AC Mechanical Course

Lesson 1 • Core System Components Overview

This module identifies compressors, condensers, evaporators, and expansion devices. It builds component recognition skills essential for all subsequent coursework.

Lesson 2 • Airflow and Psychrometrics

This module introduces humidity, dry-bulb and wet-bulb temperatures, and air properties. It grounds students in psychrometric concepts used throughout system design and diagnosis.

Lesson 3 • Refrigerants and Their Properties

This module examines common refrigerant classifications, safety ratings, and environmental impact. It provides the chemical knowledge needed for safe handling and system selection.

Lesson 4 • Refrigeration Cycle Basics

This module covers the four-stage vapour compression cycle and heat transfer principles. It connects thermodynamic theory to physical AC system operation.

Lesson 1 • Hand Tools and Specialty Tools

This module identifies wrenches, flaring tools, tube cutters, and manifold gauge sets. Correct tool use prevents equipment damage and ensures accurate measurements.

Lesson 2 • Electrical Test Instruments

This module teaches multimeter, clamp meter, and megohmmeter operation for AC diagnostics. Accurate meter use is foundational to all electrical troubleshooting tasks.

Lesson 3 • Personal Protective Equipment

This module covers selection and proper use of gloves, goggles, respirators, and arc-flash gear. It establishes the safety baseline required before any hands-on lab work.

Lesson 4 • Worksite Organization and Housekeeping

This module establishes standards for tool staging, waste disposal, and job-site cleanliness. Organised worksites reduce accidents and improve technician efficiency.

Lesson 1 • Brazing and Soldering Techniques

This module teaches torch setup, flux application, and silver-alloy brazing for refrigerant joints. High-quality brazed joints prevent leaks and ensure long-term system integrity.

Lesson 2 • Refrigerant Line Sizing and Layout

This module applies pressure drop calculations to size suction, liquid, and hot-gas lines. Proper line sizing maintains system efficiency and prevents oil return problems.

Lesson 3 • Compressor Types and Installation

This module compares reciprocating, scroll, rotary, and screw compressors and their mounting requirements. Correct installation prevents vibration damage and premature compressor failure.

Lesson 4 • Valves and Mechanical Controls

This module identifies service valves, solenoid valves, check valves, and filter-driers. Each component's function and installation position affects system performance and serviceability.

Lesson 1 • Leak Detection Techniques

This module introduces electronic detectors, UV dye, nitrogen pressure testing, and bubble solution. Early leak detection prevents refrigerant loss and compressor damage.

Lesson 2 • Refrigerant Regulations and Documentation

This module reviews certification requirements, refrigerant tracking logs, and safe disposal rules. Proper documentation ensures regulatory compliance and liability protection.

Lesson 3 • System Evacuation and Dehydration

This module teaches deep vacuum procedures using micron gauges to remove moisture and non-condensables. Thorough evacuation is critical to long-term system reliability.

Lesson 4 • Refrigerant Recovery Procedures

This module covers push-pull recovery methods, recovery machine operation, and cylinder handling. Proper recovery prevents environmental release and meets regulatory requirements.

Lesson 1 • Reading Wiring Diagrams

This module teaches schematic, ladder, and pictorial diagram interpretation for AC equipment. Diagram literacy is the prerequisite skill for all electrical troubleshooting tasks.

Lesson 2 • Thermostats and Control Boards

This module covers low-voltage thermostat wiring, staging logic, and control board diagnostics. Proper thermostat and board configuration ensures correct system sequencing.

Lesson 3 • Contactors, Relays, and Capacitors

This module covers operation, testing, and replacement of contactors, relays, and run/start capacitors. These components are among the most frequently replaced parts in AC systems.

Lesson 4 • Safety Controls and Safeties

This module identifies high-pressure, low-pressure, freeze, and overload safety devices and their settings. Safety controls protect equipment and occupants from hazardous operating conditions.

Lesson 1 • Site Assessment and Equipment Selection

This module covers load calculation basics, equipment sizing, and site access evaluation. Correct sizing and placement decisions made before installation prevent costly rework.

Lesson 2 • Electrical Rough-In and Connections

This module teaches disconnect sizing, wire gauge selection, and terminal connection torque specs. Correct electrical rough-in ensures safe operation and code-compliant installation.

Lesson 3 • Ductwork Connection and Sealing

This module covers duct connection methods, mastic sealing, and insulation of supply and return plenums. Sealed ductwork prevents energy loss and maintains designed airflow.

Lesson 4 • System Startup and Commissioning

This module walks through pre-startup checks, first-run procedures, and performance verification measurements. Commissioning confirms the system meets design specifications before handoff.

Lesson 1 • Systematic Troubleshooting Methodology

This module introduces symptom-based diagnostic trees and the divide-and-conquer fault isolation strategy. A structured approach reduces diagnostic time and prevents misdiagnosis.

Lesson 2 • Documenting and Verifying Repairs

This module covers repair documentation, post-repair performance testing, and customer sign-off procedures. Verified repairs reduce callbacks and support warranty and liability management.

Lesson 3 • Refrigerant-Side Fault Diagnosis

This module uses manifold gauge readings, superheat, and subcooling values to identify refrigerant faults. Accurate refrigerant-side diagnosis prevents unnecessary component replacement.

Lesson 4 • Electrical Fault Diagnosis

This module applies voltage, resistance, and amperage tests to locate open circuits, shorts, and grounds. Electrical fault diagnosis skills reduce equipment downtime and repair costs.

Lesson 1 • Maintenance Planning and Scheduling

This module covers seasonal maintenance timing, service agreement structures, and maintenance log setup. Planned maintenance reduces emergency calls and supports customer retention.

Lesson 2 • Electrical Component Inspection

This module covers contact inspection, capacitor testing, wire terminal tightening, and control board review. Proactive electrical inspection prevents in-season failures and safety hazards.

Lesson 3 • Filter, Belt, and Lubrication Service

This module covers air filter replacement intervals, belt tension and alignment, and motor bearing lubrication. These routine tasks have the highest impact on airflow and mechanical longevity.

Lesson 4 • Coil Cleaning and Inspection

This module details evaporator and condenser coil cleaning methods, fin straightening, and drain pan treatment. Clean coils restore heat transfer efficiency and prevent biological growth.