If you’re exploring a career as an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) technician in London, Ontario, understanding salary potential and job outlook is crucial. Southwestern Ontario’s growing economy, climate needs, and diverse building stock create solid demand for HVAC professionals. This guide provides a detailed look at HVAC technician salary in London, ON for 2026, including average earnings, experience levels, key influencing factors, certifications, trends, and how London compares with nearby Ontario cities.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in London, ON
HVAC technician earnings in London are influenced by experience level, certifications, sector, and individual employer. According to multiple local salary surveys:
Salary Overview
| Salary Measure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Hourly Pay | Approximately CA$36.07/hr (reported average) |
| Typical Annual Range | CA$45,000 – CA$72,000+ |
| Average Annual Base Pay (Glassdoor) | ~CA$57,000 |
| Job Listings Typical Range | CA$35 – CA$42/hr |
Estimated annual salary for an HVAC technician in London, ON:
👉 Around CA$50,000–CA$70,000 annually based on experience and certifications.
London’s hourly rates are roughly on par with or slightly above regional averages for Ontario trades due to market demand and the cost of living.
Salary by Experience
Experience makes a significant impact on earnings:
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
Performs basic installation, maintenance, and repair tasks.
Learning workplace safety, tools, and diagnostics.
Typical pay: CA$22 – CA$30/hr for apprentices and early techs.
Annual estimate: CA$40,000 – CA$55,000
Mid-Level (3–6 Years)
Strong independent skills, troubleshooting, complete installations.
Can handle residential and some commercial systems.
Typical pay: CA$30 – CA$42/hr.
Annual estimate: CA$55,000 – CA$70,000
Senior / Advanced (7+ Years)
High-skill work, leadership, complex commercial jobs.
May include supervisory roles.
Top local salaries reported up to CA$70,000–CA$75,000+ regularly; some advanced roles can pay higher in specialized fields.
Note: Job postings in the London area show senior technician positions offering higher pay when specialized certifications (e.g., Gas Technician, 313A/313D Refrigeration) are held.
Key Factors Influencing HVAC Salaries in London, ON
Several elements shape how much HVAC techs earn:
Certifications & Licenses – Gas Technician (G1/G2), Refrigeration (313A/313D), and Ozone Depletion Prevention cards can significantly boost pay.
Experience Level – More years of hands-on work means higher pay.
Type of Work – Commercial/industrial often pays more than residential.
Employer Size – Larger employers may offer better benefits and scale pay higher.
Union vs Non-Union – Union roles often include better compensation packages.
Certifications and Education
Certifications matter a lot in Canada’s HVAC industry:
Valuable Credentials
Gas Technician Certificate (G1, G2)
Refrigeration Trades Qualification (313A/313D)
Ozone Depletion Prevention (ODP) Certification
Red Seal Endorsement (interprovincial certification)
Education and Training
| Level | Impact on Salary |
|---|---|
| High School + Apprenticeship | Basic entry pay |
| Trade Diploma or College HVAC Program | +10–20% potential |
| Red Seal Qualification | +15–30% potential |
Investing in training and licensed certifications often leads to higher wage tiers and more opportunities, particularly in commercial or industrial settings.
Job Market Trends in London
The HVAC job market in London, ON is influenced by both regional growth and technical demand:
Steady Residential and Commercial Construction – Continual development supports ongoing service and installation jobs.
Energy Efficiency and Regulations – Technicians familiar with high-efficiency systems and regulatory standards are in greater demand.
Aging Building Stock – Older HVAC units frequently require repair or replacement work.
Employer Demand – Multiple job listings around CA$35–$42/hr show companies actively hiring.
Southwestern Ontario’s broader economic environment supports trades growth, though London’s wages tend to be somewhat lower than larger hubs like Toronto.
Benefits Beyond Salary
HVAC technicians often receive benefits in addition to pay:
Health and dental plans (with many employers)
Retirement savings plans (RRSP matching)
Paid time off and vacation
Company tools or vehicle allowances
Overtime and emergency call premiums
Training and certification support
Employment packages vary by employer, but many trades jobs include competitive benefits alongside wages.
HVAC Salary Comparison: Nearby Ontario Cities
| City | Typical Hourly Pay | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| London, ON | CA$35 – CA$42/hr | CA$50,000 – CA$70,000+ |
| Greater Toronto Area | CA$36 – CA$38/hr | CA$55,000 – CA$75,000 |
| Mississauga, ON | CA$35 – CA$36/hr | CA$50,000 – CA$72,000 |
| Vaughan, ON | CA$34 – CA$36/hr | CA$48,000 – CA$70,000 |
London’s pay rates are competitive within Southwestern Ontario but generally slightly below the highest wages found in the Greater Toronto Area, where demand and cost of living are higher.
Job Outlook and Career Trends
Looking toward 2026 and beyond, the HVAC field in London, ON is expected to remain stable:
Consistent Climate-Driven Demand – Canadian winters and warm summers require reliable HVAC services year-round.
Technological Evolution – Smart and energy-efficient systems demand advanced skills.
Growth in Commercial Projects – New developments increase demand for skilled technicians.
With ongoing infrastructure needs and retrofit projects, job stability for HVAC technicians in London is strong.
Tips to Boost Your HVAC Career and Salary
Earn key certifications early (Gas Technician, Refrigeration)
Gain diverse experience across residential and commercial systems
Stay current with new HVAC technologies (e.g., smart thermostats, heat pumps)
Seek additional certifications like Red Seal for mobility and higher pay
Network with local HVAC firms and consider union work for benefits
Conclusion
The HVAC technician salary in London, ON for 2026 demonstrates solid earning potential for skilled tradespeople. With a typical range of CA$50,000 to CA$70,000+ annually, pay depends heavily on experience, certifications, and the type of work performed. Continuous demand, coupled with opportunities for certification and specialization, makes HVAC a promising career path in London and Southwestern Ontario.