Houston heat is no joke. When the AC quits, people want someone who knows what they're doing, and that takes real training.
If you're looking at HVAC school in Houston, this guide walks through what Houston Career Institute's Commercial Refrigeration, Heating & Air Conditioning (HVAC) program covers and what to ask before you sign up.
What is HVAC, and what does refrigeration have to do with it?
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Commercial refrigeration is the cold side: the walk ins, display cases, and ice machines you see at grocery stores and restaurants.
HCI's program covers both home and commercial systems, so you build skills on heating, cooling, and refrigeration.
What you learn in HCI's HVAC program
The program is built around seven courses:
- Basic Electricity Theory. Electrical terms, power sources, circuits, reading electrical diagrams, using meters, and wiring for AC and refrigeration.
- Basic Refrigeration Theory. How refrigeration works, refrigerants, tubing and piping, soldering and brazing, and evacuating and recovering refrigerant.
- Advanced Electric/Commercial Refrigeration. Motor controls, three phase power, refrigeration system design, piping and installation, and ice machines.
- Heat Pump Systems. How heat pumps work, defrost controls, SEER and EER ratings, charging methods, and troubleshooting.
- Commercial/Residential Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps. AC principles, system design, components and circuits, superheat measurements, and AC service and repair.
- Heating Systems. Gas furnaces, combustion, heating circuits and diagrams, furnace installation, code requirements, and EPA certification.
- Advanced Troubleshooting and Equipment Installation. Diagnosing and installing furnaces, heat pumps, and AC units, plus customer service and how to run a service call.
Every course mixes lecture with hands on lab time, so you work on real equipment with an instructor right there.
How long is HVAC school at HCI?
You can finish in as few as 10 months. HCI offers morning and evening classes, so ask admissions which one is open for your start date.
Refrigerant training and EPA certification
Working with refrigerant is a big part of HVAC. In HCI's program, you train in the proper use and disposal of refrigerants, and the Heating Systems course covers EPA certification.
School program or apprenticeship?
You might be weighing HVAC school against an apprenticeship. Here's the difference. HCI's program is a school program, so you learn as a student in classes and hands on labs, with instructors guiding you the whole way. An apprenticeship is on the job training through an employer.
Lots of people like building a strong foundation in school first, then looking for entry level work. The right path is the one that fits your life.
What jobs could you look into after the program?
Graduates can explore entry level opportunities in places like hospitals, property management facilities, and contracting services.
Entry level job titles to look into include Assistant Facilities Manager, Maintenance Technician, and Field Service Technician.
HCI's Career Services Office is there to help graduates look for entry level opportunities in their field. Employment isn't guaranteed, but you won't be figuring it out alone.
How much does HVAC school cost?
Tuition and fees are listed in the student catalog on HCI's consumer information page.
Financial aid is available for those who qualify. The financial aid team can walk you through grants, loans, and payment options.
FAQ
How long is HVAC school at HCI?
In as few as 10 months.
Can I take HVAC classes at night?
HCI offers morning and evening classes. Ask admissions what's open for your start date.
Does the program cover EPA certification?
Yes. You train in the proper use and disposal of refrigerants, and the Heating Systems course covers EPA certification.
Is HVAC school hands on?
Yes. Every course includes lab time working on real equipment with an instructor.
Is HCI accredited?
Yes. Houston Career Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
See the HVAC lab for yourself
Houston Career Institute is at 9700 Bissonnet Street in Houston, close to Sharpstown, Gulfton, Bellaire, and Alief.
Request info or schedule a campus tour, and an admissions rep can go over start dates, class times, admissions requirements, and financial aid for those who qualify.
Houston Career Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). Career services assistance is available to students and graduates; employment is not guaranteed.
