New HVAC Techs Don't Know What Tools They Actually Need

“Got my 608 cert, spent about $1000 for the tools I didn’t already have, and my wife and I installed a 9k MUZ/MYZ-GX09NL for our log cabin home office. Followed the Mitsubishi manual exactly including: - vacuumed down to 200 microns, making sure it stayed under 350 for an hour. - pressure tested with nitrogen at 600 psi for 24 hours. Still need to run a stability arm to the cabin, will do that in the next couple days when we get the vibration isolation part I still need. Practiced flaring on extr”

“Or do I need an air compressor submitted by /u/bamboozled_cs_boi [link] [comments]”

“What combustion analyzer would yall recommend for mainly residential with small amounts of light commercial? Most my tools currently are fieldpeice. submitted by /u/Jc_HvAC01 [link] [comments]”

“Upgraded some Trane 517's and an AH540 to a new set of Honeywell optimizer smalls, and an HMI. Not done yet, some sensors and some actuators to install still... bought a cheap plasma cutter to use for inserting the hmi, worked out well. submitted by /u/HVAC_Luddite [link] [comments]”

“Hello all I am fairly new to the industry you could say I have been doing residential HVAC for 3 years, I went to community college and got my diploma in heating and air and I’m stuck in a crossroads currently that I am seeking advice from people who have been doing this longer than I have would know. I currently work at a small company I have 2 other coworkers than myself not including the boss both of them have way more experience than me and the owner of the company also seems all knowing to”

I made a poste here https://www.reddit.com/r/hvacadvice/s/SQzf0vyJbQ and will likely start to seek advice and quotes on replacing my furnace and AC. Below are details on my house. As I seek out contractors…

“Hey, I'm currently a licensed electrician and my company has indentured me into HVAC to get my Red Seal for it. Just curious what tools I should get and what brands. Any suggestions are appreciated, thanks guys. submitted by /u/WasteDeer4161 [link] [comments]”

submitted by /u/HemiWarrior [link] [comments]

“Thought I was going to start-up a water heater yesterday. "The manual didn't say what type of vent we were supposed to use." 🤦 submitted by /u/ukedontsay [link] [comments]”

“Got my first job out of tradeschool, and the first day that I go to work the guy training me didn’t have a single tool.Luckily I had bought my own tools. Then the second day we were doing an evaporator coil clean and he was asking me if I had a tubing cutter. At this point I was very confused because what if I didn’t have one, and then when we were doing a pumpdown he says the “safety” from the compressor wasn’t allowing more refrigerant to go in so he vents the remaining refrigerant from the sy”

“Just started as a Commerical / industrial hvac appetince and I barely know the thermostat wires by heart and I know the refridgation cycle but man I am so lost on everything else How long did it take yall to learn n retain ? submitted by /u/ApprehensiveCase4567 [link] [comments]”

“My boyfriend got hired at his first hvac company so I was looking at what I should get him supplies wise. We live in Arizona so I’m worried about him getting heatstroke. So far in my Amazon cart I just have a clip on fan and a gallon sized water bottle and a lunch box. Is there anything else he should have to stay cool? Are steel toed boots recommended in this type of work? He starts on Monday and I’m so proud of him. I just want him to be prepared for his first day and to stay cool moving forwa”

“What is the secret to find an honest HVAC company in the Bay Area? I had a few techs come out, hook up a couple of Amazon multimeters and immediately diagnose a bad compressor or TXV. Quoted TXV replacement was $2,495! Yeah, you read that right, and that’s for a threaded TXV. Any recommendations? Thanks. submitted by /u/Direct_Condition_778 [link] [comments]”

“All though my boss did help me do the low volt,put it on vacuum and put charge. submitted by /u/Appropriate-Web5621 [link] [comments]”

“Brand new basement install, I don't know if my hvac tech is just lazy/does ugly work or if this setup is problematic/unsafe. submitted by /u/treesarehappy [link] [comments]”

“What hours can you expect? Is it like any other field where the new people get the worst shifts ? submitted by /u/Imaginary_Alarm_356 [link] [comments]”

“Hey everyone, I was finally accepted as an HVAC/R helper. Shook hands with the boss and lead tech, gave me list of tools I will need, was honest I was green and boss even told me "it's obvious, you have the cleanest clothes here 😁" anyway I start in a week, I would want this long term and hopefully become certified journeyman someday. What should I expect? What should I do to be successful? Lead tech said I am in probation and would have an evaluation after 3 months to see if they”

“Not sure if this is the right sub but i’m looking to get into HVAC but don’t really know where to start. I’m 32, I was in IT helpdesk for 3 years but became unemployed and now work a security job. The problem is i HATE sitting down for 8 hours a day doing nothing. I like to move around and do stuff. HVAC has been on my mind for a while and wanted to know how to get started. I want to get into a career where i can grow and make something out of myself. I have kids so stability is important to me”

“You know.. there are other options not named tornador and most only require 4 cfm which would save you money”

“Since i started hvac ive done strictly commercial with very little residential experience. This past weekend helped a buddy out putting in a new system for him just trying to get some tips on what i did right/wrong and what i could do to make it better. The biggest pain for me was getting the wiring to look good on the side of the unit. submitted by /u/ZachS32 [link] [comments]”

“Hey pressure pals, I’m looking at getting a unit this Labor Day. There’s some pretty good discounts in my area for 3600 PSI 2.5 GPM Simpson units with the AAA pump. I recognize the gold standard is 4 GPM for commercial use but how many of you use a buffer tank? I’m interested in doing residential projects; I know a 4 GPM will cut work times but I’m leery of having to a buffer tank, I’d really like to keep my setup streamlined and hook up to client water source and go. From my research in my area”

“Anybody ever worked for or have any experience with RUI (Refrigeration Unlimited)? I’m potentially starting an HVAC service apprenticeship with them through UA 290. submitted by /u/JustinSRE [link] [comments]”

“I am cursed with being able to and wanting to do everything myself. So naturally I bought a vacuum pump, micron guage, and torque wrenches when my mini split died. And why not replace two systems in the crawl space while I'm at it? A 2-ton ducted mini split heat pump cost about $3,000. I'm sure I can do this. But the ductwork! The quotes I'm getting are insane. So Google Gemini just designed my ductwork. And the more I think about it the closer I am to doing this too. But what I real”

“ying to disconnect anything will just crumble in your hands, then you're really in trouble. If the discharge pipe is too short you can extend it with a coupling but honestly this whole setup looks so far gone I'd call someone before you end up with a flooded basement and a mouthful of rust water.”

“Hello. I'm an apprentice and I have been tasked to take this double capacitor (45u & 15u fan) unit and convert this 1 pole contactor to a 2 pole contactor by tomorrow 3pm. I need help learning this. I want to map it out and do it on paper first and get it done properly so I can learn and understand it and then also to impress with my work. What's the best way to figure this out? Is there a website or something I can go to for reference and guidance? Also, how difficult is this task o”

“I'm learning about automotive HVAC systems at a trade school and my instructor made some assertions that I'm not totally convinced with so I wanted a second opinion from professionals. The first is the affect atmospheric pressure has on an HVAC system. My instructor asserts that ambient air pressure will affect the performance of the A/C system. Since the refrigeration system is closed to atmosphere, I wouldn't think that alone would have an affect on the cooling ability. It's my”

“I have a return vent upstairs. I’m confused what is what. Please recommend where to drill an aroma tube. submitted by /u/JeanDoughThough [link] [comments]”

“Hey fellow trade peeps. I just invested in a hot wire anemometer because I don't think manufacturer manuals with a manometer cuts it for me when trying to measure actual CFM. Time and time again I have come across proper static pressure and CFM based off of the charts corresponding to it and still coming up with poor Delta T. Subcooling will be spot on, superheat will be good, pressures will look right, static is good, yet I've done QA on installs for brand new 454B units and they're”

“[Was suggested by mods from “HVAC” to post here instead] Been doing HVAC for 6 years now (Non-union, mostly service calls) been working out of a SUV or whatever I can get. I would love to get my own van/truck. New prices are crazy high and getting something used can be risky (although would an older GM van/pickup) Those who started out or if being on my place, what would you recommend? Sure I can get a new vehicle and barely scrape by monthly payments (lease or finance?), get a good condition va”

“I’m new but learning quickly but would love to talk to people in the field to help me understand more thoroughly. submitted by /u/ThrawnGrandAdmiral66 [link] [comments]”

“I mean I have noticed around me people have rigid machines for far less then what they were new and usually only used once. I’ve seen the k50 and I know that’s like rigids holy grail. I’ve never used one but I know they have been around since like the 70s or something. Did see some of those for sale on FB a lot cheaper too”

“Real talk? When you start out, Vevor is your friend. You get your money's worth while you work up to the good shit. A ridgid k50 is super versatile and what I would recommend, but is kinda pricey. If you get a vevor first and save a portion of every drain cleaning, you can afford one in 10-20 calls”

“I’m seriously considering HVAC/refrigeration as a career and I’m trying to learn as much as I can before committing to it. I’m basically starting from zero I don’t have an HVAC background and don’t really know much about the trade yet. I’m planning on getting my GED and then potentially going to trade school, but I want to hear from people actually working in HVAC/R before I make any decisions. I’d really appreciate honest answers about pretty much everything: **Getting started / schooling** How”

“Beginning of summer I found the AC system too low on charge to run due to a leaky oring on low side. Replaced the ring, filled it back up and ran fine for 6wks. Noticed wasn't blowing as cold, so checked charge and noticed it was again a bit low. I also noticed when I took the low side cap off, a slight and short hiss would happen as I unscrewed the cap. So I think I have a very slow leak out of Schrader valve. Car is a 2014 Impreza. Ive read about the pressurized valve removal tools...seems”

“So I'm 26M in Canada and I've worked all sorts of random jobs over the years none of which have anything to do with HVAC, But I have decided that I want to do HVAC as a career since I'm told they are in high demand. I've watched a few videos on YouTube and I'm still trying to figure out where to start. If I should go to a college or trade school for it or drive around town asking every HVAC company if they will take me in as a helper? submitted by /u/Demonetised19”

“Recently started doing hvac, i mostly do installs and need a bag. I dont have too many tools yet. Ive got the basics screwdrivers, hammer, impact, files, pipe cutters, flaring kit etc and need a bag to fit them. I will be getting some more tools as i go on. Hopefully something a bit more budget friendly. Any advice for one? submitted by /u/Sinful862 [link] [comments]”

“I have a new pump but I don't know how to bleed the air in the system. Can someone give me a few pointers or a direction on what to do? submitted by /u/nitrodmr [link] [comments]”

“Well, I think we shot ourselves in the foot. We lost our compressor of 20 years last week, the tech came out, and verified it was dead. We discussed new systems and decided a full upgrade was our best route. We signed up for Carrier's 18-month deferred financing and went for an install the very next day on 8/7. They installed a Carrier 2-stage furnace, 2-stage heat pump, and indoor coil. Here are the exact model numbers from the equipment stickers: Outdoor Unit (Heat Pump 3T): 25TPA736A003 F”

“Let me start by saying I am a HVAC tech but I'm having a hard time posting on r/HVAC . Stumped on this one, want to see what you guys think. I'm working on a fairly new Rheem R410A 3ton RD17AZ, this system will freeze up occasionally. This unit is wired up as a 2 stage system and the freezing up appears to only happen in second stage. After letting the system run for a bit I am getting any from 95psi to 103psi on the side and about 256psi on the high side and I have 14° of subcooling acc”

“Hey y'all, I took up a job as an HVAC installer. I start Monday. Do y'all have any tips or tricks for me as a green guy who has no experience? submitted by /u/sidthesloth121 [link] [comments]”

“Hey I’m fairly new to the field and I work for a mom and pop company and they aren’t able to pay for my tools but I am more than willing to invest in myself what’s the best bang for my buck. I also want to make sure that my sniffer is compliant with manufacturer. I recently went on a call with my boss and they were giving him a bad time because his sniffer wasn’t a certified sniffer. Any suggestions would be helpful submitted by /u/King_Bunta [link] [comments]”

“Hi everyone, Disclaimer: translated from Italian, so some technical terms might not be 100% accurate. As an installer, I keep running into disagreements with colleagues about the initial leak test method for residential systems (mono-split or multi-split). Some prefer doing a vacuum leak test (using a digital vacuum gauge specifically). Others pressurize with nitrogen at around 40 bar instead. Usually, whoever uses one method strongly advises against the other. What do you use, and why? Let'”

“One step above handyman. Thinking send any kid out these days, since you'll notice that they're using ProPress connections. You literally don't have to have any skills at all to do this job, except to be able to turn wrenches, and use an automatic tool to clamp pipe together. The people that did this work, have little,or no interest, or ability, to do a professional job. Hanging that tank, using plastic hanger cable, should tell you everything you need to know. I understand you might”

“Work alone on a condenser coil swap in 90+ degree heat or with a brand new guy with zero experience? submitted by /u/Eddies_Current [link] [comments]”

“Hi- I'm looking for how to best set up my system on my top floor. Located in Houston. I have a 3.5T single speed unit (I think from 2016) with 2 zones, one for the main floor, the other for top floor. The main floor is probably 2x the sq ft and has higher ceilings while the top floor is smaller, normal height. If the top floor is the only zone on, the cycle is about 5 minutes, which I understand to probably be too short. I have a Nest and set it to have a 1 degree band and minimum on time of”

“It's the Yitahome 3 zone x 9000 btu, it can be found on Amazon. I'm pretty sure I'm wrong about some things, I'm just trying to figure out what. The compressor is pre-charged, the service valves are closed (keeping it pre-charged) and I need to connect and vacuum the lines to rhe evaporator before opening the service valves. Before connecting the evaporator lines to the unit, and with the service valves off, if I connect the vacuum to the vacuum port, I get -14.7 psi within a few”

“Hi and THANKS IN ADVANCE! I have done this in my older house long time ago but it wasn't as bad, so i think I'll need advice on a good: coil cleaning solution (*really safe* to use around food, pets&kids) Coil cleaning brush (i know, being gentle is the key) Blower cleaning brush (or if its just dust i can use a lil tooth brush+ compressed air? I don't want to mess with pulling the motor itself, just pulling blower off the AH) Should i use any type of solution for that r”

“Thinking of getting either sata fresh air system or 3m papr. Which one do you like better? Our shop has a big screw drive compressor and we spray spies hecker water btw. Thanks in advance submitted by /u/Eyerace [link] [comments]”

“I work in property management. We recharge our units basically to get people through the summer whenever there’s a unit with low refrigerant. I Every time I’m disconnecting the high side, I get hit pretty bad with Freon and it always makes me panic. It’s not a crazy amount, but a lot more than I have seen hvac techs lose when they disconnect. I try to do it fast as hell to avoid it but it seems that it always happens. Am I doing something wrong? Should I invest in quick connects? submitted”

“Yes please! Im a DIY homeowner and have taught myself to solder, but would love to have this as a backup in those tough situations. Can you recommend some brands you use for the fittings? Thank you! 🙏🏼”

“Got a new job at an apartment complex. They use comfort pack and magic pack gas units. Gas, forced air. The wiring is a little different and I’m having trouble diagnose electrical issues these first few days. The condenser and blower motors seem to be interconnected? The squirrel cage is practically inaccessible. Checking charge seems to not be possible unless you pull the whole ac out? Idk I just wanna make sure I’m doing things right any help would be appreciated. submitted by /u/A”

“Is it standard practice to reuse refrigerant lines with a new install? submitted by /u/No-King7246 [link] [comments]”

“Dumb question everybody:) I see a compressor on the left. What is the smaller compressor in bottom right? And what is the canister looking black thing in front of them? submitted by /u/No_Statistician9772 [link] [comments]”

A few months ago I posted about my heat pump install. https://www.reddit.com/r/hvacadvice/s/vl24o47wnz We are still going back and forth with the dealer and I'm hoping some of you can help answer questions…

“I'm planning on putting in an ERV. I'm looking at this Ortech 120cfm unit (ODD-ERV-120). Its specs seem OK and the company seems legit but there's not much/any discussion about these models on the internet, compared to Lifebreath, Venmar, etc. Anyone know if these are decent? submitted by /u/speedy_bee [link] [comments]”

“Went on a no cool call today for a geothermal heat pump system. Check my ABC's first thing to confirm major components working, evaporator coil clean, pump is running, clean filter, open supply registers,etc. Compressor not running but I am getting a call from the t-stat. Contactor not pulling in, check my safeties and find an open low pressure switch. Manually push in the contactor to confirm compressor is operating. With gauges hooked up both my low and high side pressures start jumping up”

“Working on a Carrier 38MARBQ09AA3 and the board wouldn't ever tell the EEV to open up past step 35. The line and coil would freeze up immediately (and no, there isn't a leak). So, I checked all the sensor data using the inquiry mode and found all the sensors giving me 90-degree readings on a 90-degree day except the discharge line sensor which was way lower. Called tech support to see what they thought, and the guy told me to replace the sensor. So, I put the new sensor in and my reading”

“Does anyone have any tips or tool recommendations to make life easier when terminating gear? I want to get better and more efficient. submitted by /u/Buk0w3 [link] [comments]”

“I'm in the process of installing a used unit that's been tested. What's the best method to cut the lines in preparation for brazing onto the house line set? As shown in the pic, part of the old lines need to be removed. Will there enough line to swage if the old brazed portions are completely removed? https://imgur.com/a/Hqki2Sg#OKlXIrm submitted by /u/RockyPoint69 [link] [comments]”