC-R systems, and repair or replace worn and defective parts. Technicians may also connect systems to fuel and water supply lines or install electrical wiring and controls. IntelliTec College R/HVAC Graduates have been hired by plumbing, heating, & air-conditioning contractors. With additional education and training, it may be possible to advance into HVAC Engineering, Project Management, Wholesale Trade and much more!

When Do HVAC-R Technicians Usually Work?

The average HVAC-R Technician works full-time. Evening or weekend shifts may be required, and HVAC-R technicians often work overtime or irregular hours during peak heating and cooling seasons.

Career Opportunities in Refrigeration & HVAC Technology

Refrigeration & HVAC Technicians can find employment in the following settings:
  • Refrigeration Technician
  • HVAC Service Technician
  • HVAC Control Technician
  • HVAC Mechanic or HVAC Installer
  • Heating Equipment Technician
  • Facility Maintenance Technician
  • Environmental Maintenance Technician
  • and more!

Refrigeration & HVAC Technician Salary Potential

IntelliTec College provides career-training programs for entry-level positions. Salaries vary depending on geographic location, economic conditions, and willingness to relocate. Salaries by occupation and specific location can be found on the O*NET website. National figures for labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy are available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can also visit the campus career services department to learn where IntelliTec College graduates work and the beginning salaries in their respective careers.

How Is the Job Outlook?

According to the US Department of Labor, job opportunities for qualified applicants with computer and electronics familiarity and good troubleshooting skills will have the best opportunities as employers continue to have difficulty finding qualified technicians to install, maintain, and repair complex new systems.**

 

(**Source: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/49-9021.00)

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Associate of Occupational Studies Degree

The Refrigeration & HVAC Associate of Occupational Studies Degree program is designed to develop the skills and knowledge for entry-level employment as an HVAC-R Technician in the commercial, residential, or industrial refrigeration and heating industry. Graduates are prepared to sit for Mechanic IV Licensing, EPA Certification, and additional certifications.

Locations:

Program length: 18 Months*

Award: Occupational Associates Degree

Credit hours: 91.5

Hands-on skills students learn in the classroom and lab settings include:

  • Installation and operation of electrical controls operation
  • Maintenance & repair of residential & commercial heating and air systems
  • Refrigerant recovery and evacuation
  • Operation, maintenance, & repair of commercial refrigeration systems
  • Diagnosis of pressure sensing devices of programmable control systems and the diagnosis of mechanical control systems
  • Troubleshooting of chilled-water systems & water tower systems & pumps
  • Customer service and professional confidence Installation of domestic & commercial water heaters & HVAC systems
  • Combustion analysis and blueprint reading

Here’s what will you learn in the Associate of Occupational Studies Degree program:

COM-110 Organizational Communication & Etiquette
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100 (Colorado Springs)

The course examines the role of communication and etiquette in organizations. Concepts like teamwork, ethics and diversity are addressed as they relate to organizational effectiveness. Basic workplace technology, including Microsoft Office, is also covered.

ENG-110 Business English
Prerequisite(s): NA

This course emphasizes principles and techniques for organizing, writing, and revising documents for industry, business, and government. This course includes grammar and writing mechanics. Resume writing and job interview techniques are taught and practiced.

EL-101 Fundamentals of Electricity
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100 (Colorado Springs)

This course is designed to introduce the student to the production, transmission, and safe use of common electricity. OHM’s Law and other pertinent laws of electricity will be discussed and practiced so the student will develop a knowledge and respect for electricity. Students will understand that circuit development and distribution lay the groundwork for understanding electricity. Topics include voltage, amperage, watts, and resistance as well as proper identification, application and measurement.

EL-102 Fundamentals of Electricity II
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100 (Colorado Springs)

This course is intended to further enhance the student’s knowledge of electricity as it pertains to HVAC/R. The student should become familiar with applications of simple parallel and series circuits along with proper wiring practices for controls and devices as they practice in a hands-on lab environment. Safety is a primary concern when working with electricity and is emphasized at every opportunity throughout the course.

AR-201 Basic Automatic Controls
Prerequisite(s): EL-101, EL-102

This course is designed to help develop familiarity and understanding of electrical current flow as it is used in many types of automatic controls and its effect as it interacts with various components of a control circuit. Studies will include the style, type, application and operation of various controls common to the HVAC/R occupational field. The student will also develop a basic understanding of heating and cooling controls as well as troubleshooting controls and control circuits commonly found in commercial and residential heating and cooling applications.

AR-202 Electric Motors & Controls
Prerequisite(s): EL-101, EL-102

Students will gain an understanding of controls to include a familiarity with electrical motors and the related automatic controls. Types of motors and their applications will be explored along with the controls and applications commonly found in the HVAC/R occupational field. Motors are manufactured in many voltages and configurations to fit the HVAC/R equipment. Students will learn proper identification, application and operation as well as the proper maintenance and installation methods.

AR-203 Basic Gas Furnaces & Safety
Prerequisite(s): AR-201, AR-202

This course segment introduces the student to the different styles and types of gas heating appliances most commonly encountered in the residential and light commercial trade areas. Fundamentals of industry standards for the installation, operation, and maintenance of common systems will be covered in detail as well as in-depth industry safety practice programs to include gas detection, carbon monoxide detection and all preventative measures for safe operations.

AR-204 Advanced Gas Furnaces & Codes
Prerequisite(s): AR-201, AR-202

This course provides an in-depth study of the different designs and requirements for proper installation per the International Fuel Gas Code standards and the International Mechanical Code installation requirements. Students will gain an understanding of how installation requirements change as new equipment is made available. Newer types of equipment and methods will be discussed as well as the code issues that surround the installation. Students will learn how to read and comprehend codebooks within this course.

AR-205 Heating Fuels & Combustion Analysis
Prerequisite(s): AR-203, AR-204

This course is intended to educate the student in understanding the cost involved with heating appliances and the environmental impact of fossil fuels. Students will learn about the environment and the impact of our carbon footprint, as well as the Federal regulations that require proper use of fuels and energy efficiency standards are published for use in using gas appliances. Studies of the economic impact, as compared to the use of different fuels, will be discussed. Students will learn that combustion analysis is the study of fuel efficiency as used in today’s modern furnaces.

AR-206 Customer Service for HVAC/R Technicians
Prerequisite(s): NA

This course introduces the importance of good customer service skills that are necessary when working in the HVAC/R field. The student will gain an understanding of the position of “company representative” when doing field service work. Students will learn various methods to assist them in becoming the best employee they can be as well as how to handle customer complaints in an effective manner.

AR-207 Alternative Heating Systems
Prerequisite(s): NA

This course has been designed to introduce other sources used for space heating. The student will gain an understanding of hot water heating and radiant heating as well as solar and geothermal systems. Useful and practical systems, as well as the potential for their uses, are discussed as all manufacturers are looking for cost effective products.

AR-208 Hydronic & Pumps
Prerequisite(s): NA

This alternative heating course focuses on the hydronics and pumps that are being used widely on large single family and apartment complexes today. Students will gain an understanding of how the basic systems, valves, zones and thermostats heat water as well as how modern pumps of all types are used in conjunction with a variety of designs to achieve the desired circulation of the water and heating of rooms. The student will discuss and observe the normal operations and control circuits for wiring and repairs as well as troubleshooting.

AR-209 Refrigeration Theory & EPA Certification
Prerequisite(s): Co-requisite(s): AR-201

This course is designed as the basic introduction to refrigeration. Students will gain an understanding of the physics and practical application of refrigeration theory. Students learn about the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines and their role in overseeing all refrigerant usage. An overview of EPA guidelines is provided to students as well as EPA Certification Exam Study guides and study materials to assist in preparing them to take and pass the EPA Certification Exam.

AR-210 Basic Refrigeration Systems
Prerequisite(s): Co-requisite(s): AR-202

This course is designed to educate students in the basic operation of most commonly found refrigeration systems. Mechanical applications, operations, maintenance and repairs as well as basic controls, motors, fans, and pressures will be studied. Students continue to learn in a hands-on laboratory environment practicing maintenance on Refrigeration trainers to help the students learn basic systems.

AR-215 Advanced Refrigeration I
Prerequisite(s): Co-requisite(s): AR-209 & AR-210

This course is intended to educate the student on the importance of developing proficiency in the maintenance and repair of commercial and domestic refrigeration systems to include components, application, function and diagnosis of the mechanical refrigeration equipment.

AR-216 Advanced Refrigeration II
Prerequisite(s): AR-209 & AR-210

This course continues to develop proficiency in the maintenance and repair of commercial and domestic refrigeration systems. Students continue to gain skills in control systems, components, application, function and diagnosis of the mechanical refrigeration equipment.

AR-217 Residential Air Conditioning
Prerequisite(s): AR-209, AR-210

The student will develop familiarity and a basic proficiency with split system air conditioning to include operating conditions and troubleshooting, identifying controls of air conditioning, and heat pump systems.

AR-218 Commercial A/C Systems
Prerequisite(s): AR-209, AR-210

The student will develop familiarity and a basic proficiency with package air conditioning to include operating conditions and troubleshooting of chilled-water systems, water tower systems and pumps, and variable refrigerant flow and air volume.

AR-219 Commercial Refrigeration
Prerequisite(s): AR-209, AR-210

The student will develop familiarity and a basic proficiency with package air conditioning to include operating conditions and troubleshooting of chilled-water systems, water tower systems and pumps, and variable refrigerant flow and air volume.

AR-220 Commercial Refrigeration II
Prerequisite(s): AR-209, AR-210

Students learn commercial refrigeration practices found in a variety of equipment such as commercial reach-ins, walk-ins, rack refrigeration, and other commercial applications. Proficiency is developed in operations and maintenance.

AR-223 Pneumatics & Controls
Prerequisite(s): AR-209 & AR-210

The student will develop familiarity and a basic understanding of industrial level controllers as they apply to commercial/industrial HVAC systems. Specifically, the student will learn the function and diagnosis of the pressure sensing devices and controls in pneumatics.

AR-224 Advanced Control Systems
Prerequisite(s): AR-201, AR-202

The student will develop familiarity and a basic understanding of industrial level controllers as they apply to commercial/industrial HVAC systems. Specifically, the student will learn the function and diagnosis of pressure sensing devices of programmable control systems and the function and diagnosis of mechanical control systems.

BP-110 Duct Design & Blueprint Reading
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100 (Colorado Springs)

After successful completion of this course, students will be familiar with duct design, air balancing, air pressure testing and blueprint reading for the HVAC industry in most residential and commercial equipment.

BP-210 Performing Load Calculations
Prerequisite(s): BP-110

After successful completion of this course, the students will be able to view and interpret basic mechanical blueprints to perform basic block load calculations as they apply to the HVAC industry. A green awareness component provides environmental knowledge on how we impact the carbon footprint in the HVAC/R industry.

CCR-100 College and Career Readiness
Prerequisite(s): NA

College and Career Readiness is the first six-week course designed to prepare students for Career Training Success. Classes meet 20 hours per week, Monday through Thursday. Class times available are either 9:00am – 2:00pm for day time students and 5:00pm – 10:00pm for night time students.

ACD-150 Advanced Career Development
Prerequisite(s): NA

Advanced Career Development is offered toward the end of your program and is designed to prepare students for Career Success. Classes meet for a total of 15 hours during the scheduled term.

GJ Degree Courses

CCR-100 COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS
Prerequisite(s): NA

This course is designed to prepare students for Career Training Success. It will introduce skills to prepare students for personal growth and success in their career. Emphasis will be placed on aiding students in the development of a variety of soft skills necessary for success in their career field and classroom interactions to include Stress Management, Effective Study Skills, Time Management, Leadership Development, Team Building, Financial Literacy, Effective Communication Skills, Diversity and Conflict Resolution, Career Readiness and Overcoming Road Blocks to Success. Students will also participate in activities to help develop the necessary skills to cope with and manage common obstacles that may arise in the workplace. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be ready to begin their educational journey in their chosen program feeling confident and prepared to engage in the classroom and lab setting.

HVC-101: BASIC ELECTRICAL AND HVAC
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

Students learn the basics of electrical circuitry including basic electrical theory, alternating current, and an introduction to the National Electrical Code as well as wiring diagrams. Students are exposed to safety practices as it relates to the HVAC field, and hands-on experience and secure, controlled practice in electrical applications in HVAC/R setting. Students learn basic principles of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Students will complete OSHA-10 basic safety.

HVAC-102: DRAWINGS, BUILDING SPECS, AND DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

In this course students learn to use basic mathematical computations such as area, volume and use measurements as they apply to HVAC/R-related skills for on-the-job. This module teaches how to interpret drawings used in construction, including mechanical drawings, specifications, shop drawings, and as-builts, and explains takeoff procedures for equipment, fittings, ductwork, and other components. Students will also learn how to apply this knowledge and gain an

HVC-103: PIPE, DUCT, AND FLUE SYSTEMS
Prerequisite(s): HVC-101 & HVC-102

This course teaches factors related to air movement and its measurement in common air distribution systems, including the required mechanical equipment and materials used to create air distribution systems. Students learn how to identify, assemble and install various types of tubing, fittings and piping including: copper, plastic, and carbon steel. Students gain experience in the equipment, techniques, and materials used to safely join copper tubing by both soldering and brazing. This module covers chimneys, vents, and flues that are used with fuel-burning furnaces and boilers. The layout, fabrication, installation and insulation of sheet metal, fiberglass, and fabric duct systems and related accessories are also introduced.

HVC-104: REFRIGERATION COMPONENTS AND SYSTEMS
Prerequisite(s): HVC-101 & HVC-102

Students acquire an understanding of the fundamental operating concepts of the refrigeration cycle and how to identify both primary and secondary components found in typical HVAC/R systems. Common refrigerants are introduced as well as principles of heat transfer and essential pressure-temperature relationships of refrigerants. Students will learn about current-practice handling of refrigerants and oils used in modern refrigeration and air conditioning systems as well as the EPA’s requirements for providing service. Preparation and option for the EPA exam. Metering devices and components used in mechanical refrigeration cycle are addressed, as well as retail and commercial/industrial refrigeration systems.

HVC-105: MAINTENANCE AND CONTROLS
Prerequisite(s): HVC-103 & HVC-104

This course includes information on the common tasks associated with basic maintenance such as lubrication and belt installation with detailed coverage on maintenance inspections of gas furnaces and common cooling/heat pump systems. Students will learn information and skills to troubleshoot control circuits and electric motors found in heating and cooling equipment including various air treatment accessories.

HVC-106: GAS AND OIL HEAT
Prerequisite(s): HVC-101 & HVC-102

Students will gain a fundamental understanding of heating systems and the combustion process. The different types and designs of gas furnaces and their components, as well as basic procedures for their installation and service, is provided. Information and skills needed to troubleshoot gas-fired furnaces and boilers, as well as the construction and operation of oil- fired heating systems and their components is provided. Students will learn proper procedures for how to service and test oil furnaces for isolation and correction to oil furnace malfunctions. Customer service fundamentals are included to establish the importance of maintaining positive and professional relations with clients served in the HVAC/R industry.

HVC-107: BOILER, CHILLER & COOLING TOWER SYSTEMS
Prerequisite(s): HVC-101 & HVC-102

Students will learn the basics of hydronic heating systems, the fuels used to heat the water and the pumps that circulate the heated water. This module will review basic properties of water and instruct on how water pressure is related to the movement of water through piping systems. Various types and components of commercial hot-water heating and chilled-water cooling systems as well as their functionality are examined. Students will also learn about the use of steam for storing and moving energy in HVAC systems and how water properties relate to steam and the steam system cycle. Overview of the steam system’s operational components, valves and piping is provided. Students gain the ability to identify problems specific to water that can be encountered in heating and cooling systems and learn specific methods of water treatment and testing procedures. The procedures for the startup and shutdown of hot water, steam heating, chilled water, and air handling systems is covered, as well as that for typical cooling towers and packaged HVAC units.

HVC-108: HEAT PUMPS AND A/C SYSTEMS
Prerequisite(s): HVC-101 & HVC-102

Students receive guidance and instruction related to troubleshooting cooling systems. This module covers the principles relating to operation of heat pump systems in detail with emphasis on electric resistance heating elements as well as the installation considerations of both split and packaged heat pump systems. Additional instruction provided on the procedures for troubleshooting heat pump system components. This module also introduces systems used in commercials structures such as schools and office buildings that must maintain differing comfort zones. Students will learn the various types of systems, as well as the air terminals and air source equipment commonly used; and the information and skills needed to troubleshoot and repair zoned, ductless, and variable refrigerant flow systems.

ACD-150 ADVANCED CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Prerequisite(s): NA

During this course students will learn and develop their skills in various aspects that will contribute to career success. They will learn how to empower themselves for their career through preparation and proper goal setting. Students will learn how to properly develop an effective resume and cover letter, how to appropriately prepare for the interview process, what to expect during an interview, and how to follow-up once the interview is completed. They will specifically focus on developing understanding of the hiring process, the role of social media and networking play, how to search for jobs, what their worth is and what the job market is like. Students will also have the opportunity to perform a mock interview, focusing on how to answer common questions, as well as gain, and develop their professionalism as it relates to the interview process and ultimately their career.

LE-150: LEADERSHIP
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

Upon completion of this course, students will demonstrate an understanding of the importance of leadership as it relates to working for an organization and leading a team. This course has an emphasis on preparing students to focus on their leadership qualities and characteristics in an effort to be a contributing member of their organization.

CT-201: CRITICAL THINKING
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

This introductory level course presents a variety of topics essential to a student’s development in critical thinking. Students are introduced to concepts essential to the comprehension, analysis, and creation of arguments: induction, deduction, informal fallacies, Aristotelian and symbolic logic, modes of persuasion, perspective and bias, language and meaning, culminating in the development of reasonable strategies for belief formation.

BC-210: BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

This course provides the foundations of all types of business communication including letters, memos, electronic communication, written reports, oral presentations, and interpersonal communication. The course also includes topics of resumes, application letters, interviewing tips, and employment follow-up documents.

IB-215 INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

This course provides students with an overview of business in an increasingly global society serving as an introduction to business terminology, concepts, environments, systems, strategies, and current issues. Topics include an overview of the business environment, business ethics, entrepreneurship and global business, management, marketing, production, information systems, and financial elements of business. This course provides a solid business foundation for more detailed and higher-level study in subsequent courses.

AG-255 AMERICAN GOVERNMENT
Prerequisite(s): CCR-100

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of American government and politics focusing on the historical evolution of government and policies, the major institutions, and the major processes.

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Refrigeration & HVAC Technician Industry Certifications

Graduates are prepared to sit for the following certifications:

  • ESCO EPA 608 Certification
  • NCCER OSHA-10 Training
  • NCCER CORE: Introduction to Basic Construction Skills
  • NCCER HVAC Level 1
  • NCCER HVAC Level 2
  • NCCER HVAC Level 3
  • NCCER HVAC Level 4

Is Hands-On Training for a Career as a Refrigeration & HVAC Technician Right for You? Get More Info…

If you’re interested in exploring whether IntelliTec College’s educational training programs for career opportunities in the Refrigeration & HVAC industry are right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information.

A helpful IntelliTec College Admissions Representative will be happy to answer any questions you have and can help with everything from determining the right career path for you to discussing financial aid options.

Accreditation and Education Partners

IntelliTec College Locations

IntelliTec College has 4 accredited campus locations in Colorado Springs, CO, Grand Junction, CO, Pueblo, CO, and Albuquerque, NM. Each of our campuses provides a unique learning experience, helping you become a career-ready professional. Explore your career options today!

Albuquerque Campus

Colorado Springs Campus

Grand Junction Campus

Pueblo Campus

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