Any day for an HVAC contractor can be full of surprises. During one callout, you may be cleaning evaporator coils; on the other, you’re handling specific refrigerants. Either way, every day is different from the next, and you must be prepared with the top HVAC contractor tools.
Your toolbox is your lifeline—it has (or should have) everything you need to tackle a day’s work. And when you forget something, it messes up your work efficiency and could affect your relationship with a client. To ensure you remember everything for your next job, we’ve compiled a list of essential items for HVAC contractors. Some of the sections will outline include:
- HVAC safety tools
- Essential contractor tools
- Advanced gadgets
HVAC Safety Tools
Before starting any job, safety is always the most crucial part. You’ll want to ensure the area around you is clear of obstructions or hazardous materials. You don’t want to hurt yourself or those around you while working. Furthermore, your toolbox should have items such as:
- Thick gloves
- Goggles
- Mask (N95, P100, etc.)
- Ear plugs
- Steel toe boots
Essential HVAC Contractor Tools
Now that safety is covered, it’s time to move on to essential contractor tools. These are items you’ll likely use on daily callouts.
1. Screwdrivers/Nut Drivers
It’s hard to complete any HVAC task without the help of a screwdriver or nut driver. Besides fixing the problem, screwing and unscrewing different parts of the unit is the nature of the job.
You’ll want to invest in a multi-head screwdriver with various Philips and flat-tip options. A small magnetic nut driver set will suffice for most jobs.
2. Pliers
If screw and nut drivers are the most used tools, pliers aren’t far behind. You’ll use these for gripping, bending, and cutting wires or pipes. There are different types of pliers, such as:
- Tongue-and-groove
- Needle-nose
- Wire strippers
While the uses may vary, having a small, medium, and large pair of one or two pliers would be beneficial. To enhance longevity even further, invest in a set of insulated pliers.
3. Hammer
A tool set isn’t complete without a hammer. It’s one of the most versatile tools and will be helpful for most jobs. You don’t need anything extravagant; a standard-size hammer with a good grip will do just fine.
4. Wrenches
Your HVAC toolbox should have an extensive selection of wrenches, such as:
- Fixed
- Adjustable
- Crescent
- Pipe (Specifically useful for loosening pipe connections)
Including small, medium, and large wrenches will enable you to tackle any task effectively.
5. Drills
There may be a time when manual power can’t get the trick done. This is when it’s time for your drill to take over. Ideally, you’d want a cordless battery-powered drill to make things easier for yourself. If you go this route, keep a battery charging in your toolbox so you’ll never run out of juice.
6. Extension Cord
Having an extension cord can be a lifesaver. Sometimes you’ll need to use electrical tools that may require a longer cable. With the help of an extension, you’ll still be able to complete your task without too much maneuvering. A cable that’s around 50 feet long should be more than enough.
7. Gauges
HVAC gauges are essential for measuring pressure, temperature, and other critical parameters in refrigeration systems. Manifold gauges, refrigerant hoses, and adapters are necessary for proper system diagnosis and maintenance.
8. Flashlight/Headlamp
As an HVAC contractor, you should always have a dependable flashlight to evaluate systems accurately. Additionally, equipping yourself with a headlamp can be advantageous as it lets you keep your hands free while working in dimly lit areas.
Advanced Gadgets
There’s nothing wrong with using traditional tools to complete HVAC jobs as long as they help you do it efficiently. However, why not enhance your skills and productivity with advanced HVAC contractor tools? You should note that these will be more expensive than their counterparts. But they are still important nonetheless.
1. Digital Thermometer
Measuring temperature is one task you’ll do frequently. While standard thermometers give you a general idea, digital thermometers give a more accurate depiction of the current temperature. That way, you’ll have an easier time pinpointing the issue in an HVAC system.
2. Drain Gun
Clearing a condensate drain line is a simple task that can quickly become a headache. Standard cleaning methods include:
- Using a wet-dry vacuum to clear the blockage
- Flushing with vinegar or hot water
- Removing with a small brush
What if you need more firepower for a stubborn clog? A great tool is a drain gun. It packs a powerful punch using high-pressure cartridge blasts to remove the clog. You’ll also have access to a versatile adapter for various drain line-clearing accessories.
3. Awl
You utilize an awl to score sheet metal, ensuring precise and straight cuts. Additionally, awls are handy tools for punching holes in sheet metal, wood, or sheetrock whenever needed.
The issue with awls is that they’re pressure-dependent, and you might slip, causing an uneven line. Instead of dealing with that headache, use the Pocket Brake. It helps streamline everyday tasks that involve cutting since it has two wheels. Now you won’t have to worry about awkward cuts and wasted materials.
How Motili Helps Contractors Succeed
Having the correct tools will help you work efficiently and keep clients happy. But what about the other aspects of the job, such as marketing and actively trying to land clients? They can be tedious and get left by the wayside.
But here’s a solution; Motili has an HVAC contractor app that handles everything for you. You can access various jobs once you’ve joined the Motili contractor network, you can access various jobs. So you won’t have to spend money on a marketing budget and actively search for clients. Plus, it’s yours once you accept a job—there’s no competition. Motili provides the equipment, and you can do what you do best!
