4 Essential Tools for the HVAC Trade

Written by Industrial Stores Staff 02/13/23

It can be overwhelming for beginners in the HVAC trade to figure out which tools are essential. HVAC systems have many components, and each part requires specific tools for maintenance.

And for each specific tool, there are a lot of options out there. However, with basic tools, you’ll be able to do your job correctly, which includes:

• Quickly and efficiently installing HVAC systems
• Properly diagnosing and repairing faulty HVAC systems
• Working safely in a variety of conditions and environments
• Saving time and money by doing your job right the first time

We’ve created the following list to help you choose the tools that are most essential for HVAC technicians.

1 - Multimeter

A multimeter is used when working on the electrical components of an HVAC system which will help you measure electrical current, voltage, and resistance. It is a valuable tool as it’s crucial to know whether an electrical circuit is live.

Additionally, multimeters can measure the capacitance, conductance, decibels, duty cycle, frequency, inductance, and temperature of HVAC systems.

While analog multimeters work just fine, most HVAC technicians now use digital multimeters. These devices are far more accurate than their analog counterparts and can give you a much better idea of what’s going on with an electrical system.

Some digital multimeters even include circuits for measuring the continuity of the current flow, diodes, and transistors.

2 - Screwdrivers

As an HVAC technician, you’ll encounter screws of all sizes and materials. 

To be prepared, a multibit screwdriver set, like the MultiBit Set (Stanley 62-574 20-Piece Multibit Screwdriver Set), is essential for your tool kit. This 20-piece set features a variety of bits that you can use, plus a wide range of screws.

When choosing a screwdriver, consider the following features:

• Ergonomic handle: Allows for a comfortable and firm grip. You won’t have to worry about your screwdriver slipping from your hand, even in tight places.
• Corrosion resistant: A screwdriver that is corrosion resistant will allow you to work on HVAC units located in damp areas without worrying about the tool rusting.
• Storage case: A screwdriver storage case allows you to store your bits, keep them organized and prevent them from getting lost or damaged when not in use.

As you gain experience, consider adding an electric screwdriver to your collection. It offers a much faster way to drive screws, especially when screws are tight or in hard-to-reach spots.

3 - Wrench

A wrench is another must-have tool for an HVAC technician. Most of the gripping and fastening of pipe fittings, nuts and bolts, when working on HVAC systems, will need some kind of wrench.

There are different types of wrenches available on the market each suitable for a specific application. The following are 3 common wrenches available on the market and their uses.

• Open-end wrench: This is the most common type of wrench because it can easily be used for most jobs. It has U-shaped open ends on both sides and is used for loosening and tightening nuts and bolts in areas where there isn't room for a socket.
• Close-end wrench: A close-end wrench can either be offset, double offset, or straight. They can also be used in tight spaces and come in various sizes. They are mostly used for nuts that are hard to loosen.
• Adjustable wrench: This is one of the most versatile types of wrenches in use today. It has a movable lower jaw that can be adjusted to various sizes to get the grip needed for the job.

4 - Pliers

Pliers come in handy for everything, from bending metal to cutting wires. There are many types of pliers, so it is important to choose the right ones for the HVAC trade.

Good pliers for the HVAC trade include:

• Lineman's pliers: These are good for bending or cutting wires and sheet metal, tightening and loosening wire nuts, and gripping and pulling wire.
  However, finding a decent pair of lineman’s pliers is important when working with HVAC units. A cheap pair won’t cut the wires in an HVAC unit well. A good example of a decent pair of lineman’s pliers is the York S1-10507529NA 1000V Ins Linemans Pliers 8.5".
• Needle nose pliers: Best when working in tight spaces because of their pointed, needle-like nose that can fit into the smallest spots.
  They can also be used to manipulate wire and cut soft material.
• Locking pliers: These are great for gripping and holding objects securely. They have an adjustable screw that helps clamp down the respective workpiece, allowing you to work on it easily.

Other Essential Tools

As an HVAC trade worker, there are a series of other essential tools that you need. You’ll find many of these in a basic toolkit, but these are our recommendations, split into three categories: general tools, specialty tools, and safety tools.

General Tools

This list includes essential tools that every technician—be that a plumber, electrician, or HVAC trade worker—should have in their arsenal. When installing or repairing an HVAC unit, these tools work together to ensure a wide range of tasks can be completed. They include:

• Electrical tape
• Test probes (Bapi Blu Test Probe)
• Allen key sets
• Tape measure
• Headlamp
• Utility knife
• Rope
• Wire strippers
• Cutters
• Drills
• Gauges

Safety Tools

Safety is one of the most important considerations in any trade, and HVAC work is no exception. You need to ensure your comfort and protect yourself from accidents.

The table lists some essential safety tools for HVAC trade workers.

Essential Tool	Main Use	Good Recommendation
Helmet	Protect your head from harm in work accidents. It also protects you from falling objects, preventing head injuries	Should meet basic requirements for certification based on where the technician is working
Gloves	To protect your hands from sharp and rough surfaces. It also protects your skin from chemicals that may be harmful	Should be cut-resistant with excellent grip
Safety Glasses/ Goggles	To protect your eyes from dust, debris, chemical, and UV rays in the workplace	Clear visibility and comfortable to wear
Knee pads	To protect your knees from injuries, especially when working on jobs that make you kneel for a long time	CLC Work Kneepads have a soft outer shell, closed-cell foam padding, and synthetic rubber straps that all combine to offer enhanced comfort

Specialty Tools

As an HVAC technician, you’ll encounter many different situations. Some of them will require tools with a specific purpose. If you’re working on an HVAC system, having some specialty tools at hand is a good idea—just in case.

The table below lists some essential specialty tools for the HVAC trade.

Industrial Stores for Your HVAC Tools

As a company dedicated to the HVAC industry, we understand the importance of having quality tools and equipment to get the job done right.

We offer quick shipping times so you can get started with your task as soon as possible.

“... I ordered (6) RIBs on Tuesday and they came on Wednesday! Unheard of without paying for overnight shipping … Thanks ...”
— Janet Wartschow

Contact us today and check out our wide selection of HVAC tools and equipment.

Share on Facebook: