Hands-On Air Conditioning & Heat Pump Installation Training

This three-day hands-on training course is designed to provide HVAC professionals with the essential knowledge and practical experience needed to install air conditioning and heat pump systems correctly, safely, and in compliance with industry standards. Participants will learn every step of the installation process—from system design and preparation to final commissioning. Through a combination of classroom instruction and extensive lab exercises, students will work on live residential split and heat pump systems to gain confidence in mechanical, electrical, and refrigerant connections. This course emphasizes best practices, attention to detail, and long-term reliability, regardless of equipment brand.

Key Learning Objectives

1. System Design & Sizing: Learn the importance of proper load calculations, equipment selection, and system layout for maximum comfort and efficiency
2. Pre-Installation Planning: Evaluate job sites, determine optimal unit placement, and prepare materials and tools for a successful installation
3. Mechanical Installation: Step-by-step training on mounting indoor and outdoor units, brazing line sets, installing condensate drains, and verifying airflow setup
4. Refrigerant Piping & Charging: Properly evacuate, pressure test, and charge systems using correct refrigerant handling and EPA-compliant techniques
5. Electrical & Controls: Learn safe wiring methods for high- and low-voltage circuits, thermostat setup, and communication control connections
6. Start-Up & Commissioning: Conduct start-up procedures, check refrigerant pressures and superheat/subcooling, and verify overall system performance
7. Heat Pump-Specific Considerations: Understand reversing valves, defrost cycles, and balance point setup for optimal seasonal performance
8. Common Installation Errors: Identify and correct issues such as line set contamination, airflow restrictions, and improper electrical connections

Equipment:

Students will work with fully operational, brand-neutral air conditioning and heat pump systems in a professional training environment.

Who Should Attend:

1. HVAC installers and technicians seeking to improve their installation skills
2. Apprentices and students entering the HVAC field

Registration fees includes: Catered lunch

Our Instructor:

John Nowicki has been in the HVAC industry since 1985 and has worked for leading contractors in the Southeastern PA region. His background includes residential through light industrial HVAC diagnostics and repairs. John also has experience as a residential service manager and in residential and light commercial installation. His current positions are Lead Technical Trainer, Commercial Field Instructor, Technical Advisor, and Apprenticeship Manager. John often describes himself as passionate about excellence in the HVAC profession and helping others become the best they can be. His fellow techs often refer to him as an air flow nerd.

Hotel Accommodations

PPATEC is pleased to partner with local hotels that are in close proximity to our primary training venues. Our hotel partners offer student discounted rates on overnight accommodations. Please see the link below to visit our hotel partners page.

Click Here for Hotel Partners