Introduction

HVAC systems are the lifeblood of any modern property, directly impacting occupant comfort, health, and a significant portion of a building's operational budget. For property professionals, a deep understanding of HVAC is no longer a technical nicety but a strategic necessity. Mastering the principles of HVAC management is essential for reducing energy consumption, preventing costly emergency repairs, and ensuring that your assets remain competitive and compliant with evolving standards. This course provides a comprehensive roadmap for transforming reactive maintenance into a proactive, cost-saving strategy.

This program is designed to bridge the gap between property management and technical systems, empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions that benefit your bottom line. You will gain a practical understanding of everything from system components and maintenance schedules to smart technology integration and energy-efficient retrofits. By the end of this intensive course, you will be able to optimize your HVAC systems to enhance building performance, extend equipment lifecycles, and create a healthier, more comfortable environment for all occupants.

Duration

5 days

Target Audience

• Property managers
• Facility managers
• Building engineers
• Asset managers
• Maintenance supervisors
• Real estate professionals

Objectives

• To understand the core components and principles of HVAC systems.
• To develop and implement a comprehensive preventative maintenance program.
• To manage HVAC budgets and reduce long-term operational costs.
• To effectively manage and negotiate with HVAC contractors and vendors.
• To leverage smart technology for energy efficiency and remote monitoring.
• To ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Course Modules

Module 1: HVAC System Fundamentals

• The basic principles of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
• Understanding the core components: compressors, condensers, evaporators, and fans.
• The refrigeration cycle and its role in cooling.
• The function of ductwork, filters, and air handlers.
• Differentiating between different system types (e.g., split systems, VRF, central plants).

Module 2: Preventative Maintenance Strategies

• Developing a systematic preventative maintenance schedule.
• The importance of regular inspections and service checks.
• The role of filter changes, coil cleaning, and lubrication.
• Creating a maintenance log and record-keeping system.
• The financial benefits of a proactive vs. reactive approach.

Module 3: Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

• Identifying common HVAC system issues (e.g., poor airflow, unusual noises, leaks).
• Basic troubleshooting steps for property professionals.
• Recognizing when to call a qualified HVAC technician.
• Understanding system alarms and error codes.
• The impact of thermostat malfunctions and improper settings.

Module 4: Energy Efficiency and Optimization

• Strategies for reducing energy consumption through HVAC optimization.
• The impact of building envelope on HVAC performance.
• Using smart thermostats and programmable controls.
• The benefits of retro-commissioning and system retrofits.
• Understanding and calculating energy savings from upgrades.

Module 5: Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and Health

• The link between HVAC systems and indoor air quality.
• The importance of proper ventilation and filtration.
• Managing humidity levels to prevent mold and mildew.
• Understanding air purification technologies (e.g., HEPA, UV-C).
• Ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

Module 6: Vendor and Contractor Management

• The process of selecting and vetting qualified HVAC service providers.
• Writing a clear Request for Proposal (RFP).
• Negotiating service level agreements (SLAs) and contracts.
• Evaluating contractor performance and building strong relationships.
• Ensuring all work is compliant with safety and legal requirements.

Module 7: Financial Management and Budgeting

• Creating an accurate HVAC operations and maintenance budget.
• Forecasting capital expenditure (CapEx) for major repairs and replacements.
• Analyzing the lifecycle cost of HVAC equipment.
• Cost-saving strategies through efficiency and negotiation.
• The financial return on investment for HVAC upgrades.

Module 8: Technology and Smart Systems

• An introduction to Building Management Systems (BMS).
• The role of the Internet of Things (IoT) in HVAC.
• Using data analytics for predictive maintenance.
• Remote monitoring and control of HVAC systems.
• Cybersecurity considerations for connected systems.

Module 9: Strategic Management and Planning

• Integrating HVAC management into a broader property strategy.
• Developing a long-term capital replacement plan for HVAC assets.
• The importance of occupant education and engagement.
• Case studies of successful HVAC management strategies.
• Preparing a business case for a major HVAC project.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.