This course provides a comprehensive foundation in the theory and practical design of small residential air-to-air heat pump systems, including dual fuel, ducted, and ductless configurations. Students will gain an understanding of heat pump technology, focusing on the refrigerant cycle, modern refrigerants, system performance, and cold climate operating considerations such as defrost cycles. System design training addresses identification of appropriate system types, equipment selection, controls, zoning strategies, and addressing auxiliary or supplemental heating and ventilation in both new construction and retrofit applications.

Through applied exercises, learners will use best practices, calculations, and design tools to develop and document system designs suitable for quotation, installation, and verification. The course will introduce installation and verification methods to support quality design and system operation. The course leverages students’ prior experience in heat loss and heat gain calculations, forced-air system design, and overall system performance assessment. Instruction is supported by industry experts and collaborative class discussions to help students justify design decisions and solve common challenges in residential heat pump systems.

This course is a TECA Quality First training offered at BCIT. Successful learners will earn a Certification from TECA in Quality First Air to Air Heat Pump Design (Residential).

Course Learning Outcomes/Competencies:

Upon successful completion, the student will be able to:

1. Explain refrigeration principles in the context of a heat pump and the function of each component.
2. Compare the types and performance characteristics of various air-source heat pump systems for small residential use.
3. Design residential air to air heat pump systems in new construction or retrofit applications while addressing specific design requirements of a given dwelling.
4. Select residential air to air heat pump equipment using information from heating and cooling load calculations, manufacturers data, and the design parameters.
5. Design a practical control strategy for system including control of auxiliary heat.
6. Plan the design details for installation of a residential air to air heat pump system in new construction and retrofit projects.
7. Explain commissioning requirements for installed residential air to air heat pump systems using manufacturers guides and good practices based on industry standards.
8. Explain design allowances to support system maintenance requirements by referencing manufacturer’s manuals and good practice.