OPA Rebate Program

[bunky]

Hi everyone,

I recently opened a small company where my techs and I all hold G2 certification.  I want to apply for the rebate programs through Cool Savings, however for the air conditioning portion they tell me I must hold a air conditioning license to be eligible.  From what I am told very few contractors have this license and only have their G2.  So do I need this license, or can I get around when applying for the program?

Are there any contractors here that use this program, that can give me some insight?

Many thanks

[Admin]

If you're a contractor and want to participate in the COOL SAVINGS REBATE Program, here are the guidelines:

For ECM-equipped furnace installations: TSSA Registration number to confirm licensed technicians (Gas Technician 1 or 2 or OBT 1 or 2 certification number).

For ENERGY STAR® qualified CAC system replacements: 313A Refrigeration and Air Conditioning license or a 313D Residential Air Conditioning License.

Minimum of $2 Million in liability insurance coverage

Letter of clearance from WSIB. (If you're a sole proprietor, then you're WSIB exempt.)

To participate, please contact Michelle Grenier at mgrenier@hrai.ca, or call 1-800-267-2231 ext. 248.

And just so you know, you are required to hold 2 licenses/certificates to work on air conditioning equipment in Ontario.

You need an ODP card to purchase or handle refrigerant, as per O. Reg 189/94.

You also need a certificate of qualification, either a 313A or 313D, to install, service, alter or repair air conditioning equipment, as per O. Reg 75/05.  It's a common misconception that the ODP card is all that is needed to do A/C work.

We all know the ODP is a useless certificate.  HRAI no longer requires class time to update; they just want your money.
As far as the 313A or 313D goes, there is really no one to enforce the regulation.  You will need it to become registered with the OPA.

Keep in mind your biggest rebates will come from the Eco-Energy rebate program - Here

The Ontario Regulations are available for download on the main page - Here

Also I recommend donating $20 to get access to the 313D exam.  Just backdoor the apprentiship program.  Get a licensed mechanic to write off your 4500 hrs and challenge the exam for $100.  You have to call the Ministry to get the proper paperwork, and to book the exam.  The Ottawa office phone number is 613-731-7100.  Just tell them you need a residential air conditioning mechanic supervisor's assessment of skill sets document, and you need the competency analysis profile form.

Good Luck!

[bunky]

Great information.  Unfortunately I don't know anyone that can write me off with the hours.  They did say all I have to show is that I have been in the business for a couple of years.  Which would equal the hours required.  I was working in Florida for a few of years with my father in the service and installation of air conditioners, hopefully that will be enough for them.  I will certainly make a donation to get the 313D sample test.  I did donate before for the G2 exam and it did help. 

Just an after thought.  Is there any kind souls that would write me off to show the 4500hours needed, in case they don't except my information?

Many thanks..

[john]

If you're a contractor and want to participate in the COOL SAVINGS REBATE Program, here are the guidelines:

For ECM-equipped furnace installations: TSSA Registration number to confirm licensed technicians (Gas Technician 1 or 2 or OBT 1 or 2 certification number).

For ENERGY STAR® qualified CAC system replacements: 313A Refrigeration and Air Conditioning license or a 313D Residential Air Conditioning License.

Minimum of $2 Million in liability insurance coverage

Letter of clearance from WSIB. (If you're a sole proprietor, then you're WSIB exempt.)

To participate, please contact Michelle Grenier at mgrenier@hrai.ca, or call 1-800-267-2231 ext. 248.

And just so you know, you are required to hold 2 licenses/certificates to work on air conditioning equipment in Ontario.

You need an ODP card to purchase or handle refrigerant, as per O. Reg 189/94.

You also need a certificate of qualification, either a 313A or 313D, to install, service, alter or repair air conditioning equipment, as per O. Reg 75/05.  It's a common misconception that the ODP card is all that is needed to do A/C work.

We all know the ODP is a useless certificate.  HRAI no longer requires class time to update; they just want your money.
As far as the 313A or 313D goes, there is really no one to enforce the regulation.  You will need it to become registered with the OPA.

Keep in mind your biggest rebates will come from the Eco-Energy rebate program - Here

The Ontario Regulations are available for download on the main page - Here

Also I recommend donating $20 to get access to the 313D exam.  Just backdoor the apprenticeship program.  Get a licensed mechanic to write off your 4500 hrs and challenge the exam for $100.  You have to call the Ministry to get the proper paperwork, and to book the exam.  The Ottawa office phone number is 613-731-7100.  Just tell them you need a residential air conditioning mechanic supervisor's assessment of skill sets document, and you need the competency analysis profile form.

Good Luck!

Does anybody has access to the 313A exam?

[Admin]

Does anybody has access to the 313A exam?

No, sorry.