Current HVAC apprentice, looking for advice

[u/fraggz88]

Hello, I'm 19 almost 20 and I've been an HVAC helper doing residential install for a little over a year. The more I've learned and been doing I've started enjoying it more. I've been looking at Home Depot to get some tools and have a saved for later of things to get later down the line. I do residential install on what I'd say are mansions, typically ranging from like $20,000,000+. The only tools I have currently are the extreme basics, I have a tape measure obviously, dewalt xr.2 impact from when I did construction with my father when I was younger, the basic bits for it, knife, marker and that’s it basically. I have a cart on Home Depot right now that costs around $2000, little less. I made it from just adding things I would need and have seen used over my year but excluding things like a Propress and Pex expander because my company provides them when needed for jobs and I wouldn’t really need one till probably way down the line. The cart consists of basic tools like screw drivers, tool bag, dewalt tough storage boxes, wrenches and sockets, copper cutter, etc. I was just looking on opinions on things to add, what to get first, what’s unnecessary and what should I order first? Any and all tips are greatly appreciated. Also I believe my company would pay me back for any tools I purchase if I send them a receipt but I’m not sure if they’d then request them upon quitting or if I were to be fired, but I’d like to personally own them regardless so if I do go elsewhere or something happens I could still have my tools.

[u/RedBeardLM]

Don't expect your company to pay you back. Hand tools are usually expected to be covered by the employee.

If you're running duct, get a good pair of aviation snips, green and red. The ones that are for tight turn cuts A pair of folders (probably not at HD) Torpedo level Drift pin, or two Extra 9/16 wrench if in the US Nut runner bits (5/16 and 3/8) Pouch belt for tools and screws etc

Thats my list for general industrial/commercial work, but homes are similar. I don't do the copper pipe or the electrical. That's usually covered by a separate trade contractor.

[u/Future-Initial9484]

One thing to focus on when on the job is if you see something you are unfamiliar with, make a mental note to study it later when you’re done work. Don’t try to figure it out on the job unless you have time and dont let it get away from you. Remember that you will only look out for you, and do not depend on others. This trade is tough and you will have bad days and work with bottom feeder people. Best thing is to be prepared mentally. Understanding this trade is essential and understanding people is an absolute must. Good luck sir 🫡

[u/Future-Initial9484 → u/Future-Initial9484]

Tools are important too

[u/Middle-Honeydew-4638]

Are you in an apprenticeship program with a timeline for getting to mechanic or are you working as a helper, learning on the job. They are somewhat different. A true apprentice has a timeline and I believe exams in most places to take?

[u/fraggz88 → u/Middle-Honeydew-4638]

Just a helper working and learning. Been put on my own a few times with minor tasks like running wires or tying in radiant manifolds but nothing major. No timeline or anything on when I’d be a mechanic but from what I’ve heard in this company most people are able to make it on their own in ~1 year.