At the end of the day, there’s nothing more frustrating than arriving on-site and realizing you don’t have the right tool for the job! We have split our 20 HVAC tools list into three categories: the bare necessities, special HVAC tools, and safety gear. If you’re looking for digital tools instead, consider our extensive list of 21 best HVAC apps for technicians or 7 best HVAC apps for growing businesses.
If you’re just joining the industry, use this HVAC tools list for technicians as a shopping list. Or, if you’ve already got a toolbox, treat it as a checklist to make sure you’re fully equipped.
Basic tool every technician should have
These tools are the bread and butter of HVAC and a must-have in every technician’s toolbag.
Screwdrivers
You will need this piece of kit on you at all times, which is why it sits at the top of our HVAC tools list. A multipurpose screwdriver that comes with magnetic Phillips-head and flathead bits in a variety of sizes is ideal. For protection against electrical shock, opt for a screwdriver with an insulated handle.
Hammer
Standard hammers tend to be quite heavy, so it’s best to look for a lightweight hammer to include in your HVAC tools list.
Pliers
Every HVAC technician needs a complete set of pliers to handle bolts and manipulate and cut wire, cables, and pipes. As a minimum, you should have the following types of pliers in your HVAC toolkit: linesman, needle-nosed, open-face, channel-locking, and wire-strippers. It’s a good move to keep a variety of sizes, too.
Tape measure
A tape measure is an item that you will often find yourself using. Although, at face value, it seems like one of the most simple items on this list of HVAC tools for technicians, there are some important qualities to check for. Permeability, tack, adhesion, length, shear, and temperature resistance are a few things to consider.
Flashlight
A flashlight is a vital tool for HVAC technicians as you will inevitably need to work in some low-light areas. A small handheld flashlight is a good start, but you’ll be glad to have a headlamp for the times you need both hands to be free.
Wrenches
Equip yourself with a decent set of crescent wrenches, also known as adjustable wrenches, in multiple sizes. It would be best if you also got yourself a good pipe wrench for tightening and loosening plumbing and gas connections. Include both types of wrenches in your HVAC tools list, and you can’t go wrong!
Cordless drill
A durable, high-performance cordless drill is a vital HVAC tool for technicians in the field. Drilling holes and driving screws are everyday tasks, so look for a Lithium-ion battery model that has a long runtime and is compact, lightweight, and feels comfortable in your hand.
Manifold gauge
Manifold gauges are an essential item in any decent HVAC tools list. They’re being used to remove contaminated refrigerants from air conditioning systems, measure the pressure of a gas or liquid in a cooling system, detect leaks, and test vacuum pressure when charging an air-con unit.
Special HVAC tools for pros
Now we’ve covered the basics, the following items on our technicians’ HVAC tools list are designed for more specific purposes.
Caulking Gun
Sealing ductwork, joints, cracks, and holes are best handled with a calk gun. This is a pretty standard kit, but some have features like a ladder hook and finishing tool.
Sawzall
The Sawzall, also known as a reciprocating saw, is carried by all HVAC technicians. When you need to cut through drywall, old condensers, metal, or wood, the Sawzall is the tool of choice, which is why it makes up #2 in our HVAC tools list for pros.
Thermometers
A fundamental part of being an HVAC technician is dealing with temperature regulation and control. So, naturally, you will need a thermometer to do your job effectively. Modern thermometers are digital, compact, and highly accurate.
Fin Comb
Also called a fin straightener, this HVAC tool for technicians is used to (unsurprisingly) straighten the fins using a combing (brushing?) motion. As a secondary benefit, this tool also clears away debris from dirty fins.
Core removal tool
A core removal tool is a handy kit to remove and replace cores in HVAC systems. To prevent leaks, the core must be correctly tightened once refitted, so a tool with an integrated torque mechanism that assists with this process is ideal.
Pumps
As an HVAC technician, you will frequently remove moisture from cooling systems. To perform this task, a vacuum pump is essential.
Safety HVAC tools
These bits of equipment may not be the most exciting, but they are by far the most important items on our technicians’ HVAC tools list.
Safety glasses
In the US alone, an estimated 2,000 workers suffer a job-related eye injury and require medical attention every single day! The most frustrating part? The appropriate eyewear could have prevented an incredible 90% of those injuries. If only they had consulted this HVAC tools list…
So, choose your safety glasses carefully. Look for models with ridges to channel sweat away from your eyes, and always check whether they meet the latest industry standard.
Gloves
Your hands are probably the most important tool of all, so make sure you look after them! That’s why gloves are one thing you definitely don’t want to miss off your essential HVAC tools list.
Nowadays, you can buy HVAC gloves that allow for enough dexterity for small and fiddly tasks but still provide effective warmth and protection.
Many modern gloves even have form-fitted fingertips, so you can use your smartphone without taking them off. Now that’s handy!
Ear protection
When things get noisy, you’ll want to shut out some sound. Both earplugs and earmuffs will do the job, just ensure you pick a product with a suitable decibel (dB) rating.
It’s wise to consider the ambient temperature of your work environment, too. Hint: ditch the earmuffs in anything over 80°F.
Footwear
Usually, work boots with a steel toecap are the most sensible option. The sole should be non-slip and provide grip on most surfaces. Heeled boots are the best if you spend much time climbing ladders: you can get a more secure position on each rung.
Masks
To protect yourself and those around you, it’s essential you wear a mask—especially indoors.
Multimeter
Working as both a diagnostic and safety tool, a multimeter tests electrical current and measures voltage. It’s vital to have this information not accidentally electrocute yourself while working.
Meet Workiz HVAC management software: your secret tool
Much like your HVAC technician tools, The Workiz app travels with you everywhere and helps you get the job done. No HVAC tools list is complete without a proper HVAC management software like Workiz.
Workiz HVAC management software plays an essential role in your daily business activities from start to finish. The online booking system works around the clock to bring you new customers, and you can schedule jobs directly from the mobile app with the drag-and-drop calendar view. Providing estimates, sending invoices, automating daily tasks, communicating with technicians and clients, and getting paid in the field is an absolute breeze!
If you are serious about growing your business and running a smooth, successful operation, field management software is a smart move. Workiz is trusted by more than 100,000 service pros and is the leading platform for small-medium on-demand businesses in North America. With an average 30% increase in revenue, The secret is out! It’s about time you added Workiz HVAC management software to your proverbial tool belt.
Final thoughts
Our HVAC tools list for technicians covers all the gear you need to get started in the trade. Depending on the locations you work, you may find you need to add even more specialty tools, such as tools designed to repair a specific heating system or in certain climate conditions. Likewise, if you work as part of a team, you may find that your employer covers some of the more expensive bits of equipment.
Choose your tools wisely, opt for quality and durability, and make sure your toolbox is always fully stocked. Introduce Workiz HVAC management software to the mix, and you’re well equipped to get out in the field and make your customers happy.
