BPI AC/Heat Pump study plan

Define the refrigeration cycle stages and state the pressure-temperature relationship for each, in writing, without notes

Calculate superheat and subcooling from given gauge and line-temperature readings for six practice scenarios

Explain how latent and sensible heat transfer drive evaporation and condensation in an air-source system

Distinguish heating-mode components (reversing valve, defrost controls, auxiliary heat) from cooling-mode components

Perform a room-by-room heat loss and heat gain estimate using a manual method for a sample 1,800 sq ft house

Select equipment capacity from the load estimate and justify the choice in two sentences

Size and route ductwork for the sample house using velocity and friction-rate limits

Identify three common oversizing failure modes and the symptoms each produces

Compare single-zone and multi-zone ductless layouts and state when each is preferred

Compute refrigerant line-set length allowances and required charge adjustments for three configurations

Lay out condensate drainage with correct slope, trap, and termination for a basement air handler

Draft a commissioning-ready design checklist covering electrical, clearance, and structural requirements

Sequence the mechanical installation steps from pad or bracket through brazing, pressure testing, and evacuation

State target evacuation levels and the hold-time criteria used to confirm a leak-free system

Wire line-voltage and low-voltage controls per a manufacturer diagram and verify each connection

Perform airflow setup: measure static pressure and adjust fan speed to hit design CFM

Execute a full start-up: verify charge by subcooling or weigh-in, confirm superheat in heating mode, and record all readings

Interpret gauge, temperature, and electrical readings to classify a fault as airflow, charge, or component failure

Build a diagnostic decision tree for low capacity complaints covering at least five branches

Explain how to verify defrost termination and reversing valve operation in heating mode

Diagnose three injected or described faults (restricted metering device, low charge, failing capacitor) from readings alone

Calculate expected amp draw and compare it to measured draw to flag anomalies

Describe a verification protocol that confirms delivered capacity after a repair

List the documentation required to prove a repair was completed to spec

Explain refrigerant handling, recovery, and PPE requirements in plain language for a customer-facing conversation

Draft a written scope of work and invoice line items for a replacement job that a customer can understand

Practice a scripted explanation of a diagnostic finding and two repair options with cost ranges

Identify the safety hazards on a service call and state the control for each

Complete a timed 100-question practice exam across all five domains and score 80 percent or better

Review every missed item and write the underlying concept and correct reasoning for each

Re-derive the five calculations you are least confident in (superheat, subcooling, load, static pressure, amp draw)

Summarize the three highest-risk mistakes on the job and the check that prevents each