MASTERING RESIDENTIAL HVAC SYSTEM DESIGN
NEXT MA MASTERCLASS STARTS 10/02/26
For busy HVAC sales professionals and technicians who need to master residential system design without wasting time. A 4-week self-paced masterclass — real-world, no-fluff training built on 25+ years of hands-on experience, focused on cold-climate heat pump system design.
This 2026 Climate-Critical Workforce Training Program is completely funded by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center.
Unlock the Power of Precision Design
Led by an industry expert with 25 years of experience, you’ll delve into the intricacies of Manual J calculations, duct diagnostics, and everything in between — and learn to apply them in the real world.
Manual J, Done Right
Gain a thorough understanding of Manual J calculations and learn how to apply them effectively to size HVAC systems accurately.
Master the Site Survey
Master the art of the site survey and learn to identify the crucial factors that impact HVAC system performance.
Maximize Efficiency
Explore advanced concepts like whole-home ventilation, duct location optimization, and fenestration analysis to maximize energy efficiency and comfort.
What You Get as Part of the Course
45+ Recorded Sessions
Short, focused videos you can watch any number of times, at your own pace.
Community Access
Access to our private community to share, ask, and learn alongside other design pros.
Live Q&A Sessions
Live 1-hour Q&A sessions every week so everyone stays on the same page.
A Comprehensive 4-Week Virtual Masterclass
Material is released each Monday over 4 weeks, with a live Q&A that Friday at 10AM EST. 18 assessments are built in to keep you on track.
MODULE 1
Manual J & Site Survey
- Overview of Manual J · Realistic Expectations & the Occupied Zone
- Site Survey & Site Survey Form
- Indoor & Outdoor Design Conditions
- Layout, Floor Plan & Framing / Wall Insulation
- Construction Quality · HRV or ERV & Whole-Home Ventilation
- Ceilings, Floor / Attic Insulation & Area-Weighted R-Value
- Internal Gains, Ducts & Fenestration (Low-E, SHGC)
- Manual J Software, Reports & System Design Scorecard
- Passing Load Calcs for a Building Permit & Electric Panel Survey
- Assessments #1–#6
MODULE 2
Manual Zr · System Zoning
- Load Calcs for Zoned Systems
- Making Zoning Decisions
- Causes of Temperature & Comfort Problems
- Zoning System Diagnostics
- Assessments #7–#8
MODULE 3
Manual S · Equipment Selection
- Manual S Overview · Fossil Fuel Furnaces & Boilers
- Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps
- Dual Fuel · Balance Points & Break-Even COP
- Humidifiers & Ancillary Dehumidification
- Manual S Summary
- Assessments #9–#12
MODULE 4
Manual D · Residential Duct Design
- Available Static Pressure & Total Equivalent Length
- Friction Loss Worksheet & Using a Duct Calculator
- Duct Sizing · Verifying Velocity · Sizing Trunk Duct
- Rules of Duct Design & Flexible Duct Design
- Low Static AHU Duct Design · eBook: Mastering Duct Diagnostics
- Bonus — Manual T, Air Distribution Concepts · Week 4 Live Q&A
- Assessments #13–#18
Love Shared by HVAC Pro Blog Learners
“We just started an HVAC division and with the help of Chris & the HVAC Pro Blog, we’ve been able to size and install our systems with excellence. One of the best business decisions we’ve made!”
Carlos L. · Sales
“You will not find a better resource when it comes to system design. He is very passionate about teaching what he knows. I always learn new things every time.”
Tony M. · Sales
“Chris’s classes, blog & support have been essential to providing accurate information to inspectors and making sure equipment sizing meets code and is optimal for comfort, dependability & efficiency.”
Rick P. · Sales
“Chris is the most knowledgeable guy in the industry and his masterclass is 5 star. Anyone considering getting better at their craft should connect with Chris and join his community.”
Reid B. · Sales
“Chris is a wealth of knowledge. His presentations are up to date and very informative — and he doesn’t just read the slides! Highly recommended!”
Robert K. · Consultant
“Awesome knowledge. If you want to take your career to the next level, this is a must.”
Aaron I. · Sales
Invest in Your Future
Whether you’re an HVAC salesperson, energy auditor, or code official, this masterclass equips you with the knowledge and skills to excel in your role and make a lasting impact on your clients and community.
Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your career and become a master of residential HVAC system design.
Apply Now arrow_forwardFrequently Asked Questions
Can’t find an answer? Don’t hesitate to reach out.
When does the course start and finish?expand_more
The course is self-paced and you may take as long as necessary to complete it. Each block of material is released over 4 weeks on each Monday, with a live Q&A scheduled that Friday at 10AM EST (except when conflicting with holidays). All students are welcome to attend.
How long will I have access to the course?expand_more
You will have at least one year of access to the course and community through the HVAC Pro Blog Courses platform (hosted on FreshLearn).
How do I access the course materials?expand_more
Log in to HVAC Pro Blog Courses via Sign Up/Login. Course videos are viewed through the platform and aren’t available for download. Some items, such as course worksheets, are available to download.
What’s the weekly time commitment?expand_more
It’s largely up to you, but plan for at least 4 hours a week. Recorded content ranges from 4–15 minute videos, and the supporting articles are roughly 5-minute reads. A few longer videos cover Manual Zr and equipment selection in Manual S.
I use Wrightsoft for Manual J — is that OK?expand_more
This masterclass doesn’t use any specific software. The Manual J content focuses on the site survey and understanding exactly what the inputs need to be for the software of your choice — including Wrightsoft.
See the MA Program in Action
A quick look at what the MassCEC-funded masterclass covers and who it’s built for.
