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 refrigeration systems in Ontario.

For gas work specifically, your HVAC contractor needs either G1 or G2 gas technician certification from TSSA. G2 technicians can work on smaller residential systems (under 400,000 BTU/hour), while G1 technicians are certified for larger commercial and industrial systems. Most residential furnace installations, repairs, and gas line connections require at least G2 certification.

If your HVAC work involves refrigeration systems (heat pumps, air conditioning), the technician should hold an ODP (Ozone Depleting Substances) certificate, also issued by TSSA. This certification is required for anyone handling refrigerants in Ontario.

You can verify any HVAC technician's TSSA certification by searching their database at tssa.org. Simply enter the company name or technician's name to confirm their current certification status. This verification is crucial because uncertified gas work can void your insurance and create serious safety hazards.

For electrical components of HVAC systems, the contractor should either be a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) with ESA, or work with a certified electrician. You can verify electrical licensing at esasafe.com/contractor-locator.

Red flags to watch for: Any HVAC contractor who can't provide their TSSA certification number, offers to do gas work without permits, or quotes significantly below market rates. In Ottawa, expect to pay $3,000-$8,000 for furnace replacement, and legitimate contractors will always pull proper permits through the City of Ottawa (613-580-2424).

When getting quotes, ask to see their TSSA certificate, WSIB clearance (wsib.ca/clearances), and general liability insurance. A professional HVAC contractor will readily provide these credentials and explain the permit process for your specific project.

For complex installations like heat pump systems or gas line relocations, ensure your contractor coordinates with City of Ottawa Building Code Services for any required building permits beyond the TSSA gas permit.

Find verified HVAC contractors with proper TSSA certification in our directory at ottawaconstructionnetwork.com/directory.