Halifax, Nova Scotia, offers a growing market for skilled trades, including HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians. With the region’s changing climate, aging infrastructure, and increasing demand for energy-efficient systems, HVAC professionals are finding strong opportunities and competitive compensation in 2026.
This detailed article explores HVAC technician salary in Halifax, NS, including salary ranges, factors influencing pay, experience-based earnings, job trends, benefits, certifications that impact income, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in Halifax, NS
Salaries for HVAC technicians in Halifax vary by source and job specifics, but overall compensation is competitive for skilled trade roles.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Role / Source | Annual Salary (CAD) | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC Technician (Glassdoor estimate) | ~$40,659 – $62,383 typical range | ~$20 – $30/hr |
| HVAC & Refrigeration Technician (Glassdoor) | ~$40,659 – $62,383 | ~$20 – $30/hr |
| HVAC Mechanic III (more advanced skill level) | ~$72,574 – $104,063 median ~C$89,576 | ~$37–$50+/hr |
| Local job postings range | ~$32 – $55/hr employer-posted | ~$66,000 – $110,000+ depending on hours and experience |
Typical base average:
👉 Around ~C$45,000 – C$65,000 per year for standard HVAC technician roles in Halifax, with higher potential for advanced technician roles.
Note: Salary estimates differ across data sources due to sample size, job titles (service, HVAC/R, mechanic), and employer reporting.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a major role in HVAC technician earnings in Halifax.
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
Performs basic installation, maintenance, and repair
Works under supervision
Typical annual pay: ~C$40,000 – C$50,000
Hourly: ~C$20 – C$25/hr
Mid-Level (3–6 Years)
More complex diagnostics, independent work
May handle light commercial systems
Typical annual pay: ~C$50,000 – C$65,000
Hourly: ~C$25 – C$30/hr
Senior / Advanced Technician (7+ Years)
Leadership, troubleshooting, complex installations
Larger commercial and industrial system experience
Pay can exceed ~C$70,000+ and up to ~C$100,000+ for advanced titles like HVAC Mechanic III
What Influences HVAC Technician Salaries in Halifax
Several factors impact how much an HVAC technician earns in Halifax:
Experience & skill level – more years typically mean higher pay
Certifications & licenses – Red Seal, refrigeration certifications boost earnings
Type of work – residential vs commercial/industrial
Emergency or on-call availability – often offers overtime premiums
Employer size & sector – larger companies may pay more
Union agreements – local union wages may offer higher base rates
For example, employers may require Red Seal or Gas Fitter certifications, which can significantly increase earnings potential and job options.
Job Market Trends for HVAC Technicians in Halifax
Halifax’s HVAC job market remains driven by several trends:
Increasing construction and retrofit work – older buildings require updated HVAC systems
Focus on energy efficiency – demand for technicians skilled in efficient and environmentally friendly systems
Cold and variable climate – consistent year-round need for heating and cooling expertise
Growth in refrigeration and HVAC/R roles – especially in commercial sectors
Local job postings show employers offering hourly rates between C$32 – C$55/hr with benefits and advancement opportunities.
Benefits of Being an HVAC Technician in Halifax
HVAC technicians enjoy several non-salary benefits:
Health and dental insurance (depending on employer)
Paid time off and vacation benefits
Company-provided tools and vehicles for some roles
Overtime and on-call pay
Retirement and pension plans for union positions
Opportunities for career advancement into senior technician or supervisory roles
Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
Certifications are crucial in HVAC to enhance both skills and earnings.
High-Impact Certifications
Red Seal HVAC / Refrigeration Certification – recognized nationally
Gas Fitter A or B Certification – required for gas system work
Refrigeration and A/C Licenses – needed for HVAC/R roles
Electrical or controls credentials – useful for advanced troubleshooting
Education Level and Earnings
| Education / Credential | Typical Pay Impact |
|---|---|
| High school + apprenticeship | Entry-level pay |
| Technical diploma / HVAC trade certificate | Mid-range pay boost |
| Red Seal or specialized certification | Higher pay & broader job opportunities |
More certifications usually mean higher pay and a competitive edge in the job market.
Example Career Path in Halifax
Here’s how HVAC technician earnings can grow with experience:
Apprentice / Entry HVAC technician: ~C$40,000 – C$50,000
Experienced Service technician: ~C$50,000 – C$65,000
Senior Technician / HVAC/R specialist: ~C$70,000 – C$100,000+
Advanced roles (HVAC Mechanic III): ~$90,000+ median salary
HVAC Technician Salary Comparison — Other Cities
To put Halifax salaries into perspective, here’s how they compare with major Canadian cities:
| City | Typical HVAC Technician Salary |
|---|---|
| Halifax, NS | ~C$45,000 – C$65,000 + (higher with experience) |
| Toronto, ON | ~C$55,000 – C$75,000+ |
| Vancouver, BC | ~C$50,000 – C$72,000+ |
| Calgary, AB | ~C$52,000 – C$78,000+ |
Note: Salaries in larger cities typically trend higher due to cost of living and demand differences.
Job Outlook in Halifax
The job outlook for HVAC technicians in Halifax, NS remains stable and positive in 2026:
Continued residential and commercial construction
Ongoing maintenance and retrofits of older systems
Growth in energy-efficient HVAC technology
Need for HVAC/R specialists in commercial and industrial sectors
Technicians with advanced training, Red Seal certification, and experience are expected to see the best opportunities and wage growth.
Tips to Boost Your HVAC Career and Salary
Complete relevant certifications (Red Seal, refrigeration, gas fitter)
Gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships
Learn modern, energy-efficient HVAC technologies
Consider cross-training in electrical or controls systems
Pursue leadership or supervisory training
Conclusion
The HVAC technician salary in Halifax, NS for 2026 reflects a solid career path with good earning potential and strong demand. Entry-level technicians can expect steady wages, while experienced and certified professionals can earn significantly higher incomes. Halifax’s evolving job market, coupled with industry trends and certification opportunities, makes it a promising location for HVAC professionals.