Impact gun, malco bit, meter, Screwdriver (Phillips & Flathead #2), side cutters, wire strippers, linesman, needle nose, crimpers, channel locks, flashlight, jumper cables, pocket thermometer, door switch, right angle attachment for the drill, zip ties, and a parts tray (for wire nuts, spade connectors, fuses, etc) If you start off with all that above, you’ll have a real solid start
Beginner tool I suggest: 1. Gauges(preferably manifold if you’re green) 2. Impact-brand doesn’t matter but don’t go too cheap. Kobalt will probably get you by if you can’t afford Dewalt or Milwaukee. 3. Strippers; sometimes you can find multiple purpose strippers that are great. 4. Multimeter. This tools going to be your best friend in the field. You can go cheaper by using Klein or even Ideal meters before paying a lot for Fluke or Fieldpiece. 5. 11 in 1 screw drivers. 6. Adjustable wrenches and pliers. There’s a lot of others I can think of but these are just some of the basics that come to mind for me
I would also recommend having a beater screwdriver for prying and beating. Hart from Walmart has a metal core straight and Philips set for like $10 and there is a Milwaukee set for like $12. Great investment there too
I'm going to school for Architectural and civil engineering and at the same time working on the side learning different trades. Yesterday was my first day as an HVAC apprentice and I assisted on an install, I have some experience in electrical so it wasn't very alien to me. I learned that I loved everything about HVAC except ductwork, Anyways I was up the night before searching "day in the life of HVAC tech" and found your channel. Love your videos! especially the truck loadout ones. I daily a 2002 single cab Silverado and I'm looking forward to making it the ultimate work truck and customizing it to my liking. Thanks for the effort you put into your videos ! You've earned another subscriber :)
@@JR-ch8rt I personally cant stand the Klien 11-in1 or 8 in 1. The tiny bits get lost easily, rust very quickly, and worse of all, cannot be popped into a drill for quick use. Here's what I recommend: www.amazon.com/Picquic-98883-Carded-Screwdriver-Nutdriver/dp/B001O5NXOA/ref=sr_1_1?crid=SC54VYX0WTKU&keywords=Picquic+hvac&qid=1655771929&s=hi&sprefix=picquic+hvac%2Ctools%2C101&sr=1-1
Good start but seems to be missing a few important basic tools such as a small level, marker, tube cutter and deburrer. Pvc cutters are also handy for drain pipe, conduit and capping
For your meter, as a start out meter I would have to say the Klein meter you can pick up at Home Depot works very well. Gives you the ability to check capacitors as well as measure DC voltage for pilot generators and troubleshooting control circuits on building automation stuff. The other thing I would have to add to the bag is a 1/4” and 5/16” HAND nut driver-magnetic if budget allows. There are a few other things I would recommend for someone just starting out, but you did a great job covering the basics. That set up will allow someone to at least get a feel for what they are getting themselves into and if they elect not to get into the trade (huge mistake btw) they still have a good set of tools.
Id recommend a meter with an amp clamp and does temperature. All the other features are already standard like DC volts or capacitance on every meter (that is over $50).
I agree with everything you said but as a new tech back in the day I didn’t know that you would want a meter that 1) measures MFD… which measures capacitors and also as a new tech I was limited with what I could sell (all the maintenance calls they gave me were brand new units) so get one that does “in rush” current. I bought a new one once I found out mine didn’t do that and sold a shit ton of hard start kits to customers that had brand new units
I actually jsut started riding along in a van super green used every single tool displayed here plus so many more this is definitely what I want as a beginner tho
sometimes ill use my klein style 11 in 1 in combination with a malco bit to make it into a 11n1 on a impact. its good in a bind when you need a 3/8ths bit for pulling blowers.
The 3/16 flat screwdriver bit that is ubiquitous but seldom used can be filed down to 1/8. While a stubby screwdriver is useful, your flare nut wrenches will work with the hex sections on most multi-bit screwdrivers. The 1/4 on the bits themselves, the 5/16 and the 3/8 on the hex sections used to hold the bits in those sockets. Flare nut wrenches are necessary, but one of the two I mention are light in your pocket and can give you options in close quarters. A 1/4 bit right angle ratcheting driver kept in your pocket can save you a trip for the stubby if you have to crack a screw loose but your regular screw driver won't fit with the handle.
I still say you gotta have some regular screwdrivers. I love my HVAC 8-1 and use it every day but I gotta have a regular #2 Phillips and flat in my bag
I have this meter too the field piece sc260 and it’s a good meter for starting. I like the magnet on the back. It holds good on a furnace and doesn’t slide down it.
Great video looks just like what I have in my bag. Two more things: a terminal block screwdriver and honestly some Klein diagonal side cutters are a must. Also gauges are as important as the meter can’t really do hvac with no gauges. I never go to a call with no gauges it’s just about pointless. Basic tools you can find just about anywhere you go but there is no way you go to someone’s house and you just happen to find a homeowner who has gauges you can borrow for a quick second.
One thing I noticed if you get a backpack that if you have lots of pockets you will want to fill them up.akes the bag heavy. You should only keep what is essential.
Yup. I've got a 15inch milwaukee tote bag with a pack out parts case with screws and adaptors underneath and that mofo is heavy enough to anchor a cargo ship 😂
Impact drills do not really belong in service applications, most of the time. For basic service work it’s not needed at all, nothing like watching the guys who use them strip out the screws holding on panels. Next visit the panel is gone because the screws don’t hold. Why? Impact. Buy a small drill with adjustable clutch instead. Impacts are for heavier equipment, or breaking loose or tightening nuts and bolts, not for removing and replacing 1/4” or 5/16” screws in a RTU panel.
I use a 6v electric screw driver with pistol grip. It's super light and I've never had a screw it won't remove. I've also never over tightened a screw lol. I use the impact for sheet metal / self tap.
@@LukeMentz 90% of the techs out their don’t have that soft touch. Each time that impact ratchets that screw, even with a light finger, it’s getting closer and closer. I use a Hilti Screwdriver, can clutch it down so low, can stop the thing between your thumb and pinky. Impacts are for ripping open chillers, not removing a couple small panel screws.
For a wire stripper, find yourself an Ideal Stripmaster. (There are clones, though I've not used them and can't speak for their quality.) You'll never want to go back to any other way...it's that good.
@@ShaneShubert Ive spent the money on Knipex for several channel locks (both the flat and ones with the teeth) and the linesmans pliers but for wire strippers the Milwaukee ones get the job done more than ok
i run with those cheapo southern wire ones and i prefer them over the Milwaukee. seems to strip smaller wire easier while the Milwaukee doesn't go that small. each is great. and 8$ vs 30$
hey man, what is the largest issue you have running your HVAC business day to day? Would you take on more service calls to grow the biz and delegate later on?
Tools/tips for install helper getting into the trade. Buy slowly or what you can afford Snips red/green offsets 6-1 screwdriver. Stanley are cheap for a start Flathead for prying Set of channel locks Wire strippers/lineman pliers Impact drill/hammer drill, whatever you can afford Small level Acetylene torch for brazing 4 way gauges Most companies will help with higher ticket items Pay attention, work hard/hustle, be on time, don’t bitch, if you have a question ASK. If you don’t fully understand something. ASK. Better to ask then screw something up, don’t stand around waiting for the lead to tell you what to do. Take initiative, install is very repetitive, lastly and most important, stay off your PHONE!!!
Dude don’t stress I’m a second year . Here in idaho we have to go to the community college for 4 years just to be able to take our journeyman test. I’m sure where ever you are it ain’t that bad and hopefully your program is shorter. Don’t be a bad negotiator ether when looking for work. For instance my work is offering 1000 dollar sign on bonus for you 250 for me and if we hire 15 guys in December the whole shop gets a dollar raise. Point of the story is construction has never been better for You the employees.
Those snips are garbage though. Buy once , cry once go get some Midwest snips and you’ll never be happier. Pretty close in price to those snips you got there too I’m sure.
Don’t ask to like and subscribe, earn it. No offensive. I like your vids just personally hate when creators do that. Just earn it and make good content. Thx.
When you are first starting out in the A/C trade, the only tool you need is paint brush, for sealing the ducts! 😁
I miss those days 😂
Lmao ductwork is a whole different trade here… thank god
And nerve to take shit tlking
Only chumps use seal
Hahaha dude so true!
Impact gun, malco bit, meter, Screwdriver (Phillips & Flathead #2), side cutters, wire strippers, linesman, needle nose, crimpers, channel locks, flashlight, jumper cables, pocket thermometer, door switch, right angle attachment for the drill, zip ties, and a parts tray (for wire nuts, spade connectors, fuses, etc)
If you start off with all that above, you’ll have a real solid start
Beginner tool I suggest:
1. Gauges(preferably manifold if you’re green)
2. Impact-brand doesn’t matter but don’t go too cheap. Kobalt will probably get you by if you can’t afford Dewalt or Milwaukee.
3. Strippers; sometimes you can find multiple purpose strippers that are great.
4. Multimeter. This tools going to be your best friend in the field. You can go cheaper by using Klein or even Ideal meters before paying a lot for Fluke or Fieldpiece.
5. 11 in 1 screw drivers.
6. Adjustable wrenches and pliers.
There’s a lot of others I can think of but these are just some of the basics that come to mind for me
I would also recommend having a beater screwdriver for prying and beating. Hart from Walmart has a metal core straight and Philips set for like $10 and there is a Milwaukee set for like $12. Great investment there too
Flathead and linesman pliers for prying and beating 👍🏼
I was actually surprised at walmart's hart brand, a lot of it is made in Vietnam and south Korea instead of china
as a female getting into hvac my knowledge on tools is limited. this was way more informative than my trade classes lol tysm
I'm getting into trade classes too 🌝
Omg I’m going to trade school too!!
I’ve just started in hvac. I’m at my local community college and we started in august and this video has helped me out a lot.
What kinda work do you guys do? I’m thinking about doin the same thing.
Are you in the trade already or just class? I started class now too
@@marcusaurelis hey bro how's it going??
I'm going to school for Architectural and civil engineering and at the same time working on the side learning different trades. Yesterday was my first day as an HVAC apprentice and I assisted on an install, I have some experience in electrical so it wasn't very alien to me. I learned that I loved everything about HVAC except ductwork, Anyways I was up the night before searching "day in the life of HVAC tech" and found your channel. Love your videos! especially the truck loadout ones. I daily a 2002 single cab Silverado and I'm looking forward to making it the ultimate work truck and customizing it to my liking. Thanks for the effort you put into your videos ! You've earned another subscriber :)
The Klein HVAC 8 in 1 is also good, has that tstat screwdriver in there already...and yeah the 6 in 1 stubby saves the day a lot
Highly recommended (klein hvac 8 in 1). It even has a mini flat for tstat screws too.
@@JR-ch8rt
I personally cant stand the Klien 11-in1 or 8 in 1. The tiny bits get lost easily, rust very quickly, and worse of all, cannot be popped into a drill for quick use. Here's what I recommend: www.amazon.com/Picquic-98883-Carded-Screwdriver-Nutdriver/dp/B001O5NXOA/ref=sr_1_1?crid=SC54VYX0WTKU&keywords=Picquic+hvac&qid=1655771929&s=hi&sprefix=picquic+hvac%2Ctools%2C101&sr=1-1
Get magnetic bits for impact driver and or magnetic nut drivers or a 10 in 1… you will be glad you did when you have them.
Good start but seems to be missing a few important basic tools such as a small level, marker, tube cutter and deburrer. Pvc cutters are also handy for drain pipe, conduit and capping
This set looks only for quick troubleshooting. I use to carry that hot my bag got heavy. I kept it separate install and service bag
For your meter, as a start out meter I would have to say the Klein meter you can pick up at Home Depot works very well. Gives you the ability to check capacitors as well as measure DC voltage for pilot generators and troubleshooting control circuits on building automation stuff. The other thing I would have to add to the bag is a 1/4” and 5/16” HAND nut driver-magnetic if budget allows. There are a few other things I would recommend for someone just starting out, but you did a great job covering the basics. That set up will allow someone to at least get a feel for what they are getting themselves into and if they elect not to get into the trade (huge mistake btw) they still have a good set of tools.
Id recommend a meter with an amp clamp and does temperature. All the other features are already standard like DC volts or capacitance on every meter (that is over $50).
I agree with everything you said but as a new tech back in the day I didn’t know that you would want a meter that 1) measures MFD… which measures capacitors and also as a new tech I was limited with what I could sell (all the maintenance calls they gave me were brand new units) so get one that does “in rush” current. I bought a new one once I found out mine didn’t do that and sold a shit ton of hard start kits to customers that had brand new units
Klein also makes a stubby 6n1 that is awesome
Gotta have one in the bag.
The stubby is good. I still come across much where even that is too big. Love my little 90 degree midget wrench that holds bits.
Klein HVAC screwdriver has a thermostat screwdriver in it, highly recommend it.
Man I love this dudes videos!!! So knowledgeable!!!
I actually jsut started riding along in a van super green used every single tool displayed here plus so many more this is definitely what I want as a beginner tho
sometimes ill use my klein style 11 in 1 in combination with a malco bit to make it into a 11n1 on a impact. its good in a bind when you need a 3/8ths bit for pulling blowers.
Gotta have a tubing cutter an pvc cutter as well
100% and a deburrer too
The 3/16 flat screwdriver bit that is ubiquitous but seldom used can be filed down to 1/8. While a stubby screwdriver is useful, your flare nut wrenches will work with the hex sections on most multi-bit screwdrivers. The 1/4 on the bits themselves, the 5/16 and the 3/8 on the hex sections used to hold the bits in those sockets. Flare nut wrenches are necessary, but one of the two I mention are light in your pocket and can give you options in close quarters.
A 1/4 bit right angle ratcheting driver kept in your pocket can save you a trip for the stubby if you have to crack a screw loose but your regular screw driver won't fit with the handle.
Thanks for the code. I actually used it for the same meter. 👍
This video is like a ring to a finger, i am starting buying my tools to star the "trade", this help me a lot, thanks
A nice set up Zac,your always on the ball.......
Veto pro pack will give you a deal on a new bag 20% off or a refurbished bag for 35 bucks if you show them your in Hvac school .
I still say you gotta have some regular screwdrivers. I love my HVAC 8-1 and use it every day but I gotta have a regular #2 Phillips and flat in my bag
I have this meter too the field piece sc260 and it’s a good meter for starting. I like the magnet on the back. It holds good on a furnace and doesn’t slide down it.
I wouldn’t trade the world for my Feildpeice meter love that thing Especially the multifunction
Great video looks just like what I have in my bag. Two more things: a terminal block screwdriver and honestly some Klein diagonal side cutters are a must. Also gauges are as important as the meter can’t really do hvac with no gauges. I never go to a call with no gauges it’s just about pointless. Basic tools you can find just about anywhere you go but there is no way you go to someone’s house and you just happen to find a homeowner who has gauges you can borrow for a quick second.
jumpers, alligator clips, big magnet, scrubby pad.
Can you make a Pricing video for Service and System Installations (Replacement)? Thanks
Wire strippers are a must!!
Great set up Zack
The only missing tool is the Invoice to bill customers....
is that really a tool?
Need a lot more then this but it’s a start.
What can be added ?
One thing I noticed if you get a backpack that if you have lots of pockets you will want to fill them up.akes the bag heavy. You should only keep what is essential.
guilty, my tech pac is proof of this theory
Yup. I've got a 15inch milwaukee tote bag with a pack out parts case with screws and adaptors underneath and that mofo is heavy enough to anchor a cargo ship 😂
Awesome video! I have all of these tools!
Do you think the m18 fuel would be too powerful for hvac-r?
Will be just fine.
LOVE IT
Instead of a bag have a durable plastic toolbox so you can sit on the box avoiding squatting or kneeling.
How much do you like your Malco M2000 Snips? How many times have you had to change the spring out?
Great recommendations.
Impact drills do not really belong in service applications, most of the time. For basic service work it’s not needed at all, nothing like watching the guys who use them strip out the screws holding on panels. Next visit the panel is gone because the screws don’t hold. Why? Impact. Buy a small drill with adjustable clutch instead. Impacts are for heavier equipment, or breaking loose or tightening nuts and bolts, not for removing and replacing 1/4” or 5/16” screws in a RTU panel.
12v impact is perfect, just be light on the trigger and don’t be aggressive. Ive never stripped out a screw.
I use a 6v electric screw driver with pistol grip. It's super light and I've never had a screw it won't remove. I've also never over tightened a screw lol. I use the impact for sheet metal / self tap.
@@LukeMentz 90% of the techs out their don’t have that soft touch. Each time that impact ratchets that screw, even with a light finger, it’s getting closer and closer. I use a Hilti Screwdriver, can clutch it down so low, can stop the thing between your thumb and pinky. Impacts are for ripping open chillers, not removing a couple small panel screws.
@@whoisderf fair enough, im just saying my m12 does perfectly fine for all applications (for me). guess it all just depends on the tech.
Nah it depends on the tech. I've never had an issue with my m12 impact. But i also have the "light trigger finger".
My guy, where did you get that Navac neon sign hanging on your toolbox!? That thing is awesome!!!
Wtf does NAVAC mean?
For a wire stripper, find yourself an Ideal Stripmaster. (There are clones, though I've not used them and can't speak for their quality.) You'll never want to go back to any other way...it's that good.
knipex wire strippers > klein, milwaukee, etc.
was looking at the new M12 Fuel Drill and driver, think it will be enough?
Nice!
The Milwaukee wire strippers are by far the best wire strippers in the game right now. Better than the 3 sets of Klein ones I have.
knipex 13 72 8 worth the money
@@ShaneShubert Ive spent the money on Knipex for several channel locks (both the flat and ones with the teeth) and the linesmans pliers but for wire strippers the Milwaukee ones get the job done more than ok
i run with those cheapo southern wire ones and i prefer them over the Milwaukee. seems to strip smaller wire easier while the Milwaukee doesn't go that small. each is great.
and 8$ vs 30$
Im in the hvactrade any recommendations for tools for doing a install
Nice 👍
Where can I buy the NAVAC logo, like the one in your toolbox?? Greetings from Brownsville TX.
hey man, what is the largest issue you have running your HVAC business day to day? Would you take on more service calls to grow the biz and delegate later on?
Every co needs call volume
Hes already done a few videos on that if you u search for them
What service wrench do u recomend??
Anyone know what knife that is?
Tools/tips for install helper getting into the trade. Buy slowly or what you can afford
Snips red/green offsets
6-1 screwdriver. Stanley are cheap for a start
Flathead for prying
Set of channel locks
Wire strippers/lineman pliers
Impact drill/hammer drill, whatever you can afford
Small level
Acetylene torch for brazing
4 way gauges
Most companies will help with higher ticket items
Pay attention, work hard/hustle, be on time, don’t bitch, if you have a question ASK. If you don’t fully understand something. ASK. Better to ask then screw something up, don’t stand around waiting for the lead to tell you what to do. Take initiative, install is very repetitive, lastly and most important, stay off your PHONE!!!
nobody:
me: milwaukee everything
send me 1 bag bro they cost too much 250 in Maryland
I replaced all my hand tools with Milwaukee.
Any advice on someone trying to get into the field? I’m stressing school next spring but I want to be an hvac helper but all want experience.
Dude don’t stress I’m a second year . Here in idaho we have to go to the community college for 4 years just to be able to take our journeyman test. I’m sure where ever you are it ain’t that bad and hopefully your program is shorter. Don’t be a bad negotiator ether when looking for work. For instance my work is offering 1000 dollar sign on bonus for you 250 for me and if we hire 15 guys in December the whole shop gets a dollar raise. Point of the story is construction has never been better for You the employees.
How are you stressing hvac school? U just literally show up, dont screw off (too much, some is expected) and then you pass....
What do you use seal that small hole
For the tool to go into return and supply
Where is the manifold?
Cool
👍
Jesus loves you God bless
Don't forget a knee pad or a bucket to sit on. Save your knees! You'll thank yourself later on
Sit? Lol
Uh gauge manifold ??
Nice limited tool for Many reasons ✅
🥃🍺🤔
😆😆
Those snips are garbage though. Buy once , cry once go get some Midwest snips and you’ll never be happier. Pretty close in price to those snips you got there too I’m sure.
Need a kline HVAC 8 in 1
POS Klien
Don’t ask to like and subscribe, earn it. No offensive. I like your vids just personally hate when creators do that. Just earn it and make good content. Thx.
👍