How to Hire a HVAC Contractor in Ontario
Your HVAC system is the biggest mechanical investment in your home. Hiring the wrong contractor can mean an improperly sized system, unsafe gas work, voided warranties, and thousands in wasted energy costs. Here is how to hire right.
Hiring Checklist
Red Flags to Watch For
Quotes without visiting your home
No legitimate HVAC contractor can properly size a system without assessing your home in person.
Only offers rental/lease options
Some companies push 10–16 year equipment leases that cost 40–60% more than buying. Always get a purchase quote too.
Not TSSA registered
Gas appliance work by unregistered technicians is illegal and dangerous. Verify at tssa.org.
Will not specify the equipment brand/model
Vague quotes with “high-efficiency furnace” but no brand/model make comparison impossible.
Extreme low or high pressure
Either an unrealistically low price (corners will be cut) or high-pressure “sign today” tactics are red flags.
No mention of permits
Gas appliance installations require TSSA permits. If the contractor does not mention them, ask why.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring
\u201cAre you TSSA registered for gas work?\u201d
\u201cWill you do a heat loss calculation?\u201d
\u201cWhat brand and model are you quoting?\u201d
\u201cWhat rebates does this system qualify for?\u201d
\u201cWhat is your labour warranty?\u201d
Licensing: Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA)
TSSA regulates fuel-burning equipment in Ontario, including furnaces, water heaters, and gas fireplaces. All technicians working on gas appliances must be TSSA-registered. You can verify any contractor on the TSSA website.
Verify at Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) \u2192Frequently Asked Questions
Do HVAC contractors need a TSSA licence?
For any gas appliance work, yes. Electrical-only HVAC work (heat pumps, AC) does not require TSSA but does require an ESA licence.
Should I rent or buy my furnace?
Buying is almost always cheaper long-term. A $4,000–$8,500 purchase typically costs $7,000–$14,000 over a 10–16 year rental contract.
How do I know what size furnace I need?
A proper heat loss calculation factors in your home’s size, insulation, windows, and climate zone. Do not trust estimates based on square footage alone.
What AFUE rating should I look for?
Ontario’s building code requires 95%+ AFUE for new installations. Higher ratings (98%) cost more upfront but qualify for more rebates.
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