Best HVAC Hand Tools for 2024

As an HVAC technician, you always want the best tools while on the job, lest you have to run to Home Depot middle of the day for a replacement. Reliable hand tools are just as important as the most advanced power tools. Gone are the days where you had to spend countless hours pouring through internet reviews or buying the first tool you see pop up on Amazon’s sponsored ads, only for it to break days later. Below, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you and collected some brands and models of the best HVAC hand tools for 2024. 

Leatherman Wave+ Multitool

Source: Leatherman

The Leatherman Wave+ is the best multitool the market has to offer this 2024, making HVAC jobs all around quicker and easier. If you’re looking for a tool that’ll save you space on the truck and weight in your hand for those awkward, tight spaces, then go ahead and attach it to your toolbelt with its convenient and practical built-in clip. The Wave+ can do the work of 18 tools in one. It has wire strippers and cutters, spring action scissors, regular and needle nose pliers and a saw, among many other useful HVAC hand tools that’ll help you make those little snips and clips on the job.

• Price: $119.25
• Weight: 8.5 oz
• Closed Length: 4 in
• Open Length: 6.25 in
• Material: Stainless Steel
• Warranty: 25 Years

RIDGID 31100 Model 818 Aluminum Straight Pipe Wrench

Source: Amazon

Having an adaptable pipe wrench is necessary for making on-the-fly installations and repairs for a variety of pipe sizes, maxing out at 2-½”. The RIDGID 31100 pipe wrench is one of the best HVAC hand tools because it's crafted from lightweight yet sturdy aluminum. Weighing only 3.8 pounds, it’s one of the lighter HVAC hand tools you’ll find on the market this 2024. This wrench features alloy steel hook jaws and self-cleaning threads for a powerful grip and durable yet convenient design, all bundled into one must-have tool. 

• Price: $74.97
• Weight: 3.8 lb
• Length: 18 in.
• Jaw Capacity: 2.5 in.
• Material: Aluminum

Klein Tools 32304 14-in-1 Screwdriver

Source: Klein Tools

The Klein Tools 14-in-1 Adjustable-Length Screwdriver with a flip socket is essential for every HVAC toolbox. The handle doubles as storage for the two ¼” and 5/16” nut drivers and 12 driver bits for easy access, saving space in the tool bag and on the truck. It also comes with an adjustable length blade (which can also be used with an impact driver) that allows HVAC techs to service those hard-to-reach or tight places without the need for multiple tools. The cushioned, comfort grip handle is ergonomics at its best, allowing you to fasten and impact drive for hours without feeling fatigued.

• Price: $29.97
• Nut Driver Sizes: 5/16”, 1/4”
• Phillips Bits: #1, #2, #3
• Slotted Bits: ⅛”, 1/4”, 3/16”
• Square Bits: #2
• Torx Bits: T10, T15
• Other Bits: #2 Jis Bit, Schrader Valve Insertion Bit, Core Removal Bit
• Length: 9.72”
• Material: Steel Barrel 

Klein Tools 80020 Tool Set

Source: Amazon

You always need a variety of pliers for HVAC work, and Klein Tools are reliable for the task. Their 3-piece kit includes the essential 3 pliers you could use for work, including needle nose pliers, lineman pliers and diagonal cutters. With a comfortable grip, the handles absorb kickback from wire cutting. Plus, they have extended handles for reaching into tight spaces. 

• Price: $69.99
• Set: 3 Pieces
• Size: 8 in.
• Material: Steel

Wirefy Ratcheting Crimping Tool For Insulated Electrical Connectors

Source: Wirefy

Included in the list of best HVAC hand tools for 2024 is the Wirefy ratcheting crimper for insulated nylon connectors. Among its abundance of features is an ergonomic handle that maximizes leverage without fatiguing the hand, a quick-release lever and an adjustable compression wheel to crimp AWG 10-22 insulated nylon terminals. The best indicator of quality in any hand tool is a lifetime warranty, which Wirefy offers with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Amazon reviewers rave about its quality, ease of use and sturdiness, making this the go-to hand tool for when the job calls for making electrical connections.

• Price: $23.99
• Cavities: 22–18 AWG (Red), 16–14 AWG (Blue) and 12–10 AWG (Yellow)
• Weight: 1.21 lbs
• Handle Length: 6 in.
• Material: Carbon Steel
• Warranty: Lifetime

Klein Tools 11063W Wire Cutter

Source: Klein Tools

The Klein Tool 11063 wire stripper is a no-fuss and lightweight tool to add to your kit. This durable tool is crafted from cast alloy chassis with an Ecoat finish and is designed to withstand daily use and long-term corrosion. It’s able to strip and cut a variety of standard wire sizes, including 8-20 AWG solid and 10-22 AWG stranded wires. The lean nose design is great for pulling and looping wire, helping navigate and prevent tangling. With a comfortable grip, you won’t remember how you lasted without this tool. 

• Price: $29.97
• Length: 6.594 in.
• Wire: 8-20 AWG Solid and 10-22 AWG Stranded 
• Material: Cast Alloy Chassis with Heavy-Duty Ecoat Finish
• Weight: 12 oz.

Wera Tools 05073593001 950 SPKL/9 SM N SB Long ARM HEX Key Set

Source: Amazon

Always an essential to have on you, this compact kit has 9 pieces to solve all your Allen wrench needs. The Wera Long Arm Hex Key Set features all the sizes you need, from 1.5-10mm. Better yet, the sizes are laser engraved in a readable, wear-resistant font, so you can’t put your readers away. Not that you’ll need it with its color-coded organization system that aids in quick and accurate tool retrieval for any task. Each Allen wrench has a hexagonal ball end for off-center access that protects against slipping, stripping and rounding. And its plastic sleeve protects your hands from the cold while tackling outdoor work in the fall and winter, making it one of the best HVAC hand tools around.

• Price: $38.39
• Material: Blend
• Size: 1.5-10mm
• Pieces: 9 Hex Keys

UEi Test Instruments PDT650 Folding Pocket Digital Thermometer

Source: UEi Test Instruments 

Another one of the best HVAC hand tools for technicians can’t live without is their thermometers for system diagnostics and running temperature differentials, and UEi Test Instruments has the best of the best at the fairest price. The back folding, compact design makes it perfect for transporting from job to job. Even better, the adjustable probe with a magnetic mount is capable of taking readings even while folded, making it ideal for measuring true RMS temperatures anywhere from 58-572°F in ambient air, solids or liquids. UEi Test Instruments backs its quality with a limited 3-year warranty, proving that top-notch quality doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag.

• Price: $21.99
• Temperature Scale: 58-572°F
• Probe Length: 3.5 in
• Warranty: 3-Year Limited Warranty 

From multitools to wire strippers, we listed some amazing hand tools. Looking for a side-by-side comparison of the best multimeter or flashlight? We already compared the best ones to help you decide which tool is right for you.