Boilers and Piping

Prerequisite: HVAC101 & HVAC102. Boiler systems are a prominent heat source in almost every region in the United States. Technicians install and maintain residential and light commercial hydronic systems. This course provides the theory and hands-on projects necessary to expose the student to common practices in the area of boilers and piping. The focus is on the boiler's main components, circulation pumps, system design, terminal units, pipe sizing, sizing fittings, system friction, sizing the circulator pump, accessories, controls, preventive maintenance, and troubleshooting.

The advanced HVAC courses are designed to further a technician's knowledge and skill set after completion of the HVAC Installer/Servicer Program. The advanced elective courses are optional and can be taken immediately after completing the 8-month program or at a future date.

When it comes to technical schools in St. Louis, American Trade School stands out as a pioneer providing hands-on education to equip you with the skills employers value. We've established strong relationships with industry professionals in the Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, and Electrical trades.

Hands-On Learning. Our programs emphasize hands-on training, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. This approach enhances your confidence and job readiness.

Small Class Sizes. With fewer students in the class, instructors can provide more individualized attention to each student. This leads to tailored instruction and support.

Experienced Instructors. Our experienced instructors bring real-world experience to the classroom. This ensures you receive practical insights and guidance that goes beyond textbooks.

Career-Focused Curriculum. Our curriculum is carefully designed to align with industry standards and trends. This means you'll graduate with the knowledge and skills employers are actively seeking.

Career Services. Our commitment to your success doesn't end with graduation. Our career services department assists in finding job opportunities and preparing for interviews.

HVAC apprenticeship. Our Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Installer/Servicer program is recognized by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America, St. Louis as well as the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Apprenticeship.

Prerequisite: HVAC101 & HVAC102. This advanced elective course is taken after completing the 8-month HVAC Installer/Servicer Program, immediately or at a future date.

Students enrolling at American Trade School for regular programs must be 17 ½ years old. In addition, prospective students must have a valid high school diploma or a high school equivalency certificate (GED/HiSET).

Academic qualifications are important. Equally important, student motivation and personal interest for success in a chosen career field is of high consideration. No student will be admitted until it is determined that he or she is capable of benefiting from the training.

American Trade School does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, age, sex, disability, national or ethnic origin in the administration of educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, or other school administered programs.

The advanced elective courses are optional and can be taken immediately after completing the 8-month program or at a future date.

Hybrid schedule. All classes meet Monday – Thursday: 2 days in-person / 2 days online.

Day classes: Monday – Thursday from 8:30am to 1:00pm. Evening classes: Monday – Thursday from 6:00pm to 10:30pm.

Classes are not held on New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King’s Birthday, President’s Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Tuition and fees. From the school’s Tuition Information Sheet (Rev 09/18/2025; prices are subject to change):

• HVAC 104 - Boilers & Piping (elective), 8 weeks: tuition $2,950.00, registration fee $100.00, lab fee $1,500.00, books & supplies $125.00, estimated sales tax $14.05; total $4,689.05.

Optional costs (listed on the same sheet, not included in the totals above): HVAC Tools tool kit $2,552.41 plus estimated sales tax $280.46, total $2,832.87.

Paying for trade school. While federal financial aid (Title IV funding) is not available for our programs, we offer expanded financing options to help make tuition affordable for every student. American Trade School partners with Lumion, a trusted education financing provider, to offer students affordable trade school payment plans with interest rates ranging from 0% to 8%.

• Flexible payment terms to match your financial situation.
• Quick and easy application process with fast approval decisions.
• No prepayment penalties, so you can pay off your balance anytime.
• Low or no-interest options available.
• Not based on credit history, everyone is approved!

How to apply for financing. 1. Plan a visit to American Trade School to speak with an admissions representative to discuss your program and tuition. 2. Review Lumion financing options to choose the plan that best fits your needs. 3. Submit your Lumion application for a quick approval decision.

Tuition policy. Tuition may either be paid in full upon enrollment or complete payment must be accounted for on the Information Sheet for Student Tuition Financing (Tuition Proposal). If a student repeats any portion of the program, the student must pay the current tuition and fees applicable to such portion of the program.

Scholarships. The school lists the Mike Rowe Foundation, SkillPointe Foundation and Bring Back The Trades scholarships. American Trade School is also an approved training provider for Vocational Rehabilitation (VR).

Credit for previous training. Students with documented previous training or work experience may request credit and must pass the school-developed competency test with 70% or better; the non-refundable testing fee is $50.00 per test.

Our graduates are in demand by residential, commercial and refrigeration employers.

HVAC/R career pathways:

• HVAC Service Technician
• HVAC Installer
• Commercial Refrigeration
• Maintenance Technician
• Sheet Metal Worker
• Pipefitter

Our job placement advisors provide a combination of advising and skills assessment and help with resume writing and interviewing techniques. As a matter of ethics, no school can guarantee placement or starting salaries.

Placement assistance. Our job placement advisors provide a combination of advising and skills assessment. They will also help with resume writing and interviewing techniques. American Trade School strives to match graduates with employers based on qualifications and abilities. As a matter of ethics, no school can guarantee placement or starting salaries.

Housing. To accommodate students with housing needs, American Trade School will assist students with referrals to various property management companies and apartment complexes in the area.

Library resources. The library contains several computers with internet access and appropriate printed resources. Students will also have access to an online library called the Library and Information Resources Network (LIRN).

Student advising. All members of the administrative staff are available to any student needing assistance with personal, academic, vocational and/or financial problems. Parking is available for students.