The HVAC industry remains one of the most stable and rewarding trades in Vancouver, British Columbia. With ongoing residential and commercial construction, increased focus on energy efficiency, and a growing need for environmental comfort systems, HVAC technicians are in demand — and their pay reflects it. This article breaks down the HVAC technician salary in Vancouver, BC for 2026, including average pay, experience‑based earnings, influencing factors, job trends, benefits, certifications, and comparison with nearby cities.
Average HVAC Technician Salary in Vancouver, BC
HVAC technicians in Vancouver earn salaries that are above the provincial and national averages, due to high demand for skilled trades and the city’s cost of living.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Salary Level | Annual Salary (CAD) | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Entry‑Level | CAD $50,000 – $60,000 | ~$24 – $29/hr |
| Mid‑Level | CAD $60,000 – $80,000 | ~$29 – $38/hr |
| Senior / Experienced | CAD $80,000 – $100,000+ | ~$38 – $48+/hr |
Typical HVAC technician salary in Vancouver (average): Approximately CAD $77,000 per year based on reported data.
Glassdoor’s latest estimates for 2026 place the typical range between CAD $63,717 and CAD $93,698 annually, with an average around CAD $77,267. Top earners can make above CAD $100,000.
HVAC Technician Salary by Experience
Experience has a major impact on earnings in the HVAC field:
Entry‑Level (0–2 Years)
Assists in basic installation and maintenance tasks
Works under supervision on residential systems
Approximate salary: CAD $50,000 – $60,000
Hourly: ~$24 – $29/hr
Mid‑Level (3–6 Years)
Independently handles repair, diagnostics, and installations
Some exposure to commercial systems
Approximate salary: CAD $60,000 – $80,000
Hourly: ~$29 – $38/hr
Senior / Experienced (7+ Years)
Manages complex systems, commercial projects, and leads teams
May include supervisory roles and specialized tasks
Approximate salary: CAD $80,000 – $100,000+
Hourly: ~$38 – $48+/hr
Some senior roles — especially with additional certifications or union positions — can go even higher, into the range of CAD $100,000+.
Factors That Influence HVAC Earnings in Vancouver
Several key elements affect how much a technician earns:
Experience & Skill Level: More experience often means higher pay
Certifications & Licensing: Advanced credentials can boost earnings
Sector (Residential vs Commercial): Commercial jobs usually pay more
Seasonality: Peak summer/winter increases demand and overtime opportunities
Employer Type: Larger contractors, government or union jobs may offer higher wages
Specializations: Skills in energy‑efficient systems or controls increase value
Unionized HVAC roles in the region can offer even higher pay with benefits factored into the wage packages.
Job Market Trends in Vancouver, BC
The HVAC job market in Vancouver remains strong and competitive:
Growing Urban Development: New residential and commercial construction supports stable HVAC demand.
Energy Efficiency Focus: Technicians familiar with energy‑saving systems and heat pumps are highly valued.
Smart HVAC Technologies: Demand for technicians who understand automation and smart systems is increasing.
Maintenance & Retrofit Work: Older building upgrades and regular service needs create ongoing job opportunities.
Technicians with flexible availability and broad technical skills are particularly attractive to employers.
Benefits of Being an HVAC Technician
Aside from competitive salaries, HVAC technicians in Vancouver enjoy a range of benefits:
Health and Dental Insurance
Retirement Benefits and Pension Contributions
Paid Vacation and Statutory Holidays
Overtime and Call‑Out Pay
Company Vehicles and Tool Allowances
Professional Development Support
Many employers also reimburse certification costs, which helps technicians grow their credentials and earnings.
Certifications and Education That Impact Salary
Certifications are a major driver of higher pay in the HVAC field. In Canada, these often include:
Valuable Certifications
Red Seal Endorsement (HVAC / Refrigeration)
Gas Fitter Certification (B Level)
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Certifications
Control Systems / Smart HVAC Training
Education & Training Pathway
| Education / Training | Typical Impact on Salary |
|---|---|
| Trade School / College HVAC Diploma | Entry to mid‑range |
| Red Seal Endorsement | +10–20% potential earnings |
| Advanced Specialty Certifications | Significant boost |
Employers look for certifications because they signal competence in safe, reliable work, especially for gas appliances and refrigeration systems.
How to Boost Your HVAC Career and Salary
To increase earning potential as an HVAC technician in Vancouver:
Complete formal HVAC training or apprenticeship
Earn Red Seal or Gas Fitter certifications
Gain experience in both residential and commercial systems
Learn smart and energy‑efficient HVAC technologies
Seek overtime and emergency call rotations
Pursue leadership, supervisory, or specialized roles
HVAC Salaries Compared with Nearby Cities
| City / Region | Approx. Average HVAC Salary |
|---|---|
| Vancouver, BC | CAD ~$77,000/yr |
| Surrey, BC | Slightly higher ~$78,000/yr (most reported) |
| Burnaby, BC | Around ~$75,000/yr |
| Victoria, BC | Around ~$72,000/yr |
| Delta, BC | Around ~$70,000/yr |
Vancouver and nearby municipalities generally offer some of the highest HVAC wages in British Columbia.
Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians in 2026
The demand for HVAC technicians in Vancouver and across BC is expected to remain strong due to:
Continued building and retrofit projects
Focus on sustainable and efficient heating/cooling solutions
Increasing adoption of heat pumps and refrigerant systems
Consistent maintenance and service contract needs
Even with periodic slowdowns in construction, the service side of HVAC tends to remain steady, offering reliability in job opportunities.
Final Thoughts
In 2026, Vancouver, BC continues to be a solid location for HVAC technicians who seek competitive salaries, steady job prospects, and opportunities for growth. With the right certifications, hands‑on experience, and willingness to adapt to evolving technologies, HVAC professionals can build long‑term careers with strong financial rewards.