(HARLINGEN, Texas) – Cold weather may be rare in the Rio Grande Valley, but it can have a major impact on businesses, homes and schools.
At Texas State Technical College, HVAC students are learning how to respond when the temperatures drop.
The training will help families stay comfortable, schools remain open and businesses continue serving customers when severe winter weather arrives.
“Students get hands-on practice troubleshooting and working on systems that are commonly used in residential and commercial settings,” said Roberto Fausto, a program instructor in Harlingen. “The equipment in our lab closely matches what a technician will work on at job sites.”
Frausto said air conditioning use drops significantly during colder months in the area.
“A strong understanding of heating systems allows technicians to continue working when cooling calls slow down,” he said. “Our students are aware that winter training adds valuable skills and increases a technician’s versatility.”
Having the right tools is also part of being a well-prepared HVAC technician. A multimeter plays a key role in diagnosing heating and electrical issues, and can make the difference when systems are under heavy demand.
Paulino Gonzalez, who is pursuing a certificate of completion in the program, said his training has made him more observant to how the air conditioning system operates in his home.
“Recently, I noticed a clicking noise when the outside system shut off,” the Weslaco resident said. “I learned the sound comes from the condenser fan turning off after it reaches maximum capacity. If I don’t hear that click, I should do the following steps — shut off the breakers, turn on the emergency cut off switch and check for continuity with the parts responsible for shutting the system down.”
Marcus Puente, of San Benito who is also working toward a certificate of completion, said he has also learned more about the systems.
“I’ve learned how to locate the parts, how to troubleshoot heating issues and how to maintain the unit if there’s a gas leak,” he said.
In Texas, heating, air conditioning and refrigeration mechanics and installers earn an average annual salary of $54,050, according to onetonline.org. The website forecast the number of jobs to grow 17% in the state from 2022 to 2032.
TSTC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree and certificates of completion in HVAC at its Abilene, Fort Bend County, Harlingen, North Texas, Waco and Williamson County campuses.
For more information, go to tstc.edu.