Tools for Air Conditioning Service
Air conditioning technicians work on a variety of many types of air conditioners both old and new. Consequently, they must carry a large assortment of tools for air conditioning service. Repairs, maintenance and installation usually involve standardized tools in the industry, but some jobs indicate the use of specialized tools for welding and mechanics. An average days work may include replacing mechanical parts, testing electrical problems, measuring air flow or restoring coolant levels.
Anemometers
Every HVAC repairman carries anemometers. This important tool gauges the air velocity from the fan of the AC unit and the home's air ducts. Newer anemometers may also record the temperature coming from an air duct.
Refrigerant Tools
Before removing or refilling coolant, gauges must be used to determine coolant levels in the air conditioning system. Older systems may require using hoses with nozzles in conjunction with gauges to check airflow pressure and volume. Newer technology now supports easy to read digital displays. Servicemen use vacuum pumps and refrigerant tanks to empty coolant or recharge refrigerant in air conditioners.
Electrical Tools
Digital clamp meters can be used in day-to-day operations to establish voltage amounts entering the AC (air conditioning) unit. Too much or too little voltage may result in the AC not working efficiently.
Basic electrical tools are always included in the list of standard tools required for electrical testing. These include wire nuts, wire strippers and digital thermometers.
To measure resistance, current and voltage a volt-ohm-millimeter is used with either an analogue or digital display.
Hand Tools
Basic tools always include socket sets, pliers, screwdrivers, drills and wrenches. Other assorted hand tools that may be required for some jobs include T-handle hex key sets, crimpers, ratchet sets and sheet metal snips.
Miscellaneous Tools
Air conditioning servicemen learn quickly to carry odd assortments of hardware, screws and a variety of bolts. Soldering tools come in handy for repairing or replacing copper tubing. Cheap plastic zip ties simplify securing or bundling wires and cables.