As “smart” HVAC equipment becomes more efficient, the tools used by HVAC technicians have to keep pace. So, the Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration (ACHR) News asked its advisory contractors to rank today’s top tools of the trade. Industry-standard HVAC tools--Amprobe, Fluke, Testo and UEi clamp meters, multimeters, and manometers--were all given high marks. These are industry “go-to” tools for measuring pressure, voltage, current, and temperatures. The DeWalt cordless drill also figured among the top tool picks because of its usefulness in removing panels, covers and controls, among other functions. A couple of tools chosen as “must-haves” by HVAC contractors were fairly surprising, from an industry standpoint. Try Apple’s iPhone, iPad and iPad Mini! It makes sense why these devices are loved by HVAC technicians. Today’s smartphones are comfortable to use, convenient, and packed with innovative technology. HVAC techs are using them for everything from work orders and service reports to GPS references and project submittals. And tablets, like the iPad, can easily become a service person’s most-used tool because it enables real-time collaboration among field workers, managers and administrative staff. They are useful for so many aspects of day-to-day operations.