Best HVAC tools for productivity and cost savings
Having the right equipment on the job saves you time and increases productivity. Whether you prioritize cost savings or are looking to purchase top-of-the-line HVAC tools, Ferguson is here to keep your toolkit stocked for the upcoming busy season. Browse the newest cordless HVAC tools for faster installations and compare them to tried-and-true alternatives so you can tackle whatever the job throws at you.
Cordless HVAC pipe cutters
HVAC technicians use cordless drills and nut drivers on nearly every job – and soon, the same will be said for battery-operated pipe cutters. Why now? Cordless tools are more powerful than ever, offering brushless motors, longer run times, and faster charging. Not only that, they save technicians time, reduce hand/wrist fatigue, provide cleaner cuts, and offer versatile attachments.
Pro tip: Like manual pipe cutters, not all blades are rated to handle all pipe materials. Check blade compatibility before cutting the pipe.
Should I get a battery-operated pipe cutter for HVAC work?
Battery-operated pipe cutters are especially useful in the following scenarios:
Large HVAC installations or commercial projects: Battery-operated pipe cutters are especially useful on commercial projects because of their speed and ease. Furthermore, they offer precision cuts to ensure leak-free connections. This helps you tackle big projects in less time and without setbacks.
Tight spaces: Cordless pipe cutters come in handy when elbow room is limited. They require less maneuvering, and you can generally operate them one-handed.
Precision cuts: A huge benefit of high-force pipe cutters is that they provide clean, precise cuts. If your manual cutters leave jagged edges, then there is a high likelihood of a future leak.
Types of HVAC pipe cutters
HVAC technicians stock their tool bags with various types of pipe cutters, so they are prepared to handle any job. Whether dealing with tight clearances, cutting metal or plastic materials, or reaching for speed, here are the most common pipe cutters used by HVAC professionals.
| Pipe Cutter Types | Benefits | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| Cordless Pipe Cutters | High torque, Reduced wrist strain, Precise, burr-free cuts, Compact design for working in tight spaces, Versatility, Consistency | Press Snap™ 1 ½”-4” soil cutter for stainless steel |
| Ratcheting Cutters | Clean, square, burrless cuts, Quick-change blades, Ratcheting mechanism reduces required force | RIGID ⅛”-1 ⅝” CPVC, PE, PEX, PP, PVC, Rubber hose pipe cutter |
| Tube Cutters | Clean cuts, Works well in compact areas, Knob provides a strong grip, Quick-change cutter wheels | RIGID Model 151 ¼”-1 ⅝” tube cutter for stainless steel |
| Compact/Tight Space Tubing Cutters | Compact design, Cuts tubes with limited clearance, Snap it on the tube and turn, Fast, single-handed cuts | Raptor ½” auto ratcheting pipe cutter |
Pro tip: Keep your cutters sharp. Jagged cuts are more prone to leaks.
HVAC cordless press tools
Traditionally, copper lines require brazing to create leak-free connections; however, HVAC press tools are quickly becoming the more common alternative for joining copper, stainless steel, and PEX piping. That’s because quality HVAC press tools enhance safety, increase speed, and improve the system’s lifespan. This is especially true for commercial applications and projects with limited space. Although there is an upfront investment when buying HVAC press tools, the time savings will likely make up for the expense.
To help you select the best option for your business, here's a look at some of the most popular HVAC press tools we offer at Ferguson. These models represent a great range of capabilities from trusted brands for both small and large-scale jobs.
| Features | Pipe Size | Weight | Cost* | Service | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee M12™ Force Logic™ Cordless Press Tool | Cut, fasten and connect all in one system, One-hand operation | ½” - 1 ¼” | 3.8 lbs | $1,949 | Every 32,000 cycles | Buy Now |
| Milwaukee M18™ Force Logic™ Cordless Press Tool Kit with One-Key™ and ½”-2” CTS Jaws | Brushless motor, 20% more run time, Compatible with over 20 fitting systems, Indicator light for complete press, Wireless reporting | ½” - 4” | 6.5 lbs | $4,199 | Every 50,000 cycles | Buy Now |
| RIGID ProPress® RP 350 Press Tool Kit with ½”-2” Jaws | Brushless motor, One-hand operation with 360º head swivel, Kit offers cut and fasten attachments, Indicator light for complete press, Bluetooth connectivity | ½” - 4” | 7.1 lbs | $4,202.54 | Over 100,000 cycles - no scheduled maintenance necessary | Buy Now |
*Prices may vary. Please log in to your Ferguson account to view your pricing.
Pipe repair tools every HVAC technician needs in their toolkit
In addition to your everyday HVAC tools, like snips, crimpers, and pipe cutters, it’s important to have a few specialty pipe repair tools on hand. For example, use a pipe swaging tool to reshape tube ends for a cleaner connection.
Here’s a quick pipe repair kit checklist:
- Nipple extractors - Also known as stub wrenches, remove broken or frozen pipe nipples without damaging pipe threads. Various sizes available.
- Pipe extractors - Easily remove stuck threaded pipe ends, pipe plugs, and fittings. Available for schedule 40 and 80 pipe.
- Socket saver - Use with schedule 40 pipe only. Attach a socket saver, such as the Raptor® 1 ½” socket saver, to a power drill to remove plastic pipe from plastic fittings.
- Pipe reamer - After cutting PVC and copper pipes, use a pipe reamer to remove sharp edges. Having a pipe reamer such as the Reed Clean Ream E reduces labor and material costs because it quickly removes solvent cement residue and cleans condensate drain line fittings.
- Quick sealing pipe wrap - Seal cracks, holes, and leaks in lines, joints, and elbows. Products like the Nu-Calgon Quick Seal 2 x 3 WRAP work on hot, cold, and refrigerant lines, bonding to all types of pipe materials.
- Fiberglass pipe tape repair system - Keep the Indumar Stop It® repair system or a similar pipe repair system on hand to fix a leaking pipe fast.
Must-have HVAC diagnostic tools
When you walk onto a worksite, you never know what type of HVAC problem you’ll encounter. Having dependable diagnostic tools will help you uncover the root of the issue quickly, getting you to the next job faster. Let’s review the most important HVAC diagnostic tools that help increase productivity and prevent callbacks.
| What Does It Do? | Example Uses | Plan to spend (on average) | Buy Now | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infrared Leak Detector | Uses ultrasonic technology to quickly identify temperature differences | Locate duct air leaks, blocked coils, and insulation issues, Identify failing connections | $200 - $500 | Fieldpiece Instruments Infrared Leak Detector |
| Infrared Thermometer | Get faster temperature readings | Measure superheat and subcooling, Identify overheating motor, Verify thermostat accuracy | $20 - $200 | Klein Tools 752 F Max Temperature Dual Laser Infrared Thermometer |
| Clamp Meter | Safely measure high current without breaking the circuit, Measures to the nearest tenth or hundredth | Troubleshoot industrial HVAC systems safely, Measure analog conveyor speed to calibrate systems, Check line speeds | $50 - $250 | Fieldpiece Instruments 400A Clamp Meter Dual Display, Inrush |
| Multimeter | Use a probe contact to precisely measure voltage and resistance, Measures to milliunits | Test thermostats, sensors, motor capacitors, and other key electrical HVAC parts, Diagnose faulty parts | $100 - $300 | Fieldpiece Instruments Stick Style Multimeter Manual Ranging |
| Manifold Pressure Gauge | Measure refrigerant pressure | Check system performance, Measure superheat and subcooling | $100 - $200 | Yellow Jacket® Series 41 R22/404A/410A Refrigerant Manifold with 3 ⅛” Gauges and 60” Plus II™ Hose Set with Standard Fittings |
| Manometer | Check airflow and air pressure | Diagnose airflow restrictions in ductwork, Discover dirty filters and coils | $100 - $250 | Fieldpiece Instruments Dual Port Manometer |
Building an HVAC toolkit to increase productivity and earnings
It takes time to build a robust HVAC toolkit, but each addition will help you increase efficiency. From nut drivers to pipe threading machines, get tools that last. Shop Ferguson’s HVAC pipe cutters, pressing tools, preparation tools, and repair tools.