When I first came to Canada from Punjab in 2023, I didn’t even know what HVAC stood for. Fast forward to today, I’m a certified Gas Technician working in Windsor, Ontario, with hands-on experience in residential HVAC systems. In this post, I’m not just answering the question “Are HVAC technicians in demand?” — I’m sharing my personal journey, local market insights, and real-world advice to help you understand why HVAC might be the career for you.
Key Takeaways:
- HVAC technicians are consistently in demand across Canada, especially during seasonal peaks.
- Windsor, Ontario has a strong HVAC job market driven by older systems and extreme weather.
- Getting certified (G3, G2, 313D) opens the door to higher pay and long-term career stability.
- Government rebates on heat pumps and smart thermostats are creating new job opportunities.
- Your journey can start with a single phone call – just like mine did.
From Janitor to HVAC: How It All Began
I came to Canada in April 2023 as an international student. Like many, I had to find a way to pay for my tuition fees on my own. My first job was as a janitor, traveling from Windsor to Leamington twice a week. I was waking up at 4 a.m. just to catch the bus. Then came a short gig at FedEx Ground – better, but still not enough hours.
One random day at a bus stop, I saw a Kijiji ad: “Need a Helper.” I called the number instantly. That call changed my life. My future boss picked up (half asleep!) and gave me a chance. I didn’t even know what HVAC was back then – all I knew was that I needed the job. Within a few weeks, I was learning everything on the job, thanks to a mentor who truly shaped my journey.
Cracking the Code: What is HVAC?
Back in India, we only know “AC technician” – the word “HVAC” doesn’t really exist. It took me almost two months into the job to realize HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. That’s when my interest started growing.
Getting Certified: My G3 Story
Everyone kept saying it takes 5–7 years to get licensed. That scared me. But my mentor told me that his last helper got licensed by doing online G3 classes. That lit a spark.
I searched online, found a G3 program, and asked my boss to help with tuition. He paid the fee, and I returned it to him in $200 monthly installments. I studied for 8–10 months, passed my TSSA exam, and officially became a Gas Technician 3.
So, Are HVAC Technicians in Demand?
Absolutely. After getting experience and certification, I applied to a bigger company. Within a week, I cracked two rounds of interviews and got hired. That’s how real the demand is.
Busy Seasons in HVAC
The summer season – June through mid-August – is peak time. That’s when ACs break down and companies need extra hands. You get urgent calls, long hours, and lots of overtime.
If you’re starting out, don’t expect high pay right away. In fact, factory workers may earn more than entry-level HVAC techs. But the long-term potential is way better once you move up.
Ontario-Specific Demand (Especially Windsor)
In Windsor, many homes still run on older systems with R-22 refrigerant, which has been phased out in Canada since 2020. That means when these systems fail, they need to be replaced, not repaired – and that creates ongoing demand.
Plus, Windsor’s extreme weather makes HVAC a must. There’s no off-season here.
Heat Pumps & Green Tech: A Boost to the Trade
In 2023, the government introduced rebates on heat pump installations and smart thermostats, covering up to 80-90% of the cost. That led to a huge spike in installations.
We were installing 1–2 heat pumps every day. The demand was insane, and every job needed a licensed technician. If you’re thinking long-term, this is where the trade is headed.
Want to Enter the Field? Here’s My Advice:
- Start with G3, then move to G2 and eventually 313D/313A if you want commercial jobs.
- Apply early in the year (Feb/March) to get hired before the summer rush.
- Be ready to learn hands-on every single day.
- Don’t come in for the quick money. It’s a skill trade that pays off with time.
- Stay humble and hungry. The work will teach you everything.
Final Thoughts: A Career That Pays You Back
I started without even knowing what HVAC meant. Today, I know furnaces, air conditioners, water heaters, thermostats, and more. This trade gave me a stable income, real skills, and a future.
If you’re asking, “Are HVAC technicians in demand?” – my answer is simple: Yes. 100%. And if you give it time, the trade will reward you.
Want to get into HVAC?
Follow my journey on Instagram @jassbahra13, where I showcase real HVAC installations, tips, and behind-the-scenes from the field. Let’s grow together!