An AC repair professional uses many different tools to get the job done. Some of these are basic hand tools, more advanced versions of household tools, or specialty equipment that requires knowledge, training, and experience to use correctly.
Air conditioning repair often requires intricate tasks. You probably don’t have all the tools you need, and acquiring them can be expensive. To help you better understand an AC repair contractor’s role, here are some tools they have in their service trucks.
- Insulated Screwdrivers
- Wrenches
- Pliers
- Hammers
- Cordless Drill
- Metal Shears/span>
- Tube/Pipe Cutters
- Crimpers
- Staple Gun
- Long-Neck Nut Driver
- Step Ladder
- Level
- Flashlight
- Safety Gear
- Multimeter
- Fuse Puller
- Refrigerant Gauge
- Leak Detector
- Vacuum Pump
- Soldering Iron
1. Insulated Screwdrivers: The screwdrivers HVAC technicians use are insulated to protect them from electrical shocks. This also protects equipment from damage. Various flathead and Phillips screwdriver bits are used, depending on the screw size and type of equipment being worked on.
2. Wrenches: Wrenches are indispensable to an AC contractor’s job. Used for closing valves and securing pipes, these tools come in many sizes. Common types include 8-, 10-, and 12-inch wrenches. Aluminum and steel pipe wrenches may be used with HVAC units.
3. Pliers: AC repair often involves working with wiring. A set of pliers may be used to cut, strip, bend, or hold wires. The AC tech’s tool kit should include needle-nose, long-nose, linesman, and channel lock pliers.
4. Hammers: A standard hammer is sufficient for some tasks. However, dead-blow, ball-peen, and tinner’s hammers are needed for some air conditioner repairs.
5. Cordless Drill: An AC contractor often uses a battery-powered cordless drill set. An impact/hammer drill combo is best and the kit should include a variety of drivers, bits, and chucks to accommodate a range of size requirements.
6. Metal Shears: Even if technicians aren’t installing ductwork, they may need to cut holes in metal ducts to perform repairs and other tasks. The direction it cuts depends on the type of sheer. For most duct jobs, 12-inch-long shears are effective.
7. Tube/Pipe Cutters: Cutting copper or PVC pipes and tubes requires special tools. These are designed to make smooth cuts without burrs. Some tools are designed for specific tube sizes. A tool with an adjustable cutting wheel enables the user to adjust it to various pipe diameters. An AC repair involving refrigerant lines may require rotary or ratchet cutters.
8. Crimpers: Crimpers with two, three, or five blades are used to join round sheet metal ducts. These tools help create an airtight connection so are important during ductwork repairs.
9. Staple Gun: A staple gun can be used to secure wiring or attach insulation to ducts.
10. Long-Neck Nut Driver: Common sizes include ¼-, ⅜-, and ½-inch nut drivers. Long neck models allow techs to reach into tight spaces to perform repairs.
11. Step Ladder: It’s not uncommon for technicians to use a six- or 10-foot ladder; an extension ladder may also be used, especially to access a rooftop compressor.
12. Level: A level is often used when installing thermostats and other HVAC equipment that must be properly leveled to function correctly.
13. Flashlight: Air conditioning repair contractors need a high-quality flashlight, preferably a model with a magnetic base or that doubles as a headlamp. Its brightness level, durability, and beam focus must be considered. A flashlight must provide adequate illumination in tight, dark spaces.
14. Safety Gear: Various hazards can be encountered during AC repair. Therefore, a professional must have the appropriate equipment depending on the job, such as the following:
a. Insulated gloves
b. Safety goggles
c. Respirator
d. Steel-toed work boots
e. Hard hat
f. Face shield
g. Ear plugs
h. Thermal and cold protective clothing
Specialty Tools
Advanced tools you probably won’t find in your home that an AC repair professional uses include the following:
15. Multimeter: A multimeter measures voltage, current, and resistance. It is essential for any kind of electrical work. To diagnose and repair an electrical issue with an air conditioner, a technician must be able to interpret readings, perform continuity tests, and know the proper resistance levels. The right multimeter is also important, as models can differ in accuracy and features.
16. Fuse Puller: Air conditioner circuit boards and electrical components often have fuses. These are small but important parts and can cause system malfunctions if they fail. Fortunately, fuses are easy to replace, but a technician needs a fuse puller to remove a fuse from its holder.
17. Refrigerant Gauge: Using a refrigerant gauge, an AC contractor measures pressure in the system. Gauges come in analog and digital models. Some are more precise than others (digital models prevent errors in manual calculations). A technician must know the right gauge for measuring high-side and low-side pressures, how to interpret results, and how to properly calibrate, clean, and store the tool.
18. Leak Detector: Fixing leaks is a common type of AC repair. A refrigerant leak must be properly identified before it can be repaired, which can improve an air conditioner’s efficiency and longevity. A technician must be trained to use different types of leak detectors, including electronic, ultrasonic, and dye-based units. Their expertise in device calibration, sensor cleaning, and battery management is also important.
19. Vacuum Pump: A vacuum pump removes air and water vapor from an air conditioning system. It’s often used when recharging or recovering refrigerant. Pump capacity, the power source, and other requirements depend on the AC system being worked on.
A technician must know how to use the pump properly to avoid contamination and safety issues. They also need an understanding of how to monitor and maintain the pump. Vacuum pumps require filter replacements, oil changes, and inspections for wear and tear.
20. Soldering Iron: During AC repair, a soldering iron can be used for various tasks, from connecting metal components to securing electrical wiring to fixing circuit boards. Knowing how to prepare components and apply solder is essential for getting a repair done right. A technician must also know fundamental techniques to avoid damage and injuries such as burns or inhaling fumes.
Are AC Repair Techs Required to Have Their Own Tools?
It depends on who they work for. Some companies provide specialized tools and equipment for their field crews. Other businesses require HVAC techs to supply their own tools, which is not uncommon. Policies vary from one company to another; a business owner may help employees cover tool costs, while others supply more advanced equipment while requiring techs to purchase basic items.
How Much Do HVAC Tools Cost?
The cost of an AC repair tool depends on its quality, brand, and features. An AC technician requires a large and diverse toolkit; purchasing the basic tools can cost $200 to $500 or more. Many technicians add tools over time. The investment makes sense if you plan to perform many air conditioning repairs. Otherwise, purchasing so many tools is less practical, especially since you may rarely use them and a mistake can require investing in costly repairs.
Call Air Stars to Request Prompt AC Repair
If you live in or around Salem, OR, you can trust Air Stars for high-quality AC repair. Our technicians are fully trained, licensed, and equipped to address any problem. We stock our service vehicles with all the necessary parts and tools, allowing our teams to complete most AC repairs in one visit. Regardless of the make or model of the unit you have, we can fix it or determine if it’s time for a new air conditioning system. To schedule service, call (503) 897-9292 today.
