Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology
A 3-month practical training course in refrigeration and cooling systems for beginners: 80% workshop practice, 20% theory.
- Duration
- 3 months (12 weeks)
- Next start
- 4 January 2027, Accra, Ghana
- Schedule
- Mon to Thu, 9:00 to 15:00
- Minimum age
- 18 years
- Locations
- Accra, Ghana and Texas, USA
Programme description
This practical course prepares participants for entry-level work in refrigeration and cooling services. It combines the essential technical knowledge with structured workshop practice and supervised work on training systems.
Training runs Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 15:00 for 12 weeks, 48 training days in all. About 80% of the time is spent in the workshop and 20% on theory. Every task follows the same steps: participants understand it, watch a demonstration, practise, receive feedback and are then assessed.
What you will be able to do
- Explain the refrigeration cycle and identify its main components
- Use common refrigeration tools and measuring instruments safely
- Carry out basic copper pipework, brazing preparation and installation tasks under supervision
- Perform evacuation, pressure testing and charging procedures under supervision
- Carry out routine maintenance and structured fault finding on training equipment
- Work safely, follow procedures and report technical observations clearly
12-week curriculum
- Weeks 1 to 2Refrigeration fundamentals
Heat and temperature, pressure, heat transfer, the refrigeration cycle, system diagrams, refrigerants and the environment.
- Weeks 3 to 4Tools, components and workshop safety
Hand tools and instruments, compressors, condensers, evaporators, expansion devices, controls, protective equipment and safe workshop practice.
- Weeks 5 to 6Electrical fundamentals and controls
Electrical safety, basic circuits, motors, relays, contactors, capacitors, thermostats, wiring diagrams and basic electrical checks.
- Weeks 7 to 8Pipework and installation
Copper tube preparation, flaring and bending, brazing, joints, insulation, pressure testing, leak detection and evacuation.
- Weeks 9 to 10System operation and commercial refrigeration
Refrigerators and freezers, display cabinets, cold rooms, operating checks, temperature control, servicing and maintenance.
- Weeks 11 to 12Troubleshooting and assessment
Fault symptoms, systematic diagnosis, performance checks, service records, supervised practical tasks and the final assessment.
Start dates and fees
- 4 January 2027Accra, GhanaNext
- 5 April 2027Texas, USA
- 5 July 2027Accra, Ghana
- 4 October 2027Texas, USA
For the current fees, write to info@
Funding may be available through scholarships and programmes that support the training of skilled workers.
Who can apply
- Beginners: no experience in refrigeration is needed
- School leavers, career starters and anyone interested in technical work
- Willingness to learn and to follow safety instructions
Assessment and careers
Participants are assessed through short knowledge checks, observation of their work in the workshop, practical tasks including a final practical assignment, and their attendance and conduct.
The course builds a foundation for entry-level work in refrigeration service companies, HVAC installation and maintenance, hotels, supermarkets, food processing and cold storage.
The course does not replace any licence required by law and does not guarantee a job. During the course, refrigerant handling, brazing and electrical work are always done under supervision.
Further learning
- Further training in special refrigeration techniques, such as the use of environmentally friendly refrigerants
- Seminars and workshops on topics such as efficiency and fault analysis
Training on real systems
