Ottawa, Ontario’s HVAC industry continues to grow as demand rises for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration services across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Skilled HVAC technicians play an essential role in keeping buildings comfortable and efficient all year long—especially through Ottawa’s harsh winters and humid summers.
This comprehensive guide breaks down HVAC technician salary in Ottawa, ON for 2026, including average earnings, experience-based pay scales, key factors that influence salary, job trends, benefits, education and certification impacts, and comparisons with other Ontario cities. The goal is to provide practical, real-world insights to help you understand earning potential and career opportunities in this vital trade.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in Ottawa
HVAC technician salaries in Ottawa vary depending on experience, employer, and specialization. According to recent compensation data:
Estimated Salary Range (Annual)
| Experience Level | Annual Salary (CAD) | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | ~CAD $45,000 – $52,000 | ~$22 – $25/hr |
| Mid-Level | ~CAD $55,000 – $70,000 | ~$26 – $34/hr |
| Experienced | ~CAD $70,000 – $78,000+ | ~$34 – $38/hr |
Typical average HVAC technician salary in Ottawa:
👉 Around CAD $58,000 – $60,000 per year based on local reported averages.
Hourly wage data from local job postings suggests around CAD $35.14 per hour as a current typical rate in Ottawa.
HVAC Technician Salary by Experience
Experience plays a major role in earning potential.
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
Performs basic diagnostic work and maintenance assists
Works under supervision and support from skilled techs
Typical salary range: CAD $45,000 – $52,000
Hourly rate around $22 – $25/hr
Mid-Level (3–6 Years)
Handles full system installation, advanced diagnostics, repairs
Often works independently on residential and smaller commercial systems
Salary range: CAD $55,000 – $70,000
Senior / Experienced Technician (7+ Years)
Leads service teams, works on large commercial/industrial systems
Provides complex troubleshooting and project consultation
Salary may reach CAD $78,000 and above depending on role, company, and performance.
Some employers list even higher pay ranges on job postings, such as CAD $75K – $120K for experienced roles with greater responsibilities.
Factors That Influence HVAC Salary in Ottawa
Several elements impact HVAC technician earnings in Ottawa:
Experience and Skill Level: More years in the field usually result in higher pay.
Certifications and Licensing: Trade certifications (especially gas and refrigeration) improve employability and pay.
Work Setting: Residential, commercial, or industrial work can pay differently (larger systems often command higher wages).
Specializations: Expertise in energy-efficient systems, refrigeration, or automation can boost wages.
Employer Size & Benefits: Larger firms often offer more structured pay scales and benefits.
Additional compensation may include overtime, emergency pay, tool allowances, and bonuses in some workplaces.
Job Market Trends in Ottawa
The HVAC job market in Ottawa for 2026 looks steady with several emerging trends:
Rising need for energy-efficient HVAC installations as buildings seek sustainability and lower utility costs.
Growth in retrofit work on older buildings to meet updated environmental and energy codes.
Continued demand for skilled technicians due to cyclical climate needs (cold winters, warm summers).
Expansion of smart HVAC technologies that require integration with building automation systems.
Overall, technicians with updated tech skills and certifications remain in strong demand.
Benefits of Being an HVAC Technician in Ottawa
Working as an HVAC technician offers various advantages beyond base pay:
Stable demand throughout the year, regardless of economic shifts.
Opportunities for overtime and premium on-call pay during extreme weather.
Potential for career advancement into supervisory, estimator, or project management roles.
Many employers provide benefits packages, including health coverage, vacation, tool allowances, and pension plans.
Education and Certifications That Impact Salary
Formal training and certifications often lead to higher pay and better opportunities.
High‑Value Credentials
Red Seal Certification (Interprovincial Standards) – nationally recognized credential
Refrigeration & Gas Technician certifications – essential for HVAC work with gas and refrigerants
Trade School or College Diploma in HVACR or mechanical systems
These certifications demonstrate competence and can distinguish technicians in a competitive market. Advanced credentials often correlate with higher wages.
Example Career Path in Ottawa (Estimated Salaries)
| Career Stage | Typical Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Apprentice / Entry | ~$45,000 – $52,000 |
| Journeyperson / Mid‑Level | ~$55,000 – $70,000 |
| Senior Technician | ~$75,000 – $90,000+ |
This progression shows how experience and skill development positively affect long‑term earnings.
HVAC Salary Comparison: Other Ontario Cities
| City | Typical HVAC Technician Salary (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Ottawa, ON | ~$58,000 – $60,000 |
| Greater Toronto Area | Slightly higher ~ $60,000+ hourly rates |
| London, ON | Comparable to Ottawa & slightly below GTA averages |
| Mississauga, ON | Similar hourly rates to Ottawa |
Ottawa generally pays competitively within Ontario, though the Greater Toronto Area often offers slightly higher hourly rates on average.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians
The future for HVAC technicians in Ottawa remains strong. Demand is supported by:
Increasing construction and retrofit projects
Need for ongoing maintenance of existing systems
Growing emphasis on building energy performance
Expansion of environmentally friendly HVAC technologies
This outlook suggests solid job opportunities and potential for salary growth over time.
Key Takeaways
Average HVAC technician salary in Ottawa ranges ~CAD $58,000 – $60,000 annually with typical hourly wages around $35/hr.
Experience matters: Senior roles and specializations often command higher pay.
Trade certifications significantly enhance earning potential and job prospects.
Ottawa’s HVAC job market remains stable and growing, with steady demand for skilled trade professionals.
Compared to other Ontario cities, Ottawa offers competitive compensation, especially when considering cost of living.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a career as an HVAC technician in Ottawa, ON offers reliable demand, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth. With ongoing industry changes and advances in energy‑efficient technologies, technicians who invest in education and modern skills can position themselves for rewarding long‑term careers in this essential field.