HVAC tools are rarely discussed online without someone trying to sell you something. This guide is different. I break down tools needed for different positions in HVAC so you can get an objective opinion from someone who actually works in the trade.
There is a lot covered in this article, and not all of it will apply to you. If you know what position you are going to be working in, I suggest using the navigation below to jump to that section. Otherwise, I have ordered this guide to be helpful for a beginner when read from start to finish.
Article Contents
Tool Buying Strategy for New Techs
Why You Should Wait to Buy Tools
New techs often make expensive mistakes by buying tools too early. You don’t know what brand your company uses, what specific work you’ll be doing, or what tools the job actually requires versus what looks important online.
I always recommend waiting until you have been hired before buying any HVAC tools. Your employer will typically provide you with a list of the tools you need to get started. After you have been on the job for a few weeks, you will discover the tools that are missing.
If you need guidance on getting into the HVAC trade, we have an article on that.
The Hidden Costs of Buying Too Early
Buying the wrong tools costs more than just the initial purchase. You’ll waste time learning tools that don’t match your workflow, dealing with batteries that don’t fit your coworker’s chargers, and potentially buying duplicates of tools your company already provides.
Benefits of Using the Same Tools as Your Team
Tool compatibility matters more than brand loyalty. If your crew uses Milwaukee batteries, your Makita drill becomes a paperweight when your battery dies on the job. If everyone uses the same wireless refrigerant system, you can all perform parts of an install with your own tools.
Matching your crew’s tools also means getting better training. Your coworkers can train you easier on tools they know well. Chances are also good that if the rest of your crew is using the same tool, it is a quality tool or else they wouldn’t all be using it.
Beginner Tools vs Future Tools
Some hand tools are worth getting quality versions of from the start. Other tools, such as multimeters, clamp ammeters, and tool bags are better to hold off on before buying high quality versions.
There are plenty of mid-range options for the higher priced tools that will get you by for the first couple of years of learning. By the time you need an upgrade, you will have the knowledge and experience to choose tools that are worth the investment.
Used vs New Tools: What’s Safe to Buy Used
You can save money by buying used tools, especially if you have access to quality gear and aren’t yet sure whether you’ll stay in the trade. But once you’re committed to HVAC as a career, I recommend buying quality tools new.
Safe to buy used:
- Hand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers)
- Basic power tools from reputable brands
- Tool storage and organization gear
- Some test equipment if you can verify calibration
Buy new:
- Safety equipment (hard hats, safety glasses, fall protection)
- Precision instruments (gauges, meters, leak detectors)
- Refrigerant recovery equipment
- Cordless tool batteries
Different Specialties Require Different Gear
HVAC tools are not one-size-fits-all. Different roles require completely different setups. A duct fabricator has no use for a multimeter, and a service technician rarely needs a set of crimpers.
The following section breaks down the tools you’ll need based on your specific position.
HVAC Tools by Role
Residential Installation Tools
What the Company Typically Provides
Most residential installation companies provide the heavy, expensive equipment: refrigerant recovery machines, vacuum pumps, nitrogen tanks, core drilling equipment, pipe threaders, and specialty lifting devices. Some companies will provide gauges, scales, and torch sets as well.
Your employer will typically provide a service vehicle stocked with common parts and some shared tools. Larger companies may provide power tools and charging stations.
What You’ll Be Expected to Own
You will be expected to provide basic hand tools, storage for those tools, and basic safety equipment.
Before breaking down the tools, it’s important to make sure you have the proper safety equipment. OSHA loves to hand out fines to those who forget these things, and the guys skipping PPE are typically the same ones getting serious injuries.
PPE Requirements
- Safety glasses (side shields recommended)
- Hard hat (if required for new construction)
- Steel-toe boots with slip-resistant soles
- Work gloves (leather for handling metal, insulated for electrical work)
- Earplugs
- Respirator or dust mask for attic and crawl space work
Recommended Tool List
Hand Tools:
- Crescent Wrenches (3/8″, 5/8″, 3/4″)
- Channel lock pliers (2 sizes)
- Screwdrivers (large flathead, med phillips, t-stat screwdriver, 1/4″, 3/8″)
- Wire strippers
- Utility knife with replaceable blades
- Tape measure (25′ minimum)
- Torpedo level
- Claw Hammer
- Tin snips (left, right, and straight)
- Hand Seamer (tongs)
- Duct Crimpers
- Duct Folding tools (12″, 24″)
- Nylon tie tensioning tool (commonly called banders)
Power Tools:
- Cordless drill/driver (18V minimum)
- Cordless reciprocating saw
- Cordless angle grinder (4.5″)
- Impact driver
- Extra batteries and charger
HVAC Specific:
- Tubing cutter (1/8″ to 1 1/8″)
- Deburring tool
- Flaring tool
- Refrigerant manifold gauge set
- Digital thermometer
- Tubing Benders
- Manometer
Electrical:
- Basic Digital multimeter
- Non-contact voltage tester
Starter Budget vs Advanced Loadout
Starter Budget ($800-1200): Focus on hand tools and basic power tools. Start with a mid-range drill, reciprocating saw, and all of the essential tools listed above (unless your employer supplies them). Stick with analog gauges and a basic multimeter.
Advanced Loadout ($2500-4000): Add cordless band saw, digital manifold system, advanced multimeter, drill-powered hole-cutter, duct stretchers, higher quality tool bags, and laser levels.
Available Kits or Bundles
Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita offer HVAC-specific tool bundles that include drill, driver, reciprocating saw, and batteries. These bundles cost 20-30% less than buying tools individually. Remember that it is always wise to buy the same brand as your crew.
Don’t forget to check with your local supply house. They often carry apprentice bundles or seasonal promotions that can save you money.
Tool Bag/Storage Suggestions
For new construction and larger duct-system installations, you will want to get a tool belt. People new to the trade can start with a belt from Home Depot or Lowe’s. More experienced installers typically invest in high-quality leather sets from brands like Occidental.
Retrofit installers will typically have a tool belt and a bag, relying on the bag most of the time. Many of the tool kits from Milwaukee, DeWalt, and other big manufacturers will come with a tool bag that is sufficient.
Other Things You Will Need
In addition to your standard HVAC tools, you’ll want to have a ductulator, a copy of the IFGC (for gas pipe sizing), and any locally adopted building code books. It’s also smart to carry a pack of Sharpies, and of course, a jobsite radio.
Service Technician Tools
What the Company Typically Provides
Service companies typically provide a vehicle, refrigerant recovery machines, vacuum pumps, and sometimes refrigerant scales, brazing torches, tubing benders, and power tools. Some companies provide tablets or smartphones for dispatch and invoicing.
Some service companies provide a basic tool allowance or reimburse tool purchases up to a certain amount annually.
What You’ll Be Expected to Own
Service technicians need a mix of hand tools, electrical diagnostic tools, and refrigerant tools. Since you’ll be working directly with customers, it’s important to keep your tools clean, organized, and professional-looking.
Experienced techs often invest in wireless diagnostic systems and high-end multimeters to work faster and more accurately. These are smart upgrades, but only after you’ve gained enough experience to choose the right tools for how you actually work.
PPE Requirements
Same basic requirements as installation, plus:
- Disposable gloves for handling dirty equipment
- Knee pads or service kneeling pad
- Flashlight or headlamp for dark mechanical rooms
- First aid supplies for remote service calls
Recommended Tool List
Diagnostic Tools:
- Digital manifold gauge set
- Digital multimeter with temperature probe
- Clamp ammeter
- Manometer set (digital preferred)
- Refrigerant leak detector
- Infrared thermometer
- Psychrometer
- Megohmmeter
- Digital Thermometer
Hand Tools:
- Complete wrench set (1/4″ to 1 1/4″)
- Socket set with ratchet
- Adjustable wrenches (multiple sizes)
- Pliers set (needle nose, channel lock, diagonal)
- Screwdrivers (t-stat driver, 1/4″, 3/8″, multiple sizes of phillips and flathead)
- Hex key sets
- Tubing cutter and deburring tool
- Wire strippers and electrical tools
Power Tools:
- Cordless drill with bits
- Cordless reciprocating saw
- Cordless angle grinder
- Impact driver
- Vacuum pump (1/4 HP minimum)
Specialty Service Tools:
- Coil fin comb
- Core removal tool
- Refrigerant scales
- Hose and fittings for gauge connections
Starter Budget vs Advanced Loadout
Starter Budget ($1500-2000): You will want at least basic versions of everything listed above. You can save quite a bit of money by investing in multi-tools such as an 11-in-one screwdriver.
Advanced Loadout ($4000-6000): Professional-grade digital manifold system, high-end multimeter, complete power tool set, and specialized HVAC tools such as ECM testers. Career technicians will regularly invest in their own refrigerant scales, vacuum pumps, and other expensive tools to build a system of wireless tools that they can use for easier diagnostics.
Available Kits or Bundles
Brands like Hilmor, Yellow Jacket, and Fieldpiece often sell bundled refrigerant tools that cost less than buying each piece separately.
Fluke and other high-end manufacturers also offer diagnostic tool bundles, especially for multimeters, probes, and clamp meters. Check with your local supply houses or online and compare deals.
Tool Bag/Storage Suggestions
Service technicians need to transport their tools multiple times per day, making quality tool bags a high priority. The standard option is one or more bags, however, tool backpacks are gaining popularity. You will want to give thought toward balancing practicality with professional appearance.
Other Things You Will Need
Depending on how you take notes, you’ll want either a storage clipboard or a durable iPad case. Most service techs also end up buying a few mobile apps for quick access to PT charts, static pressure charts, and other references.
Apps Used in This Role
- Manufacturer apps for equipment manuals and troubleshooting guides
- Refrigerant charging calculators with superheat/subcooling charts
- Parts lookup apps for cross-referencing components
- Customer management apps for service history
- Digital forms for maintenance contracts and service agreements
Commercial Installation Tools
What the Company Typically Provides
Commercial contractors typically provide heavy machinery, lifting equipment, large power tools, and material handling equipment. This includes cranes, forklifts, scaffolding, and commercial-grade cutting tools.
Most commercial jobs require specific safety equipment that companies provide and maintain, including fall protection systems and confined space entry equipment.
What You’ll Be Expected to Own
Commercial installers need heavy-duty hand tools that can handle larger fasteners and more demanding conditions. Your tools need to be durable because commercial job sites are harsh environments.
You’ll often work as part of a crew, so tool organization and sharing become important considerations.
PPE Requirements
Commercial job sites have stricter safety requirements:
- ANSI Class II high-visibility vest
- Hard hat
- Safety glasses with side shields
- Steel-toe boots (some sites require metatarsal guards)
- Fall protection harness
- Hearing protection
- Respirator for dusty conditions
- Gloves
Recommended Tool List
Heavy-Duty Hand Tools:
- Adjustable wrenches up to 12″
- Socket sets (3/8″ and 1/2″ drive)
- Pipe wrenches (14″ and 18″)
- Channel lock pliers (multiple sizes)
- Heavy-duty screwdrivers (phillips and flathead)
- Pry bars and spud wrenches
- Tape measure
- Levels (torpedo and longer length)
- Pipe Crimpers
- Hand Seamer (tongs)
- Duct stretchers
- Nylon tie tensioning tool (commonly called banders)
- Hand riveter
- Speed square
Power Tools:
- Cordless drill
- Cordless impact driver
- Cordless reciprocating saw
- Angle grinder
- Band saw
- Hammer drill for concrete anchors
Commercial-Specific:
- Pipe threading machine
- Large tubing cutters
- Chain pipe cutter
- Conduit bender set
- Wire pulling equipment
Starter Budget vs Advanced Loadout
Starter Budget ($1200-1800): Start with durable hand tools and basic cordless tools. These will get you through most day-to-day installs. Avoid the trap of buying too many cheap tools.
Advanced Loadout ($3000-5000): High quality tool belts, charging stations, complete socket sets, cutting torches, and other tools are typically acquired over time as the need arises. Career journeyman often end up with thousands of dollars of specialty HVAC tools.
Available Kits or Bundles
All of your power tools are likely sold in a kit. You can find these at Lowe’s, Home Depot, or a multitude of online shopping sites. HVAC specific hand tools can sometimes be found in bundles at supply houses.
Tool Bag/Storage Suggestions
Commercial installers often use gang boxes or job site storage rather than individual tool bags. You will need a quality tool belt for carrying your tools throughout the workday. Canvas belts are fine to start with, but most installers eventually upgrade to a heavy-duty leather set from a brand like Occidental.
You Will Also Need
Sharpies are constantly used. Buy a large pack of them. You will also want a good job-site radio.
Duct Fabrication Tools
What the Company Typically Provides
Duct fabrication shops provide large equipment like duct formers, cutting tables, plasma cutters, air hammers, and material handling equipment.
Most shops provide safety equipment specific to metal fabrication including eye protection, hearing protection, and cut-resistant gloves.
What You’ll Be Expected to Own
Duct fabricators need precision measuring tools and hand tools. This position requires the least employee owned tools as most of the work is done using large machinery that is typically owned and supplied by the company.
PPE Requirements
Metal fabrication requires specific safety equipment:
- Safety glasses with side shields (prescription safety glasses if needed)
- Cut-resistant gloves
- Hearing protection
- Steel-toe boots
- Long sleeves for protection from metal edges
- Respiratory protection for dust and fumes
Recommended Tool List
Measuring and Layout:
- Steel rulers (multiple lengths)
- Tape measure
- Combination square
- Protractor for angles
- Dividers and compass
- Center punch
- Scribe and marking tools
Cutting and Forming:
- Tin snips (straight, left, and right cut)
- Files and deburring tools
- Hand seamers (tongs)
- Folding tool (hand brake)
- Punch and die sets
- Ball peen and sheet metal hammers
Power Tools:
- Cordless drill with metal bits
- Angle grinder with cutting wheels
- Electric shears for heavy cutting
- Pneumatic tools if shop has air system
Tool Budget
Budget ($600-1000): Quality measuring tools and basic hand tools. Your employer will provide most of the large tools for this position.
Available Kits or Bundles
Sheet metal tool suppliers offer fabrication starter kits with essential tools and storage. These kits include tools specifically chosen for ductwork fabrication.
Some manufacturers offer apprentice bundles designed for trade school students entering fabrication programs.
Tool Bag/Storage Suggestions
Most duct fabricators keep their tools in a personal toolbox stored at the shop. As your tool collection grows, you’ll likely upgrade to a larger box, but a small or medium-sized toolbox is usually enough for most fabricators.
Controls and Low-Voltage Tools
What the Company Typically Provides
Controls companies typically provide programming software, laptops or tablets for system programming, and specialized test equipment for building automation systems.
Companies often provide access to manufacturer training and certification programs for specific control systems.
What You’ll Be Expected to Own
Controls technicians need specialized electronic test equipment and precision tools for working with sensitive electronic components.
Your tool selection should emphasize precision and compatibility with electronic systems rather than mechanical durability.
PPE Requirements
- Anti-static wrist straps for sensitive electronic work
- Safety glasses
- Clean work gloves (non-conductive)
- Standard construction PPE for job site work
Recommended Tool List
Electronic Test Equipment:
- Digital multimeter with temperature probe
- Oscilloscope
- Signal generator
- Network cable tester
- Fiber optic test equipment
- Power supply (variable voltage)
- Component tester
Precision Tools:
- Small screwdriver sets
- Precision pliers
- Wire strippers for small wire
- Crimping tools for various connectors
- Soldering iron and supplies
- Desoldering tools
- Magnifying glass or microscope
Network and Communication:
- Cable pulling tools
- Punch-down tools
- Connector crimping tools
- Cable tester
- Tone generator and probe
- Network analyzer
Starter Budget vs Advanced Loadout
Starter Budget ($1000-1500): Basic multimeter, hand tools, and simple test equipment. Focus on tools that work with multiple system types.
Advanced Loadout ($3000-5000): Professional test equipment, oscilloscope, specialized programming tools, and complete precision tool sets.
Available Kits or Bundles
Electronics tool suppliers offer technician starter kits with basic test equipment and precision tools. These kits are designed for electronic troubleshooting and repair work.
Tool Bag/Storage Suggestions
Controls technicians need organized storage that protects sensitive electronic equipment. Padded cases and anti-static storage are important for test equipment.
Other Specialized Roles
As you advance in your HVAC career, you might move into specialized roles like sales, project management, system design, or business ownership. Each of these paths requires different tools and skills.
Sales professionals need presentation tools, measurement devices for estimates, and mobile computing equipment. Project managers need scheduling software, communication tools, and cost tracking systems.
The tool requirements for these roles are covered in more detail in separate articles specific to each path.
Tool Organization & Field Efficiency
Tool Bag Layout Tips
Installation Layout: Organize tools by task sequence. Keep layout and measuring tools together, cutting and forming tools together, and fastening tools together. This matches the flow of installation work.
Service Layout: Organize tools by diagnostic sequence. Keep electrical test equipment together, refrigeration tools together, and mechanical tools together. Service work jumps between different systems, so group tools by the system they diagnose.
Restocking and Prepping for Next Day
Check your consumables daily: drill bits, utility knife blades, sharpies, electrical tape, wire nuts, and small fasteners. Running out of these items stops work immediately.
Clean and organize tools at the end of each day. This prevents losing tools and helps you identify maintenance needs before they become problems.
Charge all battery-powered tools overnight. Consider backup batteries for critical tools like drills and flashlights.
Vehicle and Packout Setups for Mobile Techs
Design your vehicle storage around your most common job types. Service technicians need different organization than installers.
The tools you use most often can be left in your tool belt or main tool bag.
Tool Ownership, Longevity & Maintenance
How Long Tools Last
Hand tools from quality manufacturers can last 10-20 years with proper care. Power tools typically last 3-7 years depending on usage intensity and maintenance.
Cutting tools need regular maintenance to stay effective. Tubing cutters, saw blades, and drill bits are consumable items that need regular replacement.
Electronic test equipment can last anywhere from 3-15 years. Calibration is periodically needed to maintain accuracy of the tools.
When and Why to Replace Tools
Replace tools when they no longer perform their intended function accurately or safely. A worn tubing cutter that creates burrs needs replacement even if it still cuts.
Upgrade tools when you consistently need capabilities your current tools don’t provide. Don’t upgrade just because newer models exist.
Consider replacement cost versus repair cost for power tools. Simple repairs like switch replacement make sense, but major motor repairs often cost more than replacement.
Calibration, Storage, and Abuse Prevention
Store precision instruments in protected cases away from temperature extremes. Digital instruments are sensitive to shock and moisture.
Calibrate test equipment annually or when accuracy becomes questionable. Inaccurate test equipment leads to misdiagnosis and poor work quality.
Take the time to learn your tools. Most tool damage comes from using tools for jobs they weren’t designed to handle.
Top HVAC Tool Brands
In addition to the brands you are probably already familiar with, there are a handful of well known electrical and HVAC tool manufacturers that are highly regarded within the trade.
Klein Tools: Excellent for electrical work, lifetime warranty on many items, premium pricing
Fluke: Industry standard for test equipment, very accurate, expensive but reliable
Fieldpiece: HVAC-focused test equipment, smartphone integration, good value for features
Yellow Jacket: Refrigeration tools and equipment, good quality, reasonable pricing
Hilmor: Mid-range HVAC tools including hand tools and refrigerant tools.
Budget Considerations
Buy quality tools for daily-use items and critical safety equipment. You can use budget tools for occasional-use items that don’t affect work quality or safety.
Consider total cost of ownership including batteries, accessories, and replacement parts when comparing brands.
Tool Safety & Best Practices
Safe Handling of High-Risk Tools
Torches and Brazing Equipment:
- Check connections before lighting
- Keep fire extinguisher nearby
- Clear flammable materials from work area
- Never leave lit torches unattended
- Use proper lighting sequence
Refrigeration Gauges:
- Wear safety glasses when connecting/disconnecting
- Check hose condition before each use
- Never exceed gauge pressure ratings
- Purge air from hoses before connecting to system
Power Tools:
- Inspect cords and plugs before each use
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment
- Maintain three points of contact when using tools at height
- Never remove safety guards or defeat safety switches
Common Injuries and Prevention
Cuts from Sharp Metal:
- Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling sheet metal
- Keep metal edges away from your body
- Use proper tools for cutting and deburring
- Maintain good lighting in work areas
Eye Injuries:
- Wear safety glasses with side shields
- Use face shields for grinding and brazing
- Keep first aid supplies accessible for eye irrigation
- Never look directly at welding arcs
Back Injuries:
- Use proper lifting techniques
- Get help with heavy items
- Use mechanical aids when available
- Maintain good physical condition
Job-site Safety Tips
Tool Maintenance Safety:
- Keep cutting tools sharp (dull tools require more force and are more dangerous)
- Clean tools regularly to prevent slipping
- Store tools securely to prevent falls
- Replace damaged tools immediately
Electrical Safety:
- Test circuits before working on them
- Use lockout/tagout procedures
- Keep electrical tools dry
- Use GFCI protection in wet locations
Work Area Safety:
- Keep work areas clean and organized
- Use proper lighting
- Mark hazards clearly
- Maintain clear escape routes
Remember that tool safety is about developing good habits that become automatic. Safe work practices protect you, your coworkers, and your ability to earn a living in this trade.
Conclusion
Your tool collection will grow and evolve throughout your HVAC career. Start with quality basics, buy tools as you need them for specific jobs, and maintain what you own properly.
Good HVAC tools make you more efficient, more accurate, and safer on the job. They’re an investment in your career that pays returns through better work quality and increased earning potential.
Focus on learning to use your tools properly rather than accumulating more tools. A skilled technician with basic tools outperforms a beginner with expensive equipment every time.
