What is the difference between G1, G2, and G3 gas technician licenses?

In Ontario, G1, G2, and G3 gas technician licenses represent different levels of certification through TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority), with each allowing different types of gas work on your Ottawa home.

The main differences break down by complexity and system size:

G3 License (Basic Level)
G3 technicians can work on smaller residential gas appliances and basic installations. This includes connecting and servicing gas ranges, dryers, barbecues, and other smaller appliances. They can also work on simple gas piping for these appliances. Most basic gas appliance service calls in Ottawa neighborhoods like Kanata or Barrhaven would fall under G3 work.

G2 License (Intermediate Level)
G2 technicians have broader authority and can handle more complex residential and light commercial gas systems. This includes installing and servicing furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, and more complex gas piping systems. They can work on larger residential projects and multi-unit buildings. Most gas furnace installations or replacements in Ottawa homes require a G2-certified technician.

G1 License (Advanced Level)
G1 technicians can work on all types of gas systems, including large commercial and industrial installations. They can handle high-pressure systems, complex commercial equipment, and specialized industrial gas applications. For typical Ottawa homeowners, you'd rarely need G1-level work unless you have a very large home with complex systems or commercial property.

What This Means for Ottawa Homeowners

When hiring for common residential gas work in Ottawa - like furnace installation, water heater replacement, or gas line installation for a kitchen renovation - you'll typically need a G2-certified technician. For simple appliance connections, G3 may be sufficient.

Verification is Critical
Always verify your technician's TSSA certification at tssa.org before work begins. The technician should provide their TSSA card and pull proper permits through the City of Ottawa when required. Gas work without proper certification and permits can void your home insurance and create serious safety hazards.

Ottawa Permit Requirements
Most gas appliance installations require both TSSA certification and a City of Ottawa mechanical permit. Contact Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424 to confirm permit requirements for your specific project. Permit fees typically range from $100-300 for residential gas work.

Remember, legitimate gas technicians will always be happy to show their TSSA certification and explain what level of work they're qualified to perform on your Ottawa property.