AST 3040 - Automotive HVAC

· EPA 609 (This certification is required for the course.)

Course Description:
The Automotive HVAC course provides students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to diagnose, repair, service heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in modern vehicles. This course covers a broad range of HVAC topics, including refrigeration cycles, electronic controls, heating and cooling systems, climate control, and environmental concerns related to refrigerants.

Students will gain hands-on experience in troubleshooting system faults, performing evacuations and recharges, diagnosing leaks, and replacing components such as compressors, condensers, evaporators, and expansion valves. Special attention is given to understanding the newer refrigerants, R-1234yf and R-134a, as well as ensuring environmental compliance.

The course also emphasizes safety protocols when handling refrigerants and working with HVAC components, in accordance with industry standards and environmental regulations.

By the end of this course, students will be prepared for ASE H1 certification in Heating and Air Conditioning and ready for entry-level roles in automotive HVAC service.

Student Learning Outcomes:
1. Air Conditioning Systems and Refrigeration Cycle

· A7.A.1 - Understand and explain the refrigeration cycle, including compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation.

· A7.A.2 - Diagnose and repair the operation of air conditioning system components such as compressors, condensers, evaporators, expansion valves, and accumulators.

· A7.A.3 - Test and verify proper operation of the air conditioning system using gauges and diagnostic tools.

· A7.A.4 - Perform system inspections and identify air conditioning system faults like improper cooling, system leaks, or compressor failure.

2. Heating Systems and Components

· A7.B.1 - Diagnose and repair heating systems, including heaters, heater cores, and heater control valves.

· A7.B.2 - Inspect and replace components such as blower motors, heater hoses, and heater control switches.

· A7.B.3 - Test and repair cabin temperature control systems, including climate control and manual temperature regulation.

3. System Performance and Efficiency

· A7.C.1 - Perform diagnostic tests to assess air conditioning system performance, including checking temperature, airflow, refrigerant pressure, and system efficiency.

· A7.C.2 - Identify and correct issues related to improper airflow, such as clogged filters, defective blowers, or blocked air ducts.

· A7.C.3 - Test and repair problems with the operation of the cabin air delivery system, including defrosting, heating, and cooling functions.

4. Refrigerant Recovery, Recycling, and Charging

· A7.D.1 - Safely recover refrigerant from automotive air conditioning systems using recovery and recycling equipment.

· A7.D.2 - Recycle refrigerants in compliance with EPA regulations and ensure environmental compliance during recovery and disposal.

· A7.D.3 - Recharge air conditioning systems with the correct refrigerant type (e.g., R-134a, R-1234yf) to the proper specifications.

· A7.D.4 - Check refrigerant levels, perform evacuations, and ensure no leaks are present after recharging the system.

5. Leak Detection and System Repairs

· A7.E.1 - Use diagnostic tools such as UV dye, electronic leak detectors, and soap solutions to detect refrigerant leaks in air conditioning systems.

· A7.E.2 - Perform repairs on leaking HVAC components, including evaporators, condensers, hoses, fittings, and seals.

· A7.E.3 - Replace damaged components and recheck the system for leaks after repairs.

6. Electrical and Electronic Control Systems

· A7.F.1 - Diagnose and repair electrical components and circuits related to HVAC systems, such as blower motors, switches, and relays.

· A7.F.2 - Test, replace, and calibrate sensors and actuators within the HVAC system, including temperature and pressure sensors, actuators, and control modules.

· A7.F.3 - Use scan tools and digital multimeters to diagnose issues with electronic climate control systems and resolve faults with temperature and airflow regulation.

7. Environmental and Safety Regulations

· A7.G.1 - Comply with EPA and other environmental regulations regarding refrigerant handling, recovery, and disposal.

· A7.G.2 - Follow proper safety procedures when handling refrigerants, including using personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper storage methods.

· A7.G.3 - Ensure compliance with safety standards related to refrigerant recovery and disposal and vehicle HVAC system service.

8. Customer Communication and Service

· A7.H.1 - Effectively communicate with customers regarding HVAC system issues, recommended repairs, and maintenance services.

· A7.H.2 - Provide estimates for system repairs and offer solutions for improving system performance and reliability.

· A7.H.3 - Explain the importance of regular HVAC system maintenance to customers, including cabin air filter replacement, refrigerant levels, and overall system health.

Outcome:

By mastering the competencies outlined above, a technician will be proficient in diagnosing, servicing, and repairing automotive heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. These competencies align with the requirements for ASE A7 certification, ensuring that the technician is prepared for both practical applications and advanced diagnostics within the automotive HVAC industry.