What certifications should an HVAC technician have?

In Ottawa, HVAC technicians must have TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority) certification to legally work on gas appliances and heating systems in Ontario.

For gas work specifically, HVAC technicians need either G1 or G2 gas technician certification from TSSA. G2 technicians can work on smaller residential appliances like furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces, while G1 technicians can handle larger commercial and industrial gas systems. Most residential HVAC work in Ottawa requires at least G2 certification.

You can verify any technician's TSSA certification by searching their name or company on the TSSA website at tssa.org. This lookup tool shows their certification level, expiry date, and any restrictions on their license. Never hire someone who can't provide proof of current TSSA certification for gas work.

Beyond TSSA gas certification, reputable HVAC contractors in Ottawa should also have their Ontario electrical license or work with licensed electricians, since most modern HVAC systems involve electrical connections. For refrigeration work, they need an Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) certificate to handle refrigerants legally.

Additional certifications that indicate quality training include manufacturer-specific certifications from companies like Carrier, Lennox, or Trane, and HRAI (Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada) membership. While not legally required, these show the technician stays current with industry standards and new technology.

When hiring an HVAC contractor in Ottawa, also verify they carry WSIB coverage (check at wsib.ca/clearances) and liability insurance. For any furnace installation, replacement, or gas line work, they'll need to pull permits through the City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) and arrange TSSA inspections.

Red flags include technicians who can't show current TSSA certification, offer to skip permits, or pressure you to pay everything upfront. Always ask to see their certification card and verify it online before any work begins.

For major HVAC installations like new furnaces or central air systems, expect the contractor to handle all permit applications and inspections as part of their service. The TSSA inspection typically costs around $100-200 and ensures your system meets Ontario safety codes.

Find verified HVAC contractors with proper certifications in our directory at ottawaconstructionnetwork.com/directory, where all listed professionals have been pre-screened for licensing and insurance requirements.