There are many jobs that require special tools and equipment, but none as much as an HVAC tech job. HVAC is a rewarding and challenging career. To succeed, however, you need to understand all the tools and technology involved.
One major tool is the HVAC system. It performs the most common maintenance checks that techs need to perform. Knowing the right HVAC tools needed to do the work is essential. Knowing which tools are going to cause you the most trouble on the job site should be of the utmost priority when getting into this line of work.
While a manual can explain the working theory of the devices, it will not make the job any easier. Below, we have outlined some basic necessities of the trade that should help you get started in the trade. Read on!
Hand Tools
Every HVAC technician needs the proper hand tools to repair and install HVAC systems in a safe and effective way. These are the tools that you might need:
Screwdrivers
Most technicians should have a variety of different screwdrivers available, such as Phillips head, flat-head, Torx, and hex-head. They are used to tighten and adjust screws to access parts of the unit. They can also be used to remove components for installation or replacement.
Having several screwdrivers is also important as some screws are only compatible with certain drivers and not all sizes may be required during every job. Stocking up on them is essential for any technician that needs to make repairs and complete maintenance on their HVAC equipment.
Wrenches
Every HVAC technician needs a good set of wrenches to work on any job. These essential tools come in a variety of sizes and types. Some of the most common are adjustable, open-end, and box-end wrenches.
An adjustable wrench is great for adjusting and loosening fittings, while open-end and box-end wrenches give you extra leverage to remove and tighten difficult bolts.
Pliers
Long-nose pliers give technicians the ability to get into tight places like behind a disruptive compressor unit. Needle-nose pliers are a must-have for the same purpose, as they’re able to reach even tighter areas where other pliers won’t fit. Heavy-duty pliers help cut hard tubing that regular pliers can’t, while adjustable locking pliers can clamp around any size fitting or tube to help keep it secure.
Hammers
These hard-hitting handy tools can help you drive nails, chisel wood, and free stuck screws. They’re also ideal for adjusting or tightening HVAC components. Many hammers also feature a built-in screwdriver to save time and technology.
Hex Keys
Hex keys, also known as Allen wrenches, are essential HVAC tools for techs. They are used to work on the assembly, maintenance, and repair of various HVAC units.
The hex key is the first starting point for any component or system repair so techs must have them on-hand at all times. They are also useful for disassembling components of the HVAC system such as fan blades, motors, and bearings.
Vent Pipe
Vent pipe tools help the technician cut and fit the proper size and shape of the vent pipes, and connect them for secure and efficient operation. The tools and equipment needed may include a pipe cutter, a mandrel Bender, a rubber mallet, a hacksaw, sealants, a hammer, channel locks, tubing benders, crimping tools, wire nuts, and screwdrivers.
Manifold Gauges
Technicians use manifold gauges to measure pressure and temperature in refrigerant lines to troubleshoot and diagnose issues with an HVAC system. The gauge consists of two hoses (high pressure and low pressure) that attach to the system and measure the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant.
There is a third hose (vacuum) connected between the manifold and the system which measures the vacuum level to check for leaks. These gauges come in both analog and digital versions depending on the technician’s preference.
Testing Equipment
Testing equipment is critical for every HVAC technician. HVAC technicians are able to identify potential problems, make repairs, and maintain the system’s components. Below are a few examples.
Multimeter
A multimeter is an electronic measuring instrument used to measure electrical properties of a system such as voltage, resistance, and current. They are indispensable for technicians since they provide vital information to ensure a system is functioning properly, such as testing for broken circuits or troubleshooting faulty wiring.
Multimeters can test the refrigerant charge in systems, which can help identify problems early and reduce energy costs.
Clamp-On Ammeter
This device is designed to measure the current passing through a conductor without having to disrupt the circuit. It has the ability to measure currents from milliamps to thousands of amps. It is also a great troubleshooting tool that can help technicians isolate problems and diagnose the cause.
Infrared Thermometer
This device allows the tech to measure the temperature of objects without touching them, making it useful for measuring the temperature of air ducts and other hard-to-reach areas. An infrared thermometer reads surface temperature through its lens, meaning it can measure temperatures from a distance and be used in even the tightest of spaces.
Specialized HVAC Tools
These tools are used every day by techs who inspect, diagnose, install, and improve HVAC systems.
Furnace door sealers allow techs to seal the door of a furnace to ensure a tight seal that will prevent dangerous gases from leaking out. It is also useful for checking for air leaks and can be used to make certain the unit is properly sealed. Furnace door sealers are usually battery-operated and have a built-in pressure gauge and adjustable settings for controlling the amount of force applied.
A lint-free applicator is designed to help the technician efficiently apply grease, oil, or sealant to the parts and components of all HVAC systems. It reduces the risk of lint particles being transferred onto the HVAC components and ruining their performance.
Important HVAC Tools and Equipment That You Must Have
Every HVAC technician needs the right tools and equipment to be able to effectively do their job. The correct HVAC tools and equipment vary depending on the task at hand. But, any tech should stock up on the most common ones to achieve top-notch results.
Don’t forget to shop around for the best deals and features! Invest in what you need today to improve your success in HVAC.
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