If you’re familiar with the HVAC industry, you probably know that the sector has undergone some major changes in recent years. From the rise of DeVAP air conditioning to the rapidly growing popularity of solar-powered systems, technicians looking to stand out against their competition have to spend time educating themselves on the latest and greatest technology to hit the market.
Yet, simply being aware of how the industry has shifted doesn’t mean you have the tools to service your customers properly. You never want to arrive on the scene with a fully loaded van, only to discover that the project needs to be delayed because you’ve forgotten to buy an essential piece of equipment. Instead of creating unnecessary downtime, check out our list of essential tools that every talented HVAC worker needs.
Safety and Protective Gear
HVAC professionals get used to working in some pretty cramped spaces, with virtually every job requiring workers to contort themselves into an awkward position just to get a system installed correctly. Whether that means crawling around a tiny roof space or getting twisted up on top of a ladder, every HVAC worker needs to have a range of safety and protective equipment ready to go in their van. Naturally, this equipment will help protect you from some nasty bumps and bruises, not to mention exposure to hazardous chemicals that you definitely don’t want to mess around with.
- Safety Goggles
- Full Brim Hard Hat
- Industrial Gloves
- Cut-Resistant Sleeves
- Respirator Face Mask
- Knee Guards
- Ear Plugs
- Steel-Capped Boots
- First-Aid Kit
Hand-Held Tools for HVAC
Once you’ve carved out a section of your van for safety gear, you’ll now need to make sure you have all the standard odds and ends to ensure your day goes as smoothly as possible. While you might have your eyes set on the specialty gear that an HVAC worker needs, having a well-equipped toolbox with comprehensive sets of pipe wrenches, screwdrivers, and crimpers will see you through most projects. However, don’t forget to bring along an inspection mirror to observe all those difficult-to-see places, plus a caulk gun to seal up any minor gaps.
- Wrench Set
- Screwdriver Set
- Wire Strippers
- Channellock Pliers
- Pipe Caliper
- Cordless Drill with Spare Batteries
- Caulk Gun
- Inspection Mirror
- Torches
Professional Equipment for HVAC
If you’ve managed to fit all the tools of the trade into your van, get ready to stock up on industry-specific equipment that ensures you can meet the needs of the job. There’s an array of niche tools required to complete complex installation projects, while handling chemicals safely and accurately usually requires special equipment. Ranging from an anemometer to measure indoor airflow to refrigerant scales when hunting down any leaks, it’s not too difficult to acquire everything you need to approach specialized jobs with total confidence.
- Anemometer
- Digital Clamp Meter
- Multimeter
- Manifold Gauge
- Vacuum Pump
- Refrigerant Scales
- Refrigerant Recovery Cylinders
- Refrigerant detector
- Recovery Unit
Daily Essentials
There’s a good chance that by now your work van is starting to get a bit crowded, but there are a few more essential items that every kind of tradesperson needs. If you’re working in the HVAC industry, you simply can’t live without a high-quality ladder. Plus, you’re going to need a tape measure and some reliable levels to ensure your installation work doesn’t leave anything to be desired. Alongside long extension cords so you don’t lose power at the vital moment, consider these basic additions to your work kit.
- Headlamp
- Ladder
- Tape Measure
- Hammer
- Extension cords
- Electrical testers
- Levels
Power Up Your Business with FieldPulse
Keeping your van organized with all this gear is easier said than done, but it always helps to have a solid inventory list and a coordinated system that ensures you don’t have to take everything out to find the perfect wrench. Fortunately, FieldPulse is available for when you want to take charge of the rest of your business.
Our top-notch business management app ensures you can oversee the most important aspects of your company on the move and without the need for any paperwork. In fact, you can keep track of client information, schedule projects, process invoices, dispatch workers, and much more!
If you’re ready to lead your business from anywhere, schedule a free demo and discover how FieldPulse will take your HVAC business to the next level.
