vcc.ca
RACM 2001: Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Apprenticeship Level 2
Effective date
January 2027
Department
Refrigeration & Air Cond Appr
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This Level 2 course advances the skills of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics, focusing on system diagnosis, installation, and service. Students apply electrical principles, motor control theory, and wiring practices to HVAC/R systems while analyzing heat pump performance and food storage theory. The curriculum also covers gas utilization, including combustion safety and piping installation. Learners will practice planning installations and maintaining systems to ensure compliance with codes and industry standards. This course has been developed to comply with the SkilledTradesBC Program Outline for Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Apprenticeship Level Two.
Credits
12.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
Active STBC Apprentice Identification Number.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Utilize diagnostic tools, measuring equipment, and digital technology to interpret drawings, specifications, and codes, while organizing work records and selecting appropriate refrigerants and components.
- Apply principles of electricity, electronics, and motor control theory to interpret wiring diagrams, select control systems, and execute proper wiring practices for HVAC/R applications.
- Analyze the operation and performance of heat pumps, air conditioning units, and refrigeration systems, including the application of food storage theory.
- Perform work site preparation and planning to install refrigeration, air conditioning, and control systems, ensuring compliance with system requirements.
- Apply combustion, draft, and mechanical safety theories to the installation of gas piping, tubing systems, and gas-fired appliances.
- Perform maintenance and service on refrigeration, air conditioning, and control systems to ensure proper functionality and longevity.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 160
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 15
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 35
Total Hours: 210
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 15
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 35
Total Hours: 210
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, simulations, problem solving, practical activities and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Participation |
10 |
|
|
Assignments |
30 |
|
|
Quizzes/Tests |
30 |
|
|
Final Exam |
30 |
|
Course topics
- Tools and Equipment Usage
- Performing Routine Trade Activities
- Applying Electrical Concepts
- Refrigeration and AC Theory
- Planning System Installations
- Installing HVAC/R Systems
- Gas Theory and Installation
- Servicing HVAC/R Systems
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.