These are five sample questions from Bryq’s HVAC Technician assessment, a job-specific test for hiring HVAC technicians, installers and service engineers. The full assessment covers five skills: HVAC installation, HVAC maintenance, HVAC repair, troubleshooting and performance testing. Questions combine technical knowledge with practical on-site scenarios, from installation procedures to diagnostic readings, each with four options and one correct answer.
HVAC Installation
Question
After connecting the refrigerant lines on a new split system, why must the lines be evacuated with a vacuum pump before refrigerant is released?
Select your answer
To remove air and moisture that would contaminate the system.
To confirm the factory refrigerant charge is correct.
To test the compressor’s start-up current draw.
To pre-cool the lines so the system reaches temperature faster.
WHY IS THIS THE CORECT ANSWER
Air and moisture left in the lines react with refrigerant and oil to form acids and non-condensable gases. These raise head pressure and damage the compressor. Pulling a deep vacuum, typically to 500 microns or below, removes them before the system is opened.
HVAC Maintenance
Question
During a spring maintenance visit, you find the condensate drain pan holding standing water and slime, although the drain line isn’t yet blocked. What is the best action?
Select your answer
Clean the pan and line, and add a treatment to prevent regrowth.
Note it for the next visit, since the line is still draining.
Raise the blower speed so the pan dries out faster.
Fit a larger drain pan to hold more condensate.
WHY IS THIS THE CORECT ANSWER
Standing water and biological growth are early signs of a developing clog. Left alone, the clog can lead to overflow, water damage and poor indoor air quality. Cleaning and treating the pan and line during maintenance prevents the failure rather than waiting for it.
HVAC Repair
Question
A condenser’s compressor hums but won’t start, then trips on overload. The run capacitor is visibly swollen. What is the most likely fix?
Select your answer
Replace the capacitor with one of the correct µF and voltage rating.
Add refrigerant, as a low charge prevents the compressor from starting.
Replace the contactor, as its contacts aren’t closing fully.
Replace the compressor, as humming means its windings have failed.
WHY IS THIS THE CORECT ANSWER
A compressor that hums but won’t start is receiving power but lacks the extra starting torque the capacitor provides. A swollen capacitor has failed, so it should be replaced with one matching the specified capacitance and voltage before the compressor is condemned.
Troubleshooting
Question
A gas furnace lights, runs for a few seconds, then shuts down and repeats the cycle. What should the technician check first?
Select your answer
The flame sensor, for dirt or oxidation.
The blower motor capacitor.
The gas valve outlet pressure.
The thermostat’s heat anticipator setting.
WHY IS THIS THE CORECT ANSWER
If the burners light but shut off within seconds, the control board isn’t detecting a flame. A dirty or oxidized flame sensor is the most common cause and is quick to clean, so it’s checked before more complex components.
Performance Testing
Question
What does a high total external static pressure reading on an air handler most often indicate?
Select your answer
Airflow restriction, such as a dirty filter, coil or undersized ducts.
Ductwork that is larger than the system needs.
Low supply voltage to the blower motor.
An overcharge of refrigerant in the system.
