As demand for skilled trades continues to rise in British Columbia, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) technicians in Surrey, BC are seeing competitive wages and strong career prospects. Surrey’s growing residential and commercial sectors, combined with a rising need for energy-efficient systems, make it an attractive place for HVAC professionals.
This comprehensive guide will break down HVAC technician salary in Surrey, BC for 2026, covering average pay, experience levels, influencing factors, job market trends, benefits, certifications, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in Surrey, BC
HVAC technicians in Surrey typically earn more than the provincial average, reflecting strong demand and cost of living in the Lower Mainland.
Typical Salary Ranges
| Salary Metric | Annual / Hourly |
|---|---|
| Entry base (Glassdoor estimate) | ~CA$67K–$75K /yr |
| Average Base Pay (Glassdoor) | ~CA$85,000 /yr (~$41/hr) |
| Higher Range (Employer data) | Up to ~CA$108,000 /yr (~$52/hr) |
| Alternative Indeed Employer Range | ~CA$106,877 /yr (avg at one company) |
| Hourly Averages (Indeed reporting) | ~CA$48.20/hr in average market data |
Estimated average HVAC technician salary in Surrey, BC (2026):
👉 Approximately CA$80,000–$90,000 per year depending on experience and role.
HVAC Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly influences how much HVAC techs earn in Surrey.
Entry-Level Technicians (0–2 Years)
Performs basic installation, maintenance, and assistive tasks
Works under supervision
Typical salary: CA$60,000–$70,000 /yr
Hourly: ~$30–$36/hr
Mid-Level Technicians (3–7 Years)
Handles diagnostics, repairs, and independent jobs
May work on larger residential or light commercial systems
Typical salary: CA$75,000–$90,000 /yr
Hourly: ~$36–$45/hr
Senior Technicians / Leads (7+ Years)
Supervises teams, takes on complex commercial systems
Can earn above CA$100,000+ annually based on company and union pay scales
Hourly: ~$45–$52/hr+
Some employers in Surrey offer top wages in the range of $57–$65/hr or more for highly skilled or specialized technicians with leadership responsibilities.
Key Factors That Influence HVAC Salaries
Several elements impact HVAC compensation in Surrey:
Experience and skill level — senior techs earn significantly more
Certifications and licenses — Red Seal, gas fitting, refrigeration tickets, etc.
Type of work — residential, commercial, HVAC/R refrigeration
Employer type — union, large contractor, or private service company
Seasonal & emergency work — overtime and on-call pay
Specialization — complex control systems and energy-efficient tech
Certified technicians and those with advanced qualifications typically command higher pay, especially in commercial and industrial roles.
Job Market Trends in Surrey, BC
The HVAC job market in Surrey remains strong due to:
Significant residential and commercial construction growth
Rising demand for energy-efficient HVAC systems
Increasing need for HVAC maintenance and retrofitting
Technological adoption of smart HVAC controls and systems
Employment opportunities are present across maintenance, installation, service, and system upgrades segments. The ongoing push toward sustainable, low-emission buildings is also fueling more jobs in HVAC roles.
Benefits of Working as an HVAC Technician in Surrey
Beyond salaries, HVAC techs often enjoy:
Health, dental, and extended benefits
Paid vacation and statutory holidays
Company vehicles and travel allowances
Overtime and emergency call pay
Retirement plans (RRSP matching in some companies)
Skill advancement and certification support
Some employers in the Surrey/Lower Mainland region also provide performance bonuses and ongoing training programs.
Certifications and Training That Boost Pay
Certifications can play a big role in salary growth:
High-Impact Certifications
Red Seal Endorsement (HVAC/R) – nationally recognized
Gas Fitter Certification (B or A Ticket)
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Certification
Commercial HVAC/R Specialties
Safety and Technical Training Programs
Education and Formal Training
| Level | Impact on Salary |
|---|---|
| Trade Certificate / Apprenticeship | Entry to mid pay |
| Red Seal & Gas Fitting | +15–30% |
| Advanced HVAC/R or Controls | +30% or more |
Technicians with both practical experience and advanced certification usually see faster salary progression.
Edmonton vs. Nearby Cities: HVAC Salary Comparison
| Location | Approx Hourly Avg (BC market) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Surrey, BC | ~$48/hr | Among highest in Lower Mainland |
| Vancouver, BC | ~$48/hr | Comparable to Surrey |
| Burnaby, BC | ~$47/hr | Slightly lower average |
| Victoria, BC | ~$46/hr | Historic housing/cost adjustments |
| Delta, BC | ~$45/hr | Smaller market but close pay |
Surrey stands competitive with Vancouver and Burnaby, offering strong pay for HVAC technicians without the premium cost often found in central Vancouver.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in Surrey
The need for HVAC professionals is expected to stay high through 2026 due to:
Ongoing construction and urban expansion
Retrofitting and maintenance of existing buildings
Energy-efficiency regulatory requirements
Replacement of older HVAC systems with modern technology
Career stability is excellent for technicians who keep skills current and pursue advanced training.
How to Grow Your HVAC Career and Earnings
Here are key tips to increase your salary:
Complete Red Seal certification
Earn Gas Fitter and Refrigeration tickets
Gain hands-on experience in diverse systems
Pursue specialization (commercial, controls)
Take on on-call and overtime shifts
Develop customer and communication skills
Consider supervisory or project lead roles
Conclusion
HVAC Technician Salary in Surrey, BC for 2026 reflects a strong wage landscape driven by demand, experience, and technical skill. With average earnings in the CA$80,000–$90,000+ range and top performers exceeding six figures, HVAC remains a lucrative and stable career choice—especially for certified technicians willing to specialize and grow.
If you want a quick comparison tailored to specific experience brackets (entry vs senior) or advice on certification paths, I can build that for you too!