Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Overview
Program Maps
A.A./A.S. Degrees
Certificates
- Dean Paul Estabrook
- Department Chair Richard Gentry
- Phone (916) 558-2250
- Email gentryr@scc.losrios.edu
Associate Degree
A.S. in Mechanical-Electrical Technology
MET Program Information
The Mechanical-Electrical Technology (MET) program provides instruction in design, installation, operation, repair, and maintenance of a wide range of mechanical and electrical equipment from small residential equipment to large commercial and industrial facilities. The entire spectrum of mechanical and electrical systems is covered including energy management, mechanical system commissioning, indoor air quality, building automation systems, refrigerant recovery and management, electrical controls, pneumatic controls, electronic controls, instrumentation, and heat pumps. These systems include heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and refrigerating (HVAC/R).
Students will learn the theory and fundamentals of mechanical equipment and be exposed to hands-on training in sophisticated training laboratories. Laboratory equipment that students will work with include a water cooled chiller, cooling towers, steam and hot water boilers, thermal energy storage system, heat reclaim system, power management system, packaged and split system air conditioners, furnaces, and high, medium, and low temperature refrigeration systems. Students will also configure, program, and commission several Direct Digital Control (DDC) Systems, pneumatic systems, variable frequency drive (VFD), and programmable logic controllers (PLC), and work directly on the operating systems in the laboratory facility.
The program includes both day and evening lecture and laboratory class sections. Classes are conducted as both lecture and laboratory. Effective writing, verbal communication, electronic communication, sketching, drafting, mechanical calculations, and computer skills are emphasized across the curriculum.
Recommended High School Preparation
Completion of college preparatory English and general mathematics courses is highly desirable but not required. Courses in drafting, algebra, and computer fundamentals will be beneficial.
Program Costs
In addition to normal student expenses such as tuition and textbooks, MET students must purchase safety glasses for use in laboratory and shop classes. If this fee creates a financial burden, students should consult the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance.
Catalog Date: January 1, 2025
Degree Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MET 256 | Fundamentals of Instruments and Electricity | 1.5 |
| MET 257 | Fundamentals of Workplace Success | 1.5 |
| MET 350 | Cal/OSHA 10 General Safety | 1 |
| MET 351 | Basic Mechanical Systems | 5 |
| MET 352 | Mechanical Systems Calculations | 2 |
| MET 357 | Drawing Mechanical Systems | 1 |
| MET 360 | Mechanical Systems Maintenance | 1.5 |
| MET 361 | Refrigeration Systems | 3 |
| MET 362 | Refrigeration Systems Calculations | 3 |
| MET 363 | Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Processes and Procedures | 1.5 |
| MET 364 | Electrical Controls | 3 |
| MET 371 | Gas-Fired Heating Equipment | 3 |
| MET 372 | Power Machinery, Heating and Air Conditioning Calculations | 3 |
| MET 373 | Piping and Electrical Drafting and Blueprint Reading | 3 |
| MET 374 | Automatic Control Systems I | 3 |
| MET 381 | Air Conditioning | 3 |
| MET 383 | Instrumentation | 3 |
| MET 384 | Automatic Control Systems II | 3 |
| MET 388 | Heat Pump Operation and Load Calculations | 3 |
| Total Units: | 48 |
The Mechanical-Electrical Technology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus the local SCC General Education Requirement, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- apply problem-solving and analytical thinking skills in the maintenance, operation, testing, troubleshooting, and repair of heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems, accessories, and controls.
- utilize tools and equipment in the maintenance, operation, testing, troubleshooting, and repair of heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems, accessories, and controls.
- demonstrate an understanding of the requirements of the Federal Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Certification license examination.
- recognize the importance of proper handling of refrigerants and the environmental impact of improper refrigerant management.
- operate and troubleshoot both a water boiler and low pressure steam boiler system, pumping and piping systems, and related heating equipment.
- design a heating-cooling system for a residential and commercial application from concept to finish.
- explain the operation of chilled water systems, air distribution, variable air volume systems, thermal storage, cooling towers, and energy management.
- explain the concepts related to absorption air conditioning systems, helical-rotary, and centrifugal water chillers.
- demonstrate an understanding of electrical circuits and controls.
- design an electrical control schematic and troubleshoot various electrical equipment.
- utilize freehand sketching and drafting skills for use in field applications.
- demonstrate an understanding of the different types, applications, and proper use of instruments to measure and record temperature, humidity, flow, light, sound, velocity, pressure, combustion emissions, air quality, voltage, level, force, and vibration.
- analyze complex systems of the automatic controls industries.
- design and program Variable Frequency Drives, Programmable Logic Control systems, Direct Digital Control systems, and Pneumatic Control systems.
- explain the theory and demonstrate practical skill sets required of an entry level Building Automation Systems Technician.
- analyze manufacturer’s data of equipment performance and economic factors related to heating, cooling, and refrigeration equipment, and estimate the cost of a refrigeration system installation including materials, labor, and profit.
- solve problems involving heat transfer, heating and cooling loads, air distribution, and psychrometrics of air.
- evaluate and determine the need for periodic equipment maintenance and demonstrate an understanding of a maintenance contract.
Career Information
Upon completion of the MET program, students may find employment in the following industry sectors: government (federal, state, county, and city agencies), health care, commercial air conditioning and refrigeration service/repair, utilities, construction, facilities management, engineering, high technology, food production, and manufacturing. Typical job titles include: stationary engineer, air conditioning and refrigeration technician, maintenance mechanic, boiler operator, automatic control technician, wholesale and manufacturer’s sales representative.
Certificates of Achievement
Mechanical Systems Technician Certificate
The Mechanical Systems Technician Certificate of Achievement provides entry level instruction in design, installation, repair, and maintenance of a wide range of mechanical and electrical equipment from small residential equipment to light commercial buildings. The entry level skills covered included fundamental mechanical and electrical systems including indoor air quality, refrigerant recovery and management, electrical controls, and heat pumps.
Students will learn the theory and fundamentals of mechanical equipment and be exposed to hands-on training in sophisticated training laboratories. Laboratory equipment that students will work with includes high, medium, and low temperature refrigeration systems and electrical systems.
The program includes both day and evening lecture and laboratory class sections. Classes are conducted as both lecture and laboratory. Effective writing, verbal communication, electronic communication, mechanical calculations, and computer skills are emphasized across the curriculum.
Recommended High School Preparation
Completion of college preparatory English and general mathematics courses is highly desirable but not required. Courses in drafting, algebra, and computer fundamentals will be beneficial.
Program Costs
In addition to normal student expenses such as tuition and textbooks, MET students must purchase safety glasses for use in laboratory and shop classes. If this fee creates a financial burden, students should consult the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance.
Catalog Date: January 1, 2025
Certificate Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MET 256 | Fundamentals of Instruments and Electricity | 1.5 |
| MET 257 | Fundamentals of Workplace Success | 1.5 |
| MET 350 | Cal/OSHA 10 General Safety | 1 |
| MET 351 | Basic Mechanical Systems | 5 |
| MET 352 | Mechanical Systems Calculations | 2 |
| MET 357 | Drawing Mechanical Systems | 1 |
| MET 360 | Mechanical Systems Maintenance | 1.5 |
| MET 361 | Refrigeration Systems | 3 |
| MET 362 | Refrigeration Systems Calculations | 3 |
| MET 363 | Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Processes and Procedures | 1.5 |
| MET 364 | Electrical Controls | 3 |
| Total Units: | 24 |
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- evaluate and determine the need for periodic equipment maintenance, and demonstrate an understanding of a maintenance contract.
- apply problem-solving and analytical thinking skills in the maintenance, operation, testing, troubleshooting and repair of heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems, accessories, and controls.
- utilize tools and equipment in the maintenance, operation, testing, troubleshooting and repair of heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems, accessories, and controls.
- demonstrate an understanding of the industry required Federal Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Certification license examination.
- recognize and demonstrate the importance of proper handling of refrigerants and the environmental impact of improper refrigerant management.
- explain the basic concepts of electrical circuits and control theory.
- design an electrical control schematic and troubleshoot various electrical equipment.
- utilize freehand sketching and drafting skills for field applications.
- analyze manufacturer’s data of equipment performance and economic factors related to heating, cooling, and refrigeration equipment.
- solve problems involving heating-cooling loads, heat transfer, air distribution, and psychrometrics of air.
Career Information
Upon completion of the Mechanical Systems Technician Certificate of Achievement, students will be qualified for employment in the following industry sectors: government (federal, state, county, and city agencies), health care, utilities, construction, engineering, high technology, food production, and manufacturing. Typical jobs titles include: utility engineer, maintenance mechanic, air conditioning and refrigeration technician, and wholesale and manufacturer’s sales representative.
Mechanical-Electrical Technology Certificate
MET Program Information
The Mechanical-Electrical Technology (MET) program provides instruction in design, installation, operation, repair, and maintenance of a wide range of mechanical and electrical equipment from small residential equipment to large commercial and industrial facilities. The entire spectrum of mechanical and electrical systems is covered including energy management, mechanical system commissioning, indoor air quality, building automation systems, refrigerant recovery and management, electrical controls, pneumatic controls, electronic controls, instrumentation, and heat pumps. These systems include heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and refrigerating (HVAC/R).
Students will learn the theory and fundamentals of mechanical equipment and be exposed to hands-on training in sophisticated training laboratories. Laboratory equipment that students will work with include a water cooled chiller, cooling towers, steam and hot water boilers, thermal energy storage system, heat reclaim system, power management system, packaged and split system air conditioners, furnaces, and high, medium, and low temperature refrigeration systems. Students will also configure, program, and commission several Direct Digital Control (DDC) Systems, pneumatic systems, variable frequency drive (VFD), and programmable logic controllers (PLC), and work directly on the operating systems in the laboratory facility.
The program includes both day and evening lecture and laboratory class sections. Classes are conducted as both lecture and laboratory. Effective writing, verbal communication, electronic communication, sketching, drafting, mechanical calculations, and computer skills are emphasized across the curriculum.
Recommended High School Preparation
Completion of college preparatory English and general mathematics courses is highly desirable but not required. Courses in drafting, algebra, and computer fundamentals will be beneficial.
Program Costs
In addition to normal student expenses such as tuition and textbooks, MET students must purchase safety glasses for use in laboratory and shop classes. If this fee creates a financial burden, students should consult the Financial Aid Office for possible assistance.
Catalog Date: January 1, 2025
Certificate Requirements
| Course Code | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| MET 256 | Fundamentals of Instruments and Electricity | 1.5 |
| MET 257 | Fundamentals of Workplace Success | 1.5 |
| MET 350 | Cal/OSHA 10 General Safety | 1 |
| MET 351 | Basic Mechanical Systems | 5 |
| MET 352 | Mechanical Systems Calculations | 2 |
| MET 357 | Drawing Mechanical Systems | 1 |
| MET 360 | Mechanical Systems Maintenance | 1.5 |
| MET 361 | Refrigeration Systems | 3 |
| MET 362 | Refrigeration Systems Calculations | 3 |
| MET 363 | Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Processes and Procedures | 1.5 |
| MET 364 | Electrical Controls | 3 |
| MET 371 | Gas-Fired Heating Equipment | 3 |
| MET 372 | Power Machinery, Heating and Air Conditioning Calculations | 3 |
| MET 373 | Piping and Electrical Drafting and Blueprint Reading | 3 |
| MET 374 | Automatic Control Systems I | 3 |
| MET 381 | Air Conditioning | 3 |
| MET 383 | Instrumentation | 3 |
| MET 384 | Automatic Control Systems II | 3 |
| MET 388 | Heat Pump Operation and Load Calculations | 3 |
| Total Units: | 48 |
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:
- apply problem-solving and analytical thinking skills in the maintenance, operation, testing, troubleshooting, and repair of heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems, accessories, and controls.
- utilize tools and equipment in the maintenance, operation, testing, troubleshooting, and repair of heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems, accessories, and controls.
- demonstrate an understanding of the requirements of the Federal Refrigerant Transition and Recovery Certification license examination.
- recognize the importance of proper handling of refrigerants and the environmental impact of improper refrigerant management.
- operate and troubleshoot both a water boiler and low pressure steam boiler system, pumping and piping systems, and related heating equipment.
- design a heating-cooling system for a residential and commercial application from concept to finish.
- explain the operation of chilled water systems, air distribution, variable air volume systems, thermal storage, cooling towers, and energy management.
- explain the concepts related to absorption air conditioning systems, helical-rotary, and centrifugal water chillers.
- demonstrate an understanding of electrical circuits and controls.
- design an electrical control schematic and troubleshoot various electrical equipment.
- utilize freehand sketching and drafting skills for use in field applications.
- demonstrate an understanding of the different types, applications, and proper use of instruments to measure and record temperature, humidity, flow, light, sound, velocity, pressure, combustion emissions, air quality, voltage, level, force, and vibration.
- analyze complex systems of the automatic controls industries.
- design and program Variable Frequency Drives, Programmable Logic Control systems, Direct Digital Control systems, and Pneumatic Control systems.
- explain the theory and demonstrate practical skill sets required of an entry level Building Automation Systems Technician.
- analyze manufacturer’s data of equipment performance and economic factors related to heating, cooling, and refrigeration equipment, and estimate the cost of a refrigeration system installation including materials, labor, and profit.
- solve problems involving heat transfer, heating and cooling loads, air distribution, and psychrometrics of air.
- evaluate and determine the need for periodic equipment maintenance and demonstrate an understanding of a maintenance contract.
Career Information
Upon completion of the MET program, students may find employment in the following industry sectors: government (federal, state, county, and city agencies), health care, commercial air conditioning and refrigeration service/repair, utilities, construction, facilities management, engineering, high technology, food production, and manufacturing. Typical job titles include: stationary engineer, air conditioning and refrigeration technician, maintenance mechanic, boiler operator, automatic control technician, wholesale and manufacturer’s sales representative.
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Courses
HVAC 299 Experimental Offering in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This is the experimental courses description.
HVAC 499 Experimental Offering in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:January 1, 2025
This is the experimental courses description.