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Program Description

Students enrolled in the CTECS Plumbing, Heating & Cooling career program will obtain instruction and demonstrate skills and knowledge in construction safety, measuring and blueprint reading, calculations of plumbing, heating and cooling systems including; drainage fixture units, water supply fixture units, gas pipe sizing, calculations of ductwork & heating systems with an emphasis on both heat loss and heat gain heating and cooling calculations. Students are also instructed on Domestic and Commercial Refrigeration systems, hybrid heat pump technology, gas, as well as oil heating systems.

Students’ in the Plumbing, Heating & Cooling program receive both on-site and off-campus jobsite learning opportunities simulating real-world applications. Students are instructed upon the installation and repair of water, waste, gas as well as mechanical systems such as installation and repair of refrigeration, heating, and cooling mechanical systems in both residential homes and commercial buildings.

In addition, students enrolled in the Plumbing, Heating & Cooling program will also obtain instruction in energy efficiency, environmental, renewable energy, as well as energy conservation practices. The systems that control indoor climate are constantly evolving to reflect technological advancements and environmental concerns.

The demand for plumbing, heating and cooling technicians is expected to outpace the supply of workers trained in this demanding but rewarding field. This career area is considered to be “In-Demand, Job Growth” Category as per CT-DOL. Plumbing, Heating & Cooling are licensed trades that requires not only highly technical knowledge and skill, but also a thorough understanding of the Connecticut adopted ICC Plumbing and Mechanical Codes.

Students receive up to 720 hours of instruction upon successful completion of the program. Students may be able to receive 1500 hours towards a career affiliated apprenticeship upon graduation* (*Upon Employer Acceptance)

Students are eligible to participate in work-based learning (WBL) in grades 11 & 12. This program allows companies to hire students during the school day to work as a pre-apprentice in the plumbing & heating industry.  Students will receive CT-DOL approved credit for their work experience which is an important pipeline for getting our students into industry.

For more information about our programs please view CTECS Program of Studies.

  • Identify, describe and apply health and safety regulations that apply to specific tasks and Jobsite Safety. Students must complete a safety credential program. Practice Shop and Jobsite Safety.
  • Identify, describe and apply Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other environmental protection regulations that apply to specific tasks and jobs in the specific occupational area.
  • Understand career opportunities in the Plumbing and HVAC industry
  • Understand joining methods for piping and sheet metal materials
  • Study blueprints, design specifications, or manufacturers’ recommendations to ascertain the configuration of Plumbing & HVAC fixtures and appliances to ensure the proper installation. Perform blueprint reading, sketching and estimating according to code.
  • Lay out full scale drawings of pipe systems, supports, or related equipment, according to blueprints
  • Demonstrate safe hand/power tool uses and operations
  • Identify, define and demonstrate the features and the regulations relating to water supplies.
  • Design and Install drainage, waste, and vent piping systems according to code.
  • Installation and Service Plumbing & HVAC Components.
  • Inspect, examine, or test installed systems or pipe lines, using pressure gauge, hydrostatic testing, observation, or other methods.
  • Attach pipes to walls, structures, or fixtures, such as radiators or tanks, using brackets, clamps, tools, or welding equipment.
  • Install pipes, fixtures, appliances, or equipment designed to reduce water or energy consumption
  • Install pipe systems to support alternative energy-fueled systems, such as solar thermal systems, and heat pump water heaters.
  • Install pipe systems to support conservation systems, such as rain-water and grey water systems.
  • Install automatic controls to regulate pipe systems
  • Installation of Fuel Gas. Demonstrate techniques in sizing and installing fuel gas systems.
  • Design, Install and Service of Hydronic Heating Equipment and Systems (Oil, Gas)
  • Design, Install and Repair gas and oil heating systems
  • Prepare cost estimates for clients
  • Career Exploration and Navigation
  • Building Science Principles Certificate
  • CSST Certification – Gas Supply Systems
  • CT-DOL – Apprenticeship Related Instruction 720 Hours
  • EPA Certification – Refrigerant Recovery/ Recycling
  • Fall Protection Certification
  • Ladder & Scaffolding Certification
  • Mobile Ladder Stands
  • OSHA – 10, 30 Certification – CFR – 1926
  • PHCC Level 101, 201, 301
  • Roth Oil Tank Certification
  • Pex Tubing Certification
  • Refrigeration Mechanic
  • Sheet Metal Design
  • Gas System Technician
  • Oil Burner Technician
  • Appliance Repair Technician
  • Residential and Commercial Heating and Air Conditioning Apprenticeship
  • Sprinkler-fitters Apprenticeship
  • Pipe-fitters Apprenticeship
  • Steamfitters Apprenticeship
  • Gasfitters Apprenticeship
  • Sheet Metal Apprentice
  • Service Technician
  • Sales Representative
  • Wholesale Supply Representative
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Plumbing Engineering