Tools, Vehicles
& Inventory

Essential Startup Tools

You don't need everything on day one - start with the essentials and add as your business grows and revenue allows. Here's a prioritized startup list:

Must-Have (Day One)

Day-one tool investment: $2,500 - $6,500 for a capable basic setup.

Add Later (First Year)

• Combustion analyzer - for gas furnace efficiency and CO testing ($500-$1,500)
• Duct pressure testing kit - growing requirement for energy compliance ($500-$2,000)
• Pipe bender set - for copper line routing
• Reciprocating saw, hole saws - equipment installation
• Refrigerant identifier - for servicing unknown systems ($500-$1,500)

Service Vehicle Setup

Your van or truck is your mobile shop and your calling card. Customers see it in their driveway - a clean, organized, professionally branded vehicle builds trust before you knock on the door.

Vehicle Requirements

• Size: A full-size cargo van (Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, Mercedes Sprinter) or 3/4-ton pickup with service body or enclosed trailer. You need more space than you think.
• Racking and organization: Invest in proper metal shelving and bins. An organized van means faster service calls - you're not searching for parts. Options: Adrian Steel, Weather Guard, Ranger Design ($1,500-$5,000 installed).
• Signage: Magnetic signs minimum; vinyl wrap if budget allows. Include company name, phone number, website, and your license number. A wrapped van is a rolling billboard.
• Cleanliness: Keep it clean. A dirty van signals to customers that you're sloppy in your work too. Invest 20 minutes at the end of each day.

Inventory Management

Carrying the right stock on your truck means faster service and fewer return trips (which kill your profitability). Stock commonly needed items:

• Capacitors - run and dual-run, common sizes (5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 MFD + 5 MFD fan sections)
• Contactors - 1-pole and 2-pole, 24V coil, 30A and 40A
• Thermostat and disconnect fuses
• Control boards (common platforms for top brands in your market)
• Flame sensors (universal and brand-specific for common furnaces in your area)
• Ignitors (silicon carbide and silicon nitride, common sizes)
• Refrigerant - R-410A, R-22 (reclaimed), and whatever other types are common in your market
• Filters (common sizes)
• Drain line parts - fittings, PVC cement, float switches