RBQ Preparatory Training
15.4 – Hydronic Heating System Contractor
a training course lasting a total of 4 hours
This training program prepares contractors to perform installation, maintenance, and repair work on hydronic heating systems in accordance with the Act respecting Master Plumbers and the requirements of the RBQ. It also covers hydronic systems that incorporate propane burners, as well as work related to the components of subcategory 15.4.1.
Designed for those who wish to specialize in water-based heating and air conditioning systems, this training program provides the essential skills needed to work on residential, commercial, and institutional hydronic systems. It also covers the installation of combined heating and air conditioning systems when combined with the appropriate subcategories 15.9 or 15.10. A comprehensive program to excel in a technical field in high demand in Quebec.
- Available in French or English
- Support 24/7
- Exclusive benefits
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TRAINING RBQ PREPARATORY COURSE
The primary objective of this training is to enhance general knowledge of construction and enable contractors (or owner-builders) to apply best practices. More specifically, it aims to improve participants’ knowledge and reinforce the importance of effective project management for those responsible for carrying out construction work related to:
- The fundamentals of hydronic heating systems, including fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and the properties of fuels (natural gas, propane, and fuel oil).
- The legislative, regulatory, and standards framework, including the Quebec Building Code, the Pressure Vessel Act, and CSA and ASHRAE standards.
- Reading and interpreting plans, drawings, and specifications for hydronic systems, including preparing quantity surveys for material calculations.
- The proper execution of installation work (supply and distribution piping, storage tanks, gas venting) in strict compliance with industry standards.
- Health and safety standards on the construction site, including risk prevention (explosions, leaks, safe handling of fuels, etc.).
LEARN TO YOUR WAY

100% ONLINE
Perfect for self-taught people; it allows youto study for your bachelor's degree at your own pace, independently.

IN CLASS
Classroom training is ideal for those who want maximum direct interaction between trainers and students.

VIDEOCONFERENCING
In conjunction with classroom training, training via Zoom is ideal for people who live far from one of our four centers.
THE OBJECTIVE OF THIS TRAINING
The primary objective of this training is to enhance general knowledge of construction and enable contractors to apply best practices. More specifically, it aims to improve participants’ knowledge and reinforce the importance of effective project management for contractors carrying out work related to:
- Definitions and types of systems: Units of measurement in piping, fluid mechanics concepts, basic mathematical calculations, and a description of the components of a heat generator.
- Legal and Regulatory Framework: Roles and responsibilities of the various stakeholders, definition of work reserved for master pipefitters, and understanding of applicable regulations.
- Reading blueprints and specifications: Accurate interpretation of symbols, dimensions, general notes, and the various sections of a specification related to building systems (plumbing, electrical, and tanks).
- Standards, construction, and safety: Fuel storage management, piping sizing and installation, calculation of combustion air supply, initial startup, routine troubleshooting, and accident risk management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Subcategory 15.4
: Hydronic Heating System Contractor
What is subcategory 15.4 of the RBQ?
Subcategory 15.4 (Hydronic Heating Systems) is a specialized contractor’s license (or owner-builder license). It authorizes construction work related to hydronic heating systems. By law, this work is restricted exclusively to master plumbing mechanics.
Which RBQ exams are required for subcategory 15.4?
To obtain this license, the prospective licensee must pass the core curriculum exams (Administration, Construction Site Safety Management, Project and Site Management) as well as the specific exam on Construction Work Execution (ETC) for subcategory 15.4. Note that the oversight of this specialty also involves the Corporation des maîtres mécaniciens en tuyauterie du Québec (CMMTQ).
What other types of work are included in subcategory 15.4?
Under current regulations, the holder of a 15.4 license may also perform construction work related to propane burner systems, as well as work covered under subcategory 15.4.1. It also authorizes work on hydronic systems used for both heating and air conditioning, provided that the contractor also holds the appropriate subcategory 15.9 or 15.10. Finally, it includes all related construction work.
What skills are assessed on the ETC 15.4 exam?
The RBQ’s on-site work inspection, which lasts three hours, is divided into four main evaluation categories:
- Definitions and types of systems.
- The legislative, normative, and regulatory framework.
- Reading blueprints and specifications.
- Standards and the execution of the work.
Are the trainers at GSC available and attentive to our needs?
No matter what type of training you choose— 100% online, in person, or via Zoom —you will always benefit fromthe RBQ educational support provided by our RBQ trainers. Their role is not limited to teaching the material: they are available to answer your questions, guide you, and help you better understand the essential concepts.
Thanks to our online training platform, it is quick and easy to contact trainers directly from your student area via the integrated messaging system. This allows you to obtain support for your entrepreneurial training, whether you have a general question or need clarification on a specific course.
This ongoing educational support significantly reduces the stress associated with RBQ exams and increases your chances of success, allowing you to move forward with clear, professional, and quick answers, without being left in uncertainty.
Can Groupe GSC help me deal with the RBQ?
- Rest assured that you are never alone in your dealings with the RBQ. GSC offers RBQ support to its members, which continues until you obtain your license and throughout your career thereafter.
Our team offers you personal, accessible, and ongoing support, particularly for:
- the RBQ examination request;
- planning or rescheduling an exam;
- monitoring your case;
- communication with the RBQ, as needed.
This RBQ support is included depending on your GSC membership status, allowing you to move forward with peace of mind, avoid mistakes, and complete your procedures with confidence.
What are the advantages of taking a course with GSC?
Benefits of taking a course with GSC
By choosing the GSC Group, you benefit from high-quality RBQ training, designed specifically for contractors in the construction industry and aligned with RBQ requirements.
Here are the main advantages of our RBQ training courses:
Flexibility
- Courses offered online, in person, or via Zoom, depending on your schedule and constraints.
Personalized support
- Continuous human support before, during, and after training.
- Help with exams, administrative procedures, and understanding the subject matter.
Exclusive member benefits
- RBQ license bond included (depending on membership).
- Discounts at numerous partners in the construction industry.
- Free consultation with our team or one of our many partner professionals.
Recognized expertise and unique network
- Training courses developed by construction experts.
- Access to a network of over 7,000 active members, promoting sharing, opportunities, and comprehensive support that goes far beyond simple training.
Thanks to this comprehensive approach, our RBQ general contractor courses are not limited to passing exams: they enable you to build your business on solid, compliant, and sustainable foundations.
JOIN THE GSC GROUP AND ENJOY A NUMBER OF BENEFITS
- License bonding included: simplified compliance, hassle-free
- Exclusive discounts from our partners: save on products and services
- Free consultation time with industry experts
- GSC app: all your tools, partners, and benefits in one place
TEACHERS PASSIONATE
Marc-André Dayan
Administration
Alex Bachand
Financial management
Sarah Beaudin-Hétu
Project management and
Execution of works
Jean-Philippe St-Amand
Administration
Vincent Bolduc
's safety management on construction sites
P.O. Duchesne Lachance
tivity management on construction sites
Jonathan Arcouette
, and Wood Framing Project Management
André Côté
, and Execution of Work
Maxime Drolet
Septic tanks & Roads
, and pipes
Marc-Andrew Brown
Electricity
Guillaume Lévesque
Plumbing
READY TO START YOUR TRAINING?
RBQ Preparatory Training:
ONLINE
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Full access to the GSC platform
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Pre-recorded video training
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Interactive modules with quizzes
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Practical exams for each module
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24/7 e-mail access to your teacher
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Optional services: incorporation, bonding, website, accounting
CONTACT AN AGENT
An agent will contact you to verify whether this training applies to you.
RBQ Preparatory Training: "
" via Video Conference
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Live training
(simultaneous with classroom courses) -
Live interaction with the trainer
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Full access to the GSC platform
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Access to training videos
(if required) -
Interactive modules with quizzes
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Practical exams for each module
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24/7 e-mail access to your teacher
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Optional services: incorporation, bonding, website, accounting
JOIN THE PROGRAM
An agent will contact you shortly
RBQ Preparatory Training: "
" (In-Person)
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On-site training
(4 centers in Quebec) -
Access to the trainer after the course
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Full access to the GSC platform
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Access to training videos
(if required) -
Interactive modules with quizzes
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Practical exams for each module
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24/7 e-mail access to your teacher
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Optional services: incorporation, bonding, website, accounting
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Structured, distraction-free environment
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Human connections and instant networking
RESERVE YOUR PLACE
An agent will contact you shortly