HVAC Technician Course Descriptions
Overview:
The Wasatch Trade Tech HVAC Technician program is a 100-clock-hour, online distance-education course that prepares learners for entry-level positions as HVAC apprentices, installer assistants, and service helpers. The curriculum integrates HVAC fundamentals, electrical theory for HVAC/R, refrigeration principles, gas furnace simulations, and the EPA Section 608 certification pathway.
The HVAC Technician program emphasizes hands-on competency through embedded virtual reality simulations and gas furnace troubleshooting labs. Graduates are positioned to sit for the NATE Ready-to-Work, OSHA 10-Hour Construction Industry, and EPA Section 608 Universal credentialing exams. Students are provided a license that allows two attempts for the OSHA and EPA exams and 1 attempt of the Nate Ready to Work Exam.
Learning Path (Total hours: 100 hours)
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• HVAC Systems
• Components of an HVAC System
• How Air Conditioning Works
• Major Heating Components
• Basic Tools
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• Introduction to OSHA
• Fall Hazards
• Avoiding Electrocution Hazards
• Struck-By Hazards
• Caught-In or -Between Hazards
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Health Hazards in Construction
• Excavations
• Materials Handling, Storage, Use, and Disposal
• Scaffolds
• Hand and Power Tools
• Safe Driving Practices
• Emergency Action Plans and Fire Protection
• Cranes
• Welding and Cutting
• Final Assessment
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• NATE Introduction
• Components
• Tool Identification and Selection
• Measurements and Units
• Basic Heat Transfer
• General Safety
• Electrical Safety
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• Compressed Gas Safety
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• Trades Math
• Introduction to Refrigeration
• Temperature
• Pressure
• Heat Transfer
• Evaporators
• Condensers
• Refrigerant Overview
• HVAC Supplies and Aftermarket Parts
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• Atoms & Electrons — Ohm’s Law
• AC & DC Current
• Meters, Circuits, Loads, and Switches
• Symbols and Wiring Diagrams
• Motors and Motor Starting
• Compressor Relays and Capacitors
• Contactors and Motor Starters
• Troubleshooting Motors
• Thermostats and Heating Controls
• Refrigeration Controls and Timers
• Power Distribution, Delta, and Wye Systems
• Electrical Panels, Circuit Breakers, and Disconnects
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• HVAC Maintenance
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• Evacuation and Charging
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• HVAC Troubleshooting
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• EPA 608 Introduction
• EPA 608 Core
• EPA 608 Type 1
• EPA 608 Type 2
• EPA 608 Type 3
• EPA 608 Practice Exam
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• Gas Furnace Sequence of Operations
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• VR LAB · VR Lab: General Troubleshooting
• VR LAB · VR Lab: Dirty Filter
• VR LAB · VR Lab: Faulty Flame Sensor
• VR LAB · VR Lab: Faulty Gas Valve
• VR LAB · VR Lab: Faulty Gas Wire
• VR LAB · VR Lab: Faulty HSI
• VR LAB · VR Lab: Faulty IFC
• VR LAB · VR Lab: Faulty Switch
• VR LAB · VR Lab: Faulty Thermostat
• VR LAB · VR Lab: Loose IFC Wire
• VR LAB · VR Lab: Loose Thermostat Wire
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• Electric Furnace Sequence of Operations
Topics Covered (LMS lessons)
• Refrigeration Cycle Theory & Pressure-Temperature
• Component Identification
• HVAC Electrical
• System Diagnostics, Charging & Recovery
• Airflow & Ductwork
• Combustion Safety & Gas Furnace Basics
• EPA Section 608 Content
• Personal Safety & PPE
Program Learning Outcomes:
- Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Describe the function of major HVAC system components and their role in residential and light-commercial systems.
- Apply electrical fundamentals, including AC/DC, Ohm's Law, and meter use to HVAC circuits
- Identify and explain refrigeration principles, including the refrigeration cycle, heat transfer, and refrigerant behavior
- Perform basic HVAC system diagnostics using a digital multimeter and standard service tools
- Diagnose compressor, capacitor, contactor, and motor faults using systematic troubleshooting procedures.
- Explain heat pump operation, defrost cycles, and applications across climate zones.
- Apply OSHA 10 Construction Industry safety standards to HVAC jobsite tasks.
- Demonstrate evacuation and charging procedures using EPA Section 608 best practices.
- Troubleshoot gas furnace sequence-of-operations faults including thermostat, ignition, and flame-sensor failures
- Demonstrate workplace readiness skills including customer communication, ethical conduct, and jobsite professionalism.
Program Completion Time:
- Accelerated Track: Complete in 5 weeks with a commitment of 20 hours per week.
- Maximum Access: All students have up to 12 months to complete program materials at their own pace.
Admission Requirements:
- Age: Must be at least 18 years old (17-year-olds can start the course but can only finish it once they turn 18).
- Education: High School Diploma or GED
- Residency: Proof of U.S. residency
- Language: English proficiency
- Prerequisites: Payment in full
Completion Requirements:
- Pass all 12 modules in sequence
- Pass the mid-program competency assessment
- Complete all virtual reality lab tasks with passing scores
- Pass the final comprehensive exam (proctored)
- Sit for the NATE Ready-to-Work, OSHA 10 Construction Industry, ATC HVAC Certification, and EPA Section 608 Universal credentialing exams
Student Supports:
- Instructor office hours held weekly via video conference and asynchronous messaging
- Technical support for LMS, VR headset configuration, and proctoring software (response within one business day)
Program Structure:
- Total Program Hours: 100 clock hours
- Format: 100 lecture hours, available 24/7 online
Program Cost:
- Tuition: $3,500
- Registration Fee: $0
- Total Cost: $3,500
What you will earn upon course completion?
- Certificate of completion
- Be prepared to take:
- NATE Ready-to-Work
- OSHA 10
- EPA 608 Universal
- ATC Certification
Completing this course will help you:
- Understand the principles and components of HVAC systems.
- Gain hands-on experience with HVAC tools and equipment.
- Develop problem-solving skills for HVAC system troubleshooting and repair.
- Prepare for certification exams and increase your employability in the HVAC industry.
Who is the course for?
This program is designed for adult learners seeking entry-level competency. Applicants must meet the
following:
- Minimum age 18 years
- U.S. residency and English proficiency for course materials and credentialing exams
- Functional reading and basic math (fractions, decimals, simple algebra)
- Computer literacy and the technology described in Program Policies
- Physical ability to perform basic mechanical tasks (with or without reasonable accommodation)
- No prior HVAC experience required
A Great Return on Your Investment
• Wasatch Trade Tech – 9-12 weeks
• 4-Year University – 5.2 years
• 2-Year College – 3.4 years
• Wasatch Trade Tech – $7,999
• 4-Year University – $103,000
• 2-Year College – $39,000
• Wasatch Trade Tech – $29,000
• 4-Year University – $261,120
• 2-Year College – $141,461
• Wasatch Trade Tech – $46,200
• 4-Year University – $47,000
• 2-Year College – $38,600
• Wasatch Trade Tech – 7.5 months
• 4-Year University – 4.7 years
• 2-Year College – 3.7 years
| Wasatch Trade Tech | Four-Year University | Two-Year College | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETE |
9-12 weeks |
5.2 Years |
3.4 Years |
|
AVERAGE TUITION AND FEES |
$7,999 |
$103,000 |
$39,000 |
|
EDUCATION COST + LOST INCOME |
$29,000 |
$261,120 |
$141,461 |
|
MEDIAN COMPENSATION (Based on full-time employment) |
$46,200 |
$47,000 |
$38,600 |
|
TIME TO RECOVER INVESTMENT |
7.5 months |
4.7 Years |
3.7 Years |
FAQ
Our online HVAC course stands out by reimagining technical education for the modern learner. Unlike traditional trade schools that lock you into lengthy, expensive courses, we offer a revolutionary approach to professional training:
Rapid Certification Path
- Complete your comprehensive HVAC certification in as little as 12 weeks
- Learn entirely online, from the comfort of your home
- Flexible schedule that works around your current job and life commitments
Unprecedented Affordability
- Cost significantly less than traditional trade schools (often 30-40% lower tuition)
- No hidden fees or additional expenses for commuting or physical materials
- Highest return on educational investment in the technical training market
Comprehensive Curriculum
- Fully interactive online modules covering all critical HVAC technical skills
- Preparation for key industry certifications like NATE, EPA 608, and OSHA
- Real-world problem-solving techniques taught through digital simulations and case studies
Our course isn’t just an education – it’s a fast-track to a professional HVAC career, designed for motivated individuals who want maximum skills with minimum time and financial investment.
Our students have exclusive access to weekly live video sessions with Master HVAC Technician Tiff Singleton, who hosts an interactive Q&A once per week in the evening (Central Time). During these 60-minute sessions, Tiff addresses student questions about course material, technical concepts, and shares valuable industry insights drawn from years of field experience and teaching thousands of HVAC students.
Attendance on these calls is not mandatory but is highly recommended for those students who are in the first few weeks of starting their program.