The Best HVAC Hand Tools

Hand tools are an integral part of every trade. Invest in the best and rest assured they won't let you down. The best HVAC hand tools will last a lifetime, help across many different aspects of the job, and won't cause wrist soreness or other injuries over the course of your career.

Looking for the best tool to manage your HVAC business?
Tradify can save you 10+ hours/week on admin & paperwork!

Our top 10 best hand tools for HVAC techs (in no particular order)

1. Screwdrivers & nut drivers
2. Adjustable pliers & wrenches
3. Tin snips
4. Wire strippers
5. Side cutters & flush cutters
6. PVC cutters
7. Tape measure
8. HVAC gauges & charging manifold
9. Job management app for your HVAC business

1. Screwdrivers & nut drivers

Screwdrivers are indispensable in most trades, including HVAC, due to their versatility and precision. Whether securing ductwork, adjusting thermostat components, or just poking holes in things, screwdrivers allow HVAC technicians to efficiently handle a wide range of tasks.

What is the best brand of driver for HVAC professionals?

Klein used to be the go-to but has fallen out of favour in recent times. Most HVAC techs are recommending Wera for drivers these days.

2. Adjustable pliers/wrenches

Adjustable pliers and wrenches are an HVAC tech's best friend when they need a firm grip. Their versatility and ease of use make them essential for HVAC technicians dealing with various systems, streamlining their work and helping them complete efficient repairs or installations.

What is the best brand of adjustables for HVAC professionals?

Knipex Plier Wrenches will change your life as an HVAC tech. Their unique design combines the functionality of pliers and wrenches into one versatile tool. With a smooth and parallel jaw adjustment system, plumbers can effortlessly grip and apply pressure to fittings.

3. Tin snips

Metal snips enable HVAC techs to cut and shape sheet metal with precision and ease. Snips come in various types, such as straight-cut, left-cut, and right-cut snips, providing the versatility to handle different materials and angles. Make sure to get the right snips for the job!

What is the best brand of snips for HVAC professionals?

Malco snips are known for cutting metal like scissors cut paper.

4. Wire strippers

Your teeth won't work on 10 gauge! Wire strippers simplify the process of preparing connections and ensure safety and efficiency. Whether it's wiring thermostats, connecting HVAC controls, or performing electrical maintenance, you'll be reaching for your wire strippers.

What is the best brand of wire strippers for HVAC professionals?

Klein caters to both solid and stranded wires - while ensuring user comfort through its ergonomic design.

5. Side cutters & flush cutters

Side cutters provide a clean and flush cut, making them ideal for cutting wires, cable ties, and small components. HVAC technicians rely on side cutters to provide a clean and professional finish. Look for sharp blades and ergonomic handles to help with accuracy and prevent the need for further finishing work.

What is the best brand of cutters for HVAC professionals?

Knipex is the only answer when the question concerns cutters.

6. PVC cutters

PVC cutters make clean, burr-free cuts in PVC pipes, ensuring a leak-free connection. HVAC techs use them for cutting and fitting PVC components for air ducts, drain lines, and ventilation systems. The ratcheting mechanism and sharp blades provide precise, effortless cuts, significantly reducing the time and effort required for PVC-related tasks.

What is the best brand of PVC cutter for HVAC professionals?

Reach for a Ridgid cutter when it comes to PVC pipes.

7. Tape measure

Like most trades, HVAC techs rely heavily on a tape measure. The best tape measure is durable, easy to read and has a good lock and retract mechanism that doesn’t jam. Whether it's determining the right system size or verifying proper clearances, tape measures are an essential component of an HVAC technician's toolkit.

What is the best brand of tape measure for HVAC professionals?

The Stanley FatMax 8m/26' Metric & Imperial is mylar-coated, which makes it much more abrasive-resistant than other, lacquer-coated options.

8. HVAC gauges & charging manifold

HVAC refrigeration gauges enable HVAC techs to accurately measure and manipulate refrigerant levels in air conditioning and refrigeration systems. These gauges provide essential information about pressure and temperature, allowing techs to diagnose issues, monitor performance, and recharge refrigerants.

What is the best brand of gauges for HVAC professionals?

Yellow Jacket gauges are widely used and trusted by HVAC techs worldwide, with the 4-valve option often touted as the best in the business.

9. Job management app for your HVAC business

If building an HVAC business is on your radar, then technology is going to be your most useful tool — think of it as a whole new toolkit. The Tradify app can help you schedule jobs, send quotes, estimates, and invoices, and handle customer enquiries.

Tradify is the job management software trusted by thousands of HVAC businesses around the world. To get your business admin sorted and start experiencing the benefits of an organised business, sign up for a 14-day free trial. No credit card required. No commitment.

Or, check out one of our live demo webinars to see Tradify in action.