RBQ-recognized continuing education

RBQ Preparatory Training

15.9 Small Refrigeration Systems Contractor

a training session lasting 4 hours

This training program prepares entrepreneurs to perform installation, maintenance, and repair work on small refrigeration and air conditioning systems with a capacity not exceeding 20 kW and using A1 or A2 refrigerants, in accordance with the standards of the Mechanical Refrigeration Code (CSA B-52).

It also covers forced-air or hydronic heating and air conditioning systems with a maximum capacity of 40 kW, when combined with the appropriate subcategories (15.1, 15.1.1, 15.4, 15.4.1, 15.7, or 15.8).

Essential training for those who wish to specialize in small residential and light commercial refrigeration systems, a field in high demand where precision, compliance, and energy efficiency are at the heart of the profession.

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TRAINING RBQ PREPARATORY COURSE

The module is divided into four main topics covered in the three-hour RBQ exam for subcategory 15.9:

 

  • Definitions and types of systems: Units of measurement, refrigerant properties, and a description of how a compression refrigeration cycle and its components (condenser, evaporator, compressor) work.
  • Legal and Regulatory Framework: Application of ASHRAE standards, compliance with the Energy Conservation Act, environmental management of greenhouse gases (ozone layer), and the roles of certification bodies.
  • Blueprints, specifications, and estimates: Interpretation of refrigeration symbols on blueprints; analysis of general and specific load requirements in specifications; calculation of thermal loads (thermometry); and preparation of complete bid proposals.
  • Standards and Work Execution: System design, welding techniques, rigorous commissioning procedures (evacuation, drying, refrigerant charging), maintenance, and safe management of occupational hazards.

LEARN TO YOUR WAY

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100% ONLINE

Perfect for self-taught people; it allows youto study for your bachelor's degree at your own pace, independently.

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IN CLASS

Classroom training is ideal for those who want maximum direct interaction between trainers and students.

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VIDEOCONFERENCING

In conjunction with classroom training, training via Zoom is ideal for people who live far from one of our four centers.

THE OBJECTIVE OF THIS TRAINING

The primary objective of this training is to enhance general knowledge of construction and enable contractors to apply best practices. More specifically, it aims to improve participants’ knowledge and reinforce the importance of effective project management for contractors carrying out work related to:

 

  • The fundamentals of small air conditioning systems (direct and indirect systems, packaged or split systems), including the properties of Group A1 and A2 refrigerants and the applicable physical principles.
  • The legislative, regulatory, and standard-setting framework, including the Quebec Building Code, the Pressure Equipment Act, environmental standards regarding halocarbons, and CSA Standard B-52 on mechanical refrigeration.
  • Reading and interpreting plans, drawings, and specifications for small air conditioning systems to assess thermal loads, prepare quantity surveys, and draw up cost estimates.
  • The proper installation of refrigeration systems for air conditioning purposes with a maximum capacity of 20 kW, as well as forced-air or hydronic heating and air conditioning units with a maximum capacity of 40 kW, which are not reserved exclusively for master pipefitters.

Health and safety standards on the construction site, including the safe handling of hazardous materials, the prevention of risks associated with high pressure, and proper management during the recovery of refrigerants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Subcategory 15.9
: Contractor for small refrigeration systems

Subcategory 15.9 (Small Refrigeration Systems Contractor) is a specialized contractor’s license. It authorizes construction work that is not exclusively reserved for master pipefitters and that involves refrigeration systems for air conditioning purposes with a cooling capacity not exceeding 20 kW. These systems must use a refrigerant classified in Group A1, A2, or a mixture thereof.
To obtain this license, the prospective licensee must pass the core curriculum exams (Administration, Construction Site Safety Management, Project and Construction Site Management) as well as the specific exam on Construction Work Execution (ETC) for subcategory 15.9.

This license authorizes, in particular, work on air-to-air air conditioners, individual air conditioners, and central air conditioners (both monobloc and bi-bloc). In addition, it permits the installation of forced-air heating and air conditioning units or hydronic systems with a maximum capacity of 40 kW, provided that the contractor also holds the appropriate subcategories (such as 15.1, 15.4, 15.7, or 15.8).

The RBQ’s on-site work inspection, which lasts three hours, is divided into four main evaluation categories:

  • Definitions and types of systems.
  • The legislative, normative, and regulatory framework.
  • Reading plans and specifications (as well as estimating costs).
  • Standards and construction management.

No matter what type of training you choose— 100% online, in person, or via Zoom —you will always benefit fromthe RBQ educational support provided by our RBQ trainers. Their role is not limited to teaching the material: they are available to answer your questions, guide you, and help you better understand the essential concepts.

Thanks to our online training platform, it is quick and easy to contact trainers directly from your student area via the integrated messaging system. This allows you to obtain support for your entrepreneurial training, whether you have a general question or need clarification on a specific course.

This ongoing educational support significantly reduces the stress associated with RBQ exams and increases your chances of success, allowing you to move forward with clear, professional, and quick answers, without being left in uncertainty.

  • Rest assured that you are never alone in your dealings with the RBQ. GSC offers RBQ support to its members, which continues until you obtain your license and throughout your career thereafter.

Our team offers you personal, accessible, and ongoing support, particularly for:

  • the RBQ examination request;
  • planning or rescheduling an exam;
  • monitoring your case;
  • communication with the RBQ, as needed.

This RBQ support is included depending on your GSC membership status, allowing you to move forward with peace of mind, avoid mistakes, and complete your procedures with confidence.

Benefits of taking a course with GSC

By choosing the GSC Group, you benefit from high-quality RBQ training, designed specifically for contractors in the construction industry and aligned with RBQ requirements.

Here are the main advantages of our RBQ training courses:

Flexibility

  • Courses offered online, in person, or via Zoom, depending on your schedule and constraints.

Personalized support

  • Continuous human support before, during, and after training.
  • Help with exams, administrative procedures, and understanding the subject matter.

Exclusive member benefits

  • RBQ license bond included (depending on membership).
  • Discounts at numerous partners in the construction industry.
  • Free consultation with our team or one of our many partner professionals.

Recognized expertise and unique network

  • Training courses developed by construction experts.
  • Access to a network of over 7,000 active members, promoting sharing, opportunities, and comprehensive support that goes far beyond simple training.

Thanks to this comprehensive approach, our RBQ general contractor courses are not limited to passing exams: they enable you to build your business on solid, compliant, and sustainable foundations.

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JOIN THE GSC GROUP AND ENJOY A NUMBER OF BENEFITS

  • License bonding included: simplified compliance, hassle-free
  • Exclusive discounts from our partners: save on products and services
  • Free consultation time with industry experts
  • GSC app: all your tools, partners, and benefits in one place

TEACHERS PASSIONATE

READY TO START YOUR TRAINING?

RBQ Preparatory Training:
ONLINE

  • Full access to the GSC platform
  • Pre-recorded video training
  • Interactive modules with quizzes
  • Practical exams for each module
  • 24/7 e-mail access to your teacher
  • Optional services: incorporation, bonding, website, accounting

RBQ Preparatory Training: "
" via Video Conference

  • Live training
    (simultaneous with classroom courses)
  • Live interaction with the trainer
  • Full access to the GSC platform
  • Access to training videos
    (if required)
  • Interactive modules with quizzes
  • Practical exams for each module
  • 24/7 e-mail access to your teacher
  • Optional services: incorporation, bonding, website, accounting

RBQ Preparatory Training: "
" (In-Person)

  • On-site training
    (4 centers in Quebec)
  • Access to the trainer after the course
  • Full access to the GSC platform
  • Access to training videos
    (if required)
  • Interactive modules with quizzes
  • Practical exams for each module
  • 24/7 e-mail access to your teacher
  • Optional services: incorporation, bonding, website, accounting
  • Structured, distraction-free environment
  • Human connections and instant networking

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