My advice to you would be to keep the two licenses separate. Flying hours doesn't put food on the table, nor let's you buy better tools
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I'm also a PPL holder in Canada, and an AME. I've done the occasional job for some private buddies with aircraft, and was asked if I wanted to do it in exchange for some hours. In the end, I billed an invoice for cash. Took the plane up a couple times though, just paying the fuel and operating costs like Amy other owner.
Local big fancy flying club in my parts did have a discount programme for their AMEs, was a better option. Mechanics engaged in test flights and such required a commercial license - your making money flying. If you're taking aircraft up yourself with only a PPL after doing an annual on it - you open the doors to some regulatory problems.
Also, have fun explaining to the CRA/IRS your taxable flying benefit that you didn't pay tax on
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Too put it simple, set up your little business for fixing airplanes. Make good relationships with an owner and buy a stake. Go for a rip to keep your license current, and the other owners will like that you are working on the airplane.
But never, ever-ever, work for free/free flying. You'll just incur the wrath of the other repair stations and A&Ps/IAs in your area.