Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC-R) Program
Train for a hands-on career in HVAC and refrigeration systems with SJVC’s HVAC-R program. Learn to install, maintain, and troubleshoot heating and cooling systems used in residential and commercial settings.
Why Choose SJVC for HVAC-R Training
San Joaquin Valley College’s Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) program is designed to help students build practical skills used in working as a heating, ventilation, air conditioning technician (HVAC) or heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration technician (HVAC-R). As one of SJVC’s Trades and Industrial Programs, this training emphasizes real‑world applications, giving students opportunities to work directly with the tools, equipment, and system components used in residential and commercial environments.
Students learn in a structured, supportive setting that stresses safety, professional standards, and technical competence. Coursework supports skill development in installation, maintenance, diagnostics, and repair of HVAC‑R systems. With a focus on applied learning, this program provides a pathway for those exploring HVAC and refrigeration schools in the climate control and mechanical systems field.
REAL-WORLD SKILLS
START YOUR PATH
FLEXIBLE LEARNING OPTIONS
AFFORDABLE TUITION
Program Details
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
SJVC’s HVAC‑R training covers the technical knowledge and hands-on practices used by professionals working with heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems in residential and light commercial settings. Training is designed to reflect real-world applications and industry practices similar to those offered by refrigeration trade schools.
Students gain experience in areas such as:
- Heating, cooling, and refrigeration system principles
- Electrical theory and HVAC-R system controls
- Troubleshooting and diagnostic techniques for mechanical and electrical issues
- Installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC-R equipment
- Air distribution systems and airflow measurement
- Safe handling of tools, equipment, and refrigerants
Through classroom instruction and practical training, students learn to follow proper procedures for installing, operating, maintaining, and servicing HVAC‑R systems while adhering to applicable safety and environmental guidelines.
Application Process
Military Policy
COST & FINANCIAL AID
Education is the most important investment you can make in your future. There is a financial plan available for everyone, including a broad range of financial assistance options. Visit SJVC’s Net Price Calculator to get personalized information on college costs and financial aid. Check out SJVC’s Academic Catalog to learn about program costs by campus and credential level. You also can talk to an Admissions Advisor to discuss the costs of your chosen program and schedule an appointment with an experienced financial aid officer. Student loans, grants, and scholarships are available to those who qualify.
PROGRAM AVAILABILITY
SJVC offers heating and air conditioning training through our Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration program at the following campuses:
ACCREDITATION & APPROVALS
Institutional Accreditation
San Joaquin Valley College is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), 1080 Marina Village Parkway, Suite 500, Alameda, CA 94501, Phone: 510-748-9001, Fax: 510-748-9797.
The WSCUC is an institutional accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education.
State Approvals
CALIFORNIA
SJVC is a private institution and is approved to operate as an accredited institution by the California Bureau of Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). Approval to operate means that SJVC has been found in compliance with the standards set forth in the California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009 (as amended) and Title 5, Division 7.5, – Private Postsecondary Education of the California Code of Regulations. As a prospective student, you are encouraged to review this catalog prior to signing an enrollment agreement. You are also encouraged to review the School Performance Fact Sheet, which must be provided to you prior to signing an enrollment agreement.
A student or any member of the public may file a complaint about this institution with the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education by calling (888) 370-7589 or by completing a complaint form, which can be obtained on the Bureau’s internet website (www.bppe.ca.gov).
View additional State Approvals for SJVC.
CONTINUING EDUCATION FOR GRADUATES
SJVC’s Trades Studies Associate of Science degree is designed for trades professionals who want to advance their career and who have earned a certificate of completion in Electrical Technology; Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration; or Maintenance Technician from an institution of higher learning accredited by an agency that is recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Trades Studies Associate of Science degree affords excellent opportunities for professional growth and development through instruction in general education coursework designed to produce the competencies of higher education that employers expect of college graduates. SJVC’s Trades Studies Associate of Science program may be completed in 25 weeks.
What Will I Learn?
Find your path in HVAC-R
Discover What It’s Like to Train at SJVC to Become an HVAC-R Technician
Career Opportunities
Typically, HVAC-R technicians work 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. (1)
A heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration technician may be responsible for diagnosing issues, maintaining systems, and repairing equipment across a range of environments.
Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers’ job duties typically include: (1)
- Cleaning and maintaining HVAC-R systems
- Discussing system malfunctions with customers
- Inspecting and testing HVAC-R systems and components
- Installing electrical components and wiring
- Keeping records of work performed
- Recommending maintenance to improve system performance
- Repairing or replacing worn or defective parts
To learn more about career paths, responsibilities, and what to expect in the field, explore our HVAC Technician Career Guide.
HVAC-R Program Highlights
- Electrical Concepts
- HVAC-R Theories
- Safety Practices
- Proper Procedure & Tool Usage
Successful Grads
Ask one of our 88,000+ graduates about their SJVC experience and they’ll likely describe it as life-changing.
Industry Credentials & Standards
If you’re researching heating, ventilation, and air conditioning certification, or how to get a refrigeration license, you may want to look into what a structured program can offer. The SJVC HVAC-R program is designed to reflect industry practices and standards commonly associated with HVAC and refrigeration work, preparing students to work in the heating and cooling industry.
Training includes preparation in areas related to environmental regulations, system safety, and proper handling of refrigerants, as required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under Section 608. (2)
Depending on the program location, graduates may earn either a Certificate of Completion or an Associate of Science degree in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration. The program also includes preparation for the EPA Section 608 technician certification, which is required for professionals who handle certain refrigerants in HVAC-R systems. (2)
Students also have opportunities to pursue credentials, such as the OSHA 10‑Hour Construction certification.
HVAC-R Program FAQs
Want to Learn More?
Request Information
All fields using an asterik (*) are required.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024). “Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers.”
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/heating-air-conditioning-and-refrigeration-mechanics-and-installers.htm - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “Section 608 Technician Certification Requirements.”
https://www.epa.gov/section608 - San Joaquin Valley College. “College Catalog & Program Information (2025–2026).”https://www.sjvc.edu/admissions/catalog/