Apprentice loadout?

[thetoolguy37]

Hello, I am a looking for what are the ideal tools for a HVAC apprentice? Assume my budget is not a problem, Veto pro, Knipex, Channellock code blue, Fluke, Snap on, M12, Klein, Wiha, whatever is the best tool not brand. I am looking for tools to make a bag for diagnosis for now. I would like suggestions from those who are in the field and have seen what apprentices should have had on the first day and didn't. <- I want to start well grounded immediately where I can, tools can be "one and done" faster then the knowledge and skill. I want to get the tools, learn, learn, and go to work. I would prefer if the set up was minimal, efficient, and effective. I look forward to your ideas. Thank you.

 

[PoorUB]

A lot of this depends on whether you are commercial or residential. Snips, tinner hammer, volt meter with amp clamp, set of adjustable wrenches, slip joint pliers, AC gauges or probes, screw drives, nut drivers side cutters, wire stripper/crimper. The list can go on. I carries a set of combination wrenches, 3/8ths and 1/4" sockets, pipe wrenches, cordless drill and driver. some tools were left in the truck unless needed. Not everything needs to go in the tool bag. Some shops provide some tools, some shops, not a thing. I didn't mention brands as it is a blond, brunette or redhead discussion, but I swear buy Fluke meters, nothing else comes close.
I wouldn't expect an apprentice to show up with every tool known, but a handful of basic tools would be acceptable.

 

[Snapped-off]

Your journeyman should be able to guide you to what you'll need starting out better than any of us here.

Pretty big differences between residential/ commercial/ industrial/ mission critical.

You'd spend most of your time cleaning coils Spring - Fall if you were over here. I'd suggest a wide brim hat for the sun, along with a large water bottle.

 

[danski0224]

Hello, I am a looking for what are the ideal tools for a HVAC apprentice?

If you are in a union apprenticeship, there should be a tool list. The unions i am familiar with all have such a list.

Tools add up fast.

It's easy to buy something to "make your job easier", but I have yet to experience anything coming back my way for "extra" stuff brought onto a job, and it can also be extraordinary difficult to "make your own conditions" (nor is that defined in a union contract- despite hearing it quite frequently).

"Making your job easier" ultimately cuts your wages as an hourly employee, and puts more money in the boss' pocket. Many people I have worked with do not understand this basic relationship.

I would suggest caution for buying any tools before starting the job, outside of what the apprentice program requires.

It is difficult to sometimes say no and not buy that thing, and it can cause job loss at the typical ****** employer. And then there are your coworkers that show up in a truck or van (their own) full of tools that are provided for free to the employer- your own union brothers and sisters are ******* you.

 

[fitter30]

HVAC apprentice have you been to a trade school? Been hired at a company? Either should have a tool list. UA apprentice probably will have all tools paid for. Vacuum pump , torch and drill motor or 1/4" hex driver will be provided.

 

[karoc]

Don’t get into residential, 10 years of attics with 140 during summer. Not exaggerating, try get into commercial, what I did. Lots of LU’s and open shops are looking for help. If your Vet include that info

 

[danski0224]

Don’t get into residential

Would agree with this 101%.

And yes, attics are hot, but so are rooftops. And ******* all of your **** up the ladder that gets there... before doing any work.

Don't be mislead that one side is easier than the other.

 

[karoc]

Would agree with this 101%.

And yes, attics are hot, but so are rooftops. And ******* all of your **** up the ladder that gets there... before doing any work.

Don't be mislead that one side is easier than the other.

So true, one building I took care of had 29 RTU’s Engineer Air units from 10 ton to 30 ton units. As you know being on roof for hrs I now dealing with little skin cancer on my bald head. Nothing is easy, except retirement lifeHas its moments

 

[PhantomEB]

Me a union Millwright, don’t even bother reaching for the snap on in my own home workshop!