vcc.ca
HPAS 2230: Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning
Effective date
January 2026
Department
Auto Serv Tech Diploma Intl
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This course covers the basics of heating and air conditioning systems in vehicles. Students will learn to identify key components, how these systems work, and common issues. Through hands-on inspections and tests, they will diagnose problems related to air flow and heating systems. Students will also gain practical skills in safely inspecting, testing, and repairing air conditioning refrigerant systems, including recovery and recharge techniques.
Credits
1.5
Year of study
2nd Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
HPAS 1000.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe the components, operation, and common faults of air flow control and heating systems, including actuators, sensors, doors, linkage, wiring, and computer controls.
- Describe air flow and heating system issues through sensory, mechanical, and electrical inspections, as well as functional tests and code analysis.
- Describe the principles of operation and components of air conditioning refrigerant systems.
- Perform safety procedures to service air conditioning refrigerant systems.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 15
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 22.5
Total Hours: 37.5
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 22.5
Total Hours: 37.5
Instructional Strategies
Classroom activities are lectures, demonstrations, audio-visual presentations and exercises. Practical experience takes place in an active shop setting. The extensive workshop experience provides reinforcement of theoretical concepts, develops hand skills, and familiarity with repair procedures, electronic equipment and standard safety procedures. All modules are designed to enable the student to work independently and in groups.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
70%
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
15 |
Assignments related to Heating and Air Conditioning. |
|
Quizzes/Tests |
15 |
|
|
Final Exam |
30 |
Students are given final exam at the end of the course to assess their theoretical knowledge. |
|
Lab Work |
30 |
Practical knowledge and skills are evaluated in the shop while students are working on training aids and customer vehicles. |
|
Participation |
10 |
Demonstrated engagement with course activities and discussions. |
Course topics
- Heating systems
- Air conditioning
Learning resources
Automotive Technology: Principles, Diagnosis, and Service (Published by Pearson)
Moodle (LMS)
Moodle (LMS)
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.