HVAC Full Course Syllabus (Beginner to Advanced)
🧰 Beginner Level: Fundamentals of HVAC
Chapter 1: Introduction to HVACWhat is HVAC?
History & Evolution of HVAC
Importance in modern buildings (residential, commercial, industrial)
Classification of HVAC systems
🛠️ Practical: Visit a nearby HVAC installation, observe components
📄 Assignment/Interview:
Define HVAC and its scope.
What are the basic functions of HVAC systems?
Chapter 2: Principles of Thermodynamics & Heat Transfer
First & Second Laws of Thermodynamics
Heat Transfer Modes (Conduction, Convection, Radiation)
Heat Load Calculations
🛠️ Practical: Simple demo of conduction using metal rods and flame
📄 Questions:
Explain conduction vs convection.
What is sensible and latent heat?
Chapter 3: Refrigeration Cycle
Vapor Compression Cycle
Components: Compressor, Condenser, Expansion Valve, Evaporator
COP (Coefficient of Performance)
🛠️ Practical: Sketch and label a refrigeration cycle
📄 Questions:
Explain the working of a basic vapor compression cycle.
What is COP and how does it affect efficiency?
Chapter 4: Psychrometrics
Dry Bulb, Wet Bulb, Dew Point Temperatures
Relative Humidity, Enthalpy, Specific Volume
Psychrometric Chart
🛠️ Practical: Plot points on a psychrometric chart
📄 Questions:
What is relative humidity?
Why is psychrometry important in HVAC?
🔧 Intermediate Level: System Design & Equipment
Chapter 5: HVAC System Types
Centralized vs Decentralized
Split AC, Packaged Units, VRV/VRF Systems
Chillers and Cooling Towers
🛠️ Practical: Compare system types in a real-life building
📄 Questions:
What is the difference between VRV and VRF?
When to use centralized vs decentralized?
Chapter 6: Duct Design & Air Distribution
Types of Ducts
Duct Sizing (Velocity and Friction Method)
Diffusers, Grilles, Dampers
🛠️ Practical: Measure air velocity using anemometer
📄 Questions:
Explain the friction loss method.
What are balancing dampers?
Chapter 7: Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) & Ventilation
Importance of IAQ
Natural vs Mechanical Ventilation
ASHRAE Standards
🛠️ Practical: Check CO₂ levels in closed vs ventilated rooms
📄 Questions:
Why is IAQ important in hospitals?
Name devices used for IAQ improvement.
Chapter 8: HVAC Controls & Automation
Thermostats, Sensors, Actuators
Building Management Systems (BMS)
Smart HVAC Systems (IoT based)
🛠️ Practical: Control a mini HVAC unit using thermostat
📄 Questions:
What is BMS?
How does IoT improve HVAC efficiency?
🛠️ Advanced Level: Load Calculation, Codes & Energy Efficiency
Chapter 9: Load Calculations
Heat Gain/Loss
Manual J, Manual S (Residential)
CLTD Method for Commercial
🛠️ Practical: Perform a heat load calculation for a room
📄 Questions:
What factors affect cooling load?
Define CLTD method.
Chapter 10: Energy Efficiency in HVAC
EER, SEER, ISEER Ratings
Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERV)
Green Building Concepts (LEED)
🛠️ Practical: Compare SEER ratings of 3 AC units
📄 Questions:
How does ERV save energy?
What is a good EER value?
Chapter 11: HVAC Codes, Standards & Safety
ISHRAE, ASHRAE, SMACNA
Fire Dampers, Smoke Detectors
Safety Protocols during Installation
🛠️ Practical: Identify safety labels and equipment
📄 Questions:
What is SMACNA?
Safety protocols for HVAC technicians?
Chapter 12: Troubleshooting & Maintenance
Common Issues in ACs and Chillers
Preventive vs Corrective Maintenance
Maintenance Logbooks
🛠️ Practical: Service a window AC
📄 Questions:
Why is regular servicing important?
Common symptoms of refrigerant leakage?
Chapter 13: HVAC in Special Applications
Hospitals & Clean Rooms
Data Centers (Precision Cooling)
Metro/Railway/Industrial HVAC
🛠️ Practical: Study HVAC zoning in hospitals
📄 Questions:
What is laminar flow?
What special care is needed in server rooms?
📋 Final Project
Design a complete HVAC system for:
A 3BHK House (residential)
A Small Office (commercial)
Include:
Load calculation
Equipment selection
Duct design layout
IAQ considerations
🧠 Common Interview Questions
Explain the working principle of a chiller.
How do you perform a cooling load calculation?
What is the function of an expansion valve?
What are VRV/VRF systems?
How do you balance an HVAC system?
What is the difference between EER and SEER?
Explain the importance of a thermostat in an HVAC system.