HYDRONIC DESIGNER / INSTALLER MODULE DESCRIPTIONS
PIP301: Blueprint ReadingThis module covers the basic skills required for interpreting information provided by drawings. These skills are essential in the industry as drawings are used extensively in all aspects of construction. At a minimum, operators in this field need a basic understanding of reading drawings.
Upon successful completion of this Module, you will be able to demonstrate correct use of blueprint drawings to provide required information.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
list the use of different types of lines in blueprints.
describe different types of drawings and draw simple objects. manipulate isometric drawings and draw isometric shapes. identify symbols and abbreviations.
demonstrate how to successfully scale various types of blueprint drawings. determine elevations used on drawings.
identify and select information from blueprint drawings.
PIP302: Boiler and Piping Installation
This module is an overview of generally accepted methods for locating boilers, associated trim, and identifying factors for piping installations. The designer / installer must have a good
understanding of the correct methods of assembling systems in order to properly design and install hydronic systems.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify factors determining boiler location.
locate trim on a typical hot water boiler installation. identify piping installation factors.
PIP303: Boilers
The hydronic installer must be fully aware of the different and varied types of boilers available. Technological advance has greatly influenced modern-day boilers, and improved models are continually added to the marketplace. Gone are the largely inefficient boilers; the new designs are capable of outstanding efficiency and dependable operation. The installer must be cognizant of the different types, their operation, and their compatibility with the intended application. This knowledge will help the installer offer the customer practical advice so that s/he can make an informed decision as to the boiler of choice.
identify applicable codes and regulations for heating boilers.
identify and describe the advantages and disadvantages of a low mass boiler. identify and describe the advantages and disadvantages of a high mass boiler. identify and describe the advantages and disadvantages of a condensing boiler. identify and describe the advantages and disadvantages of a hot water tank. identify and describe the advantages and disadvantages of a hybrid boiler.
identify and describe the advantages and disadvantages of an indirect water heater.
PIP304: Building Construction
Individuals seeking certification as Hydronic designers may not necessarily have been exposed to the various construction methods used in light commercial and residential buildings. This module outlines basic construction information that can be used for design and installation of hydronic installations in these kinds of buildings.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify basic construction techniques for residential buildings. identify basic construction techniques for light commercial buildings. identify basic construction techniques for ICF construction.
identify basic construction methods relevant to heating applications for agricultural buildings, snow melt and frost protection.
PIP306: Control Wiring
Knowing how to read wiring schematics, understanding good wiring practices, and learning about the components that must be wired will provide the installer with basic skills. Combine these areas with manufacturer’s information to successfully wire hydronic systems.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify considerations for control wiring related components
distinguish high and low voltage wiring on control wiring schematics and recognize signal pathways.
recognize good practices for wiring Hydronic heating system controls
PIP307: Controls
A firm understanding of the controls required for the safe installation of a hot water boiler is fundamental to any installer and service person. Some controls are mandated by code for safe operation; others are in place to meet the needs of the customer.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify types and purpose of basic controls. identify and describe typical boiler safety devices.
identify and describe the purpose of typical boiler operating devices. identify and describe the purpose of typical microprocessors.
identify and describe installation practices for typical microprocessor components
PIP308 Estimation
It is important to accurately determine the materials and labour required to install an efficient hydronic heating system that meets all code and manufacturer’s requirements.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
describe basic estimating process including terminology.
describe elements of cost estimates including material, labour, overhead, etc. describe the purpose of the Bid Depository.
list and describe computer-assisted analyses of hydronic heating estimates. describe the process for preparing a hydronic heating estimate.
prepare a hydronic heating estimate for materials.
PIP309 Alternative Heatsource
Individuals seeking certification may not be aware of alternative heat sources in today’s market. This module describes the more common alternative heat sources employed today.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
describe the operation of geothermal heat pumps.
describe and explain different installation and design techniques.
state the efficiency of components and installation practices of geothermal heat pump systems.
describe the operation of the solar energy collection.
state the efficiency of components and installation practices of solar energy collection systems.
describe the components and the operation of fuel cell technology. describe how these technologies tie into a hydronic heating system.
PIP310: Heat
The hydronic designer must understand the principles of heat to properly design heating systems.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
examine and describe heat.
describe measurement of pressure. discuss characteristics of heat transfer. measure and interpret heat quantities. describe and calculate thermal expansion. define heat terminology.
PIP311: Heat Loss
The Hydronic designer must be able to understand the process of heat loss estimations to properly design Hydronic systems.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
recognize and interpret comfort and the effects of body heat loss. describe heat transfer in a building.
analyze and describe building plans.
compile and assess heat loss factors and calculations. perform heat loss estimations.
The final links in the heating system are the heat transfer units. These pieces of equipment achieve the final goal of any heating system as they transfer the heat to its final destination. This transfer involves a number of different methods from the use of convection by baseboard units to the use of radiant heat energy by in-floor heating. The installer must understand how each heat transfer unit performs its job.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify and describe radiators and towel warmers. identify and describe wall and baseboard units. identify and describe forced flow units.
identify and describe radiant type systems.
PIP313: Materials
This module is an overview of the many types of materials and piping components commonly found in hydronic installations. The variety of joining methods demands that the installer have a thorough background in all types of installations and a firm understanding of all tools and joining processes.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify and compare various metallic piping materials and joining methods. identify and compare various non-metallic piping materials and joining methods. identify and compare standard valve types.
identify and compare manifold types and installation. identify and compare three- and four-way valves. identify and compare zone valves.
PIP314: Pumps
The hydronic installer must be able to select, install, and service circulators in a hydronic heating system. The circulator is the heart of the system and must be correctly installed.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
describe the operation of a centrifugal pump.
identify and compare pump types and construction characteristics. define applicable pump terminology.
select and size pumps for hydronic heating applications. identify the correct location for pump installation.
identify pump controls and associated electrical circuits. define common pump problems and recall corrective actions.
PIP315: Residential Mechanical Ventilation 1
The hydronic installer should be able to install, startup and balance a residential HRV system in accordance with provincial trade requirements. It is assumed that the student will be installing the HRV in conjunction with hydronic heating systems and a fully ducted exhaust system.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
describe the different designs of ventilation distribution systems used for hydronic heating.
describe the proper locations for indoor intakes and outlets.
describe the proper procedures for startup and balancing an HRV system properly maintain an HRV system
PIP316: Residential Mechanical Ventilation 2
The hydronic installer should be able to design a residential HRV system in accordance with provincial trade requirements. It is assumed that the student will be installing the HRV in conjunction with hydronic heating systems and a fully ducted exhaust system. It is also assumed that the student has successfully completed the HRV installer module.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to :
describe the different designs of ventilation distribution systems used for hydronic heating.
explain why an HRV should be a particular size and choose an appropriate unit for a given application.
describe mandatory and optional controls available for the operation of an HRV system develop a system plan for the proper ventilation of a home.
describe ductwork sizing procedures for collection and distribution systems.
PIP317: Scenarios
Deciding which particular piping arrangement is most suitable can sometimes be difficult if you don’t understand the different characteristics. Although you should always consult
manufacturer’s information, basic knowledge of the various arrangements is an asset. To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
recognize the various piping arrangements and describe the different applications they are most suitable for.
PIP318: System Accessories
Numerous devices vital to a trouble-free installation are incorporated into a hydronic heating system. Whether it is removing air or controlling the expansion or contraction of water, these areas must be addressed. This module examines a number of components essential to the operation of the system.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify and state the purpose of a cross connection device and automatic make-up water device.
identify and state the purpose of air elimination devices. identify and state the purpose of expansion devices.
identify and state the purpose of temperature and pressure indicators. identify and state the purpose of heat exchangers.
PIP319: System Design Factors
When designing and installing systems for customers, an understanding of what the customer needs and knowledge of what type of a system will satisfy those requirements is essential. This module covers basic considerations when planning a system so the Designer/Installer is
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify basic types of systems.
describe considerations for future expansion and family size. describe and apply the fundamentals of snow melt systems. describe and apply the fundamentals of air conditioning.
PIP320: System Documentation
This module explores the advantages and code requirements of properly documenting hydronic heating jobs. Methods of accomplishing these objectives are identified as well as the reasons documentation is required for today’s modern hydronic heating installations.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify and state the advantages of maintaining as-built records and documentation of Hydronic heating systems.
state the code requirements regarding the recording and documentation of hydronic heating systems.
describe and develop various check sheets that can be used to document Hydronic Heating system requirements.
PIP321: System Start-up and Troubleshooting
Designers and installers must have an understanding of the correct procedures to fill, flush and treat water in hydronic heating systems as well as commissioning boilers and systems.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
state correct procedures for commissioning a hydronic heating system.
state the procedures to initially fill and vent a hydronic system and considerations for adding treatment conditioners and glycol.
list the steps required to safely commission a boiler.
Be able to list the steps required to commission the controls and piping distribution systems.
PIP323: Tube Installation
The lack of knowledge and training has resulted in numerous hydronic installations that fail to meet the customer's expectations and requirements. It is essential for the installer to understand the basic installation material and methods for various radiant systems. This module will cover basic installation methods and materials but the installer must familiarize themselves with each manufacturer's installation procedure and materials.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
calculate tube requirements for a typical installation.
state the radiant installation procedures for manifolds and circuit layout. state the installation procedures for radiant slabs on grade.
state the installation procedures for joist systems and sub floor state testing and circuit identification procedures
To install control systems and troubleshoot controls, the hydronic installer must have an understanding of basic electricity and the operation of related components.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
define applicable electrical terminology.
apply Ohm’s Law and define electrical rating systems. identify Series, Parallel, and Combination Circuitry. identify wiring components and ratings.
identify applicable wiring connectors. identify applicable electrical devices.
demonstrate the correct use of electrical meters.
PIP352: Boilers and Accessories (Practical)
This module provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate the practical skills required to achieve certification as a Hydronic installer.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
Identify boiler types, associated trim and accessories
Identify boiler trim and accessories as per manufacturers recommendations and good piping practice
Interpret a schematic drawing and install components correctly according to instructions and good piping practices
PIP353: Control Wiring (Practical)
This module provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate the practical skills required when installing controls to achieve certification as a Hydronic installer.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify control strategies used on Hydronic systems apply suitable control strategies for sample applications
apply “good practice” techniques when wiring controls
PIP355: System Design Considerations
The Hydronic Installer must rely on the heatloss estimations and the system design originated by a designer. An awareness of the correct elements is needed to better understand the design and ensure the design is suitable for the application.
To successfully complete this Module, you should be able to:
identify information used to determine heat loss identify general equipment application characteristics summarize the fundamentals of snow melt systems summarize the fundamentals of air conditioning
