It doesn’t matter whether you’re the worlds’ most experienced or respected HVAC technician. OR, if you’re starting out in the industry. If you don’t have the right HVAC service tool list checked out, you won’t manage to meet your clients’ needs. But, before you stock up your tool bag with all the tools you think should go into it, stop.
Let’s do a little strategic thinking here. What essential tool do you think you can’t do without? As an HVAC technician, you should have at least proper footwear and safety goggles. You will also need gloves, and basic tools to show that you’re a professional in your field.
If you’re working for an HVAC business, your employer will provide specialized devices. These will help you get the job done. The equipment they provide may be too expensive for you to buy on your own. But, it would be best if you were always prepared to have some HVAC hand tools. This is so that you can prepare to handle all the jobs that you come across.
We did a little research and threw some feelers to some experienced technicians we know. We asked them what tools they would need to make up the best HVAC tool list, and here is what we came up with.
Top 9 HVAC Technician Tool List
We will discuss why it is a smart move to have all these important tools in your tool kit.
The Vacuum Pump
When you do a job as an HVAC technician, you should always ensure that you do it the right way. You don’t want to waste your time and your clients’ resources in the course of a job. You’re going to need this tool to help you suck out the refrigerant from the system. If you’re not careful while removing the refrigerant, put all you can into the compressor, your client will call you again. Some problems will come up that you’ll need to fix.
The pump can suck moisture from the air conditioner unit. It will do this as it helps you figure out where leakages are coming from. Use the pump before you recharge the compressor with more refrigerant. There are different models of vacuum pumps. So, it would be best if you were careful to choose one that’s right for you and that will work for a long time.
Cordless Drill
A cordless drill is one of the best power tools for HVAC technicians to use while on the job. It is a versatile tool that will allow you better efficiency as you work. It would help if you got a powered drill that’s at least 18 volts. Remember to throw in some arbors, a hex and hole saws, and two cordless batteries. The batteries will ensure that you can work a full day without recharging.
Reciprocating Saw
The reciprocating saw can cut through anything you’d like it to. This feature alone makes the saw a versatile tool that any service technician would be happy to use. As an HVAC technician, you might want to buy this tool yourself rather than wait for your employer to get one for you. Even then, you have to ensure that the model you choose is of high quality. A well-built tool will ensure that you can use it for a long time. Your company may provide the blades for your saw.
Mobile HVAC Software
While this is not one of the items you’d expect to be in a conventional HVAC tools list, it is still helpful. Effective HVAC software will make you look like the professional technician you are. HVAC software will allow you to make correct estimates and get important information to your team. You can also transfer the same information to your customers
Also, good software can help you to manage your business better. There are different HVAC apps designed to provide you with all types of logistical info. You will need this info to give your suppliers the best service. At the tap of a screen, it is possible to access different services. These include service histories, contact information, and equipment records.
Using an app will allow you to set aside more time to do your job. You will have more time for different tasks rather than administrative issues. When you use HVAC software, you can organize all your tasks. Also, you can give yourself time to plan how your business will grow. Software is an HVAC multi-tool that you cannot afford to work without.
Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are an essential tool to use for all your HVAC jobs. But, you have to ensure that all your screwdrivers have insulated grips. For your screwdriver needs, stock up on different ones. They can include flathead, Phillips, and hex screwdrivers. Make sure you have different sized screwdrivers to work on various bolts and screws. You will come across a wide variety in your HVAC career.
Try to buy a heavy-duty screwdriver that’s more versatile. You can use it for different purposes, such as opening up venting. Don’t forget, your screwdriver handles should be well insulated. You don’t want to risk getting an electric shock.
Pliers and Pipe Wrenches
You will find these tools in the plumbing industry. But, you’re still going to use them in HVAC systems. You will use a pipe wrench and pliers to manipulate or fold wiring. Remember, like your screwdrivers; your pliers need to have insulation too. This reduces the chances of electrical shock. Some of the pliers you will need are open face, needle-nose, and wire stripper pliers.
Shears and Tin Snips
While doing any HVAC work, you will need tools to help you manipulate and alter sheet metal. You will need to equip your tool bag with three different types of tin snips. These include rights, lefts, and straight aviators. Different types of tin snips will hold different positions and cut in different directions. This is so you can achieve better precision in your work.
If you need to cut straight lines, a good pair of shears will do the trick. Ensure that the shears have insulated handles as well.
Voltage Tester and Multimeter
When doing any HVAC job, you have to keep your safety first. HVAC systems have all sorts of connections to electrical parts. You have to make sure that you have the best testers to check if there are live wires. You will also need them to measure resistance, and take voltage measurements. Your tester will also help you to do other electrical tests while you’re doing HVAC tasks. You will need these digital tools to keep you safe while working. They will also help you protect your customer from expensive damages.
Refrigerant Scale
If you aren’t familiar with how HVAC technicians work, you may have confusion at how much precision they need to do their job. The best example of this is while charging an air conditioning unit. If you put in too little refrigerant, your system will not maintain the required temperature. If you put in too much, the system will have excess pressure in its cooling equipment. This will strain the compressor too much and lead to the shortening of its lifespan.
Too much pressure will lead to constant maintenance issues. When you use a refrigerant scale, you can avoid such issues. Do this by measuring the exact amount of refrigerant you need to add to the compressor. You will have the exact information you need to add what the system needs.
These tools will help you to check whether there are leaks in the system. They will allow you to fix any problems you encounter before they get out of control. Like vacuum pumps, there are different types of refrigerant scales. Before you buy one, ensure that you have researched its benefits to know how it will serve you.
If you are an employer, ensure that you provide your servicemen with these tools. Doing this will ensure your customers are happy with the work they do. You will prepare your team for success if you provide them with the best tools to do their jobs well.
Conclusion
As an HVAC technician, you will do a lot of work that will need the use of specialized or hand tools. Even then, you will have to put your safety first by wearing safety glasses and work boots. Other than the tools we’ve mentioned above, you will also need a tape measure, a digital thermometer, and a step ladder. These tools will help you to do different tasks.
There is a lot of work for you in the HVAC field, and you have to prepare well for them. Once you have the right tools in place, you will align yourself for success in your HVAC career. If you’re starting, there is a lot that you can learn during your years as an apprentice. Try to soak up everything you learn since you will use it once you’re a professional.