vcc.ca
RACM 3001: Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Apprenticeship Level 3
Effective date
January 2027
Department
Refrigeration & Air Cond Appr
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This Level 3 course advances the skills of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics, focusing on complex electrical, mechanical, and gas-fired systems. Students will apply electrical principles and control theory to analyze and select components for HVAC/R applications. Training covers the installation, commissioning, and servicing of refrigeration, air conditioning, and gas-fired appliances, including burners and venting systems. Emphasis is placed on utilizing digital technology, adhering to codes, and planning installations for efficient system performance. This course has been developed to comply with the SkilledTradesBC Program Outline for Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Apprenticeship Level Three.
Credits
17.0
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:
- Interpret codes, regulations, and standards to plan installations and organize work, utilizing digital technology and appropriate documentation practices to ensure compliance and efficiency.
- Apply principles of electricity and electronics to analyze wiring diagrams, motor control theory, and control systems, including the selection of appropriate components for HVAC/R applications.
- Analyze the operational theory and mechanics of complex systems, including heat pumps, air conditioning, refrigeration, hydronic systems, and alternate fuel technologies.
- Install refrigeration, air conditioning, and gas-fired systems, including the assembly of burners, regulators, valve trains, venting systems, and ancillary equipment according to manufacturer and code specifications.
- Perform commissioning procedures for HVAC/R and control systems to verify system performance, safety, and operational efficiency prior to handover.
- Diagnose, service, and repair refrigeration, air conditioning, and gas-fired appliances, including the maintenance of gas distribution systems, burners, and associated control components.
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: 235
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 15
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 50
Total Hours: 300
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 15
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 50
Total Hours: 300
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, Codes, and Records
- Electrical Principles and Controls
- HVAC/R System Theory
- HVAC/R Planning and Installation
- Gas Theory and Installation
- Commissioning Mechanical Systems
- Servicing HVAC/R Systems
- Servicing Gas-Fired Appliances
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.