HVAC tool bags are available in different designs that vary in their layout, size, and storage capacity, among other features. Since the market is flooded with an endless variety of options, it can get extremely hard to find the one that suits your needs.
Knowing that, we researched several products while focusing on the most important features to compile the bags that provide the best value for money. We have included models with a huge number of pockets and compartments so that all your tools fit. All of the bags are made using sturdy, high-quality materials to last you for long. They are portable with some having padded supporting straps. Don’t forget to check out the best HVAC tool bags with waterproof base if there’s a chance you will often have to place your bag on a wet surface.
More features: 3mm thick polypropylene base
A 3mm thick waterproof base molded with stabilizing injection, an ergonomic grip and extra-wide shoulder straps with paddings are common features of the best tool bag for HVAC, but our Editor’s Choice has a lot more to offer for safe storage and transport of essential equipment.
Veto Pro Pac Tech-MCT Tool Bag suits tall tools like wrenches and pliers. It has glowing reviews by electricians, locksmiths, service mechanics, and HVAC technicians who consider it worth every penny for functionality. It features a patented center panel, reinforced marine grade rivets, zippered pockets on the sides, 7 powder-coated steel D-rings for hanging accessories, and an 8-inch strap for electrical tape. You may have to put multiple items in the double pocket storage compartments to prevent them from flopping around. Some users fixed this by using disk-shaped magnets to hold the tools firmly in place.
It only weighs 5.47 pounds, and there is a top carrying handle and padded shoulder strap with clips for custom fitting and portability. However, this is not a backpack so you may have to sew in an extra strap to transform it into one. Otherwise, it is easier to buy backpack-styled HVAC tool bags offered by the same Company.
We like the durable heavy-duty nylon, foldable front cover, vertical storage for items that are 12-inch high and accessible exterior pockets for drill bits and extensions. The back pockets hold bulkier meters. The drill bit pockets could be bigger, and the weight may feel heavier for buyers who prefer backpacks.
More features: 2 padded handles; comes with a plastic tray
CLC 75-Pocket Tool Backpack is available as a backpack only option or as a backpack with clip-on poly bags that is slightly higher in price. HVAC technicians benefit from a total of 75 pockets housed in 6 zippered compartments that are padded and secured with hook-and-loop closure mechanism. It also comes with loops, sleeves, and a multi-compartment tray of 7 x 5.5 inches for storing tiny tools. The tray is made from plastic while the bag itself features ballistic polyester fabric for durability.
Both the strap and the 2 handles are padded for effortless transport; a welcome quality considering this model is relatively heavier than some of the best HVAC tool bags we reviewed.
The roomy bag measures 9 x 13 x 17.5 inches. The sleeves and pockets vary in their size and styles to accommodate a wide range of essential repair tools on the move. According to the manufacturer, the HVAC tool bag fits a 14-piece wrench set, an extension cable, screwdrivers, testers, electric drills and drill bits, among others.
The Company will freely replace or repair HVAC tool bags that malfunction from normal use, but buyers have to first get a Return Authorization and then pay to ship back the bag.
Although pricy, this is the best backpack tool bag for HVAC that is ideal for all the small equipment you need to successfully complete your repair work. The sheer number of pockets is impressive particularly for several small HVAC tools but it is more difficult to expand or configure the pockets for some sizeable equipment. The stitches on the pockets, shoulder strap and the zippers weaken and fall apart. A molded base would also stabilize the tool bag on the surface when it is loaded up with tools.
More features: rubber ergonomic handle; 5-year warranty
We chose Veto Pro Pac Tech XL Tool Bag as our Premium Pick for a variety of features. Among this is the largest number of pockets which makes this product the best backpack tool bag for HVAC technicians who want instant access to all their tools for different types of tasks. Though the size of 4.8 x 7 x 9.5 inches may seem small, this is an extra-large bag with 80 pockets and numerous hooks.
The Company has responsive customer support which replaces defective bags free of charge as long as you don’t void the 5-year warranty.
Vertical storage keeps the tools accessible and in clear view, the 3mm thick base supports the bag to prevent it from toppling and a clip holder made from stainless steel
This may not be the best budget HVAC tool bag for technicians who are just starting out and the 7-pound weight feels heavy, but that is a tradeoff that customers are content to make to fit all their tools and leave their hands free. It provides great value for money and there are adjustable shoulder straps and a rubber ergonomic handle to carry it with ease. Veto Pro Pac Tech XL Tool Bag provides the best tool storage solution with plenty of room to spare. Some users report that they got a return on their investment within a short time as they were now equipped for any HVAC task, whether installation, diagnosis or restoration. Some professional technicians like this bag so much that they have invested in a couple of them so that each bag can carry items for specific tasks.
More features: removable tool caddy with a carrying handle
Klein Tools 55485 Tool Bag Backpack is in a similar price range as TECHOT-MC Veto Compact Open Top Tool Bag. It is quite bulky with weight of 13 pounds and dimensions of 19.5 x 13.5 x 11 inches.
The backpack tool bag for HVAC professionals has a sum of 48 internal and external pockets segmented into diverse styles for different tool sizes.
Klein Tools 55485 Tool Bag Backpack has a fully-molded bottom and a 1680d ballistic weave material which is durable and water-resistant to protect the HVAC equipment from moisture on the ground. The handle and the heavy-duty zipper are reinforced with strong aircraft cable to comfortably carry several tools.
A notable feature is the removable tool caddy with a carrying handle and a D-shaped hanging hook made from heavy-duty metal for items that you need within easy reach when working. It has a zipper pocket and open and closed pouches for small items.
The zipper has lockable pulls so you can acquire locks separately to add a protective layer of security.
It provides sufficient support with well-padded shoulder straps that can be adjusted with the buckled strap for the chest and other straps for the lower section.
If you are still in doubt, remember that the maker of this HVAC tool bag has been manufacturing hand tools for at least 160 years! You can count on the workmanship, performance and the reassurance of having the products made in USA for convenient shipping.
Owners like the bright orange interior which speeds up retrieval of items and the front pocket for delicate items such as phones and safety glasses. They dislike the heavy weight although they appreciate its ability to hold heavy tools.
More features: extra wide padded shoulder strap
TECHOT-MC Veto Compact Open Top Tool Bag has an adjustable insert that can be repositioned to customize the internal space according to the number and size of your HVAC tools. It consists of 28 vertical tool pockets so you can easily view and select the equipment of your choice.
The waterproof bag features a 3mm base made from polypropylene while the tape measure clip mounted on the side of the exterior has rust-resistant stainless steel to protect your tools from moisture when you are travelling for gigs.
To easily haul this 6-pound backpack tool bag for HVAC, the adjustable shoulder strap has extra width and padding for support and comfort and the bag has a molded ergonomic grip. It comes with a 5-year limited warranty. Don’t forget to register your purchase with the Company to fully benefit from the warranty.
The manufacturer advises users to clean the zipper coils with soapy water and air hose and to lubricate twice a year to prevent accumulation of clogging debris. Keep the sharp-edged side of tools facing away from the zipper and avoid exceeding the storage capacity.
Buyers have been amazed by the spaciousness of this compact bag which measures 12 x 12 x 20 inches. There is plenty of room for miscellaneous tools as well as a deep central storage which fits larger equipment like meters, long screwdrivers, a duct hammer and a regular pair of channel-lock pliers while still allowing you to quickly grab them on demand.
This is the best rated tool bag for HVAC on Amazon. Buyers like the thick and sturdy material for longevity and the plastic insert which keeps the tools neatly arranged. The main downside is the pricier cost.
More features: rugged waterproof molded bottom
Fluke FlukePack30 has three core storage compartments designated for hand tools, test tools and a tablet or laptop with maximum width of 12 inches, so HVAC technicians do not miss out on important professional correspondences while carrying out installation and repair work. There is a fourth pocket molded for smaller items such as wallet, keys, and safety glasses and a rugged waterproof injection molded plastic bottom that keeps the tools safe and dry and the bag in an upright position for quick access.
Fluke FlukePack30 features external clips, straps, and brackets for the tools you often use. These include coltage detectors, tape rolls, and measuring tapes. Due to some compartments being expendable, it may be harder to calculate the exact size of this HVAC tool bag, although the manufacturer estimates the overall dimensions to be 21.5 x 15 x 12.5 inches.
Unless zippered when fully loaded, the bag becomes top-heavy and spills out some of the tools if you open it up halfway. Consider balancing the weight by putting in more weight in the main storage section and the strap side than on the flap to distribute it so that the front flap does not weigh down and tip over the tools. This should become less of an issue as the flap loses its initial stiffness after regular use.
Owners love the layout that lets them stack several items in the central storage. The total number of storage compartments is 6: 1 at the center, 1 on the front, 2 on the side, a top pouch and 1 at the back for the laptop. A few users suggest enlarging the compartments for laptops and adding Velcro to prevent HVAC tools in the top pouch from falling further into the bottom compartment.
More features: handle extends 19 inches from the base; up to 50 pounds weight capacity
One of the best budget HVAC tool bags is offered by a toolmaker that has been in existence since 1926.
Hilmor HVAC Bag for Tools consists of 13 interior pockets and 14 pockets on the exterior of the tote that are equipped to support weight capacity of up to 50 pounds. The pockets hold your equipment in place with clips and 18 elastic bands. They feature padded layers to provide an extra layer of security for your tools during storage as well as padded shoulder strap and a handle that extends 19 inches from the tote base for a comfortable grip and easy transport. The light weight of 3.3 pounds despite the large capacity helps, too, and the non-slip rubber base anchors the bag to the surface to prevent it from toppling over or sliding away. The base measures 7.5 x 7.5 inches.
Users also appreciate the unique cone shape that holds the equipment in an upright position to increases the storage capacity for tools such as multimeter and 12V drills, and the rugged water-resistant construction materials including reinforced rivets that extend the lifespan of this tool bag for HVAC.
The main reported complaint is the shoulder strap breaking after a few weeks and having to be fixed with ziptie. Some technicians find Hilmor HVAC Bag for Tools more suitable for maintenance than installation tasks because the pockets are smaller than they expected. However, the lightweight bag is ideal for work in attics and crawlspaces. The icing on the cake is the limited lifetime replacement offer by the Company for defective totes.
More features: zippered side panel; padded reinforced web carrying handles
CLC Multi-Compartment Tool Carrier features an adjustable shoulder strap and padded reinforced web carrying handles for portability and a zippered side panel with 30 vertical pockets for quick retrieval of your HVAC tools. We need to point out that the newer 1539 series is the one with zippered storage panels on both sides since some of the marketing pictures mix up the two models and confuse buyers.
The padded strap is comfortable to sling the bag along on ladders and other narrow spaces, and it frees up your hands for more tasks. Be cautious with the strap because a couple of customers note that the metal connection may loosen up.
The zippered side fits pliers, a pair of channel locks, wenches, and drivers for HVAC installation and routine maintenance. The tool bag may fall over if the tools in the side pockets are heavier than the ones secured in the center chamber.
Buyers like the huge amount of open interior space although the absence of individual pockets in this area may make it difficult to sort through several items. They would wish to have pockets in the main internal storage where they can compartmentalize an assortment of their trade tools in an organized manner. They also suggest a lighter color for main storage to easily view and identify the items in central storage.
Otherwise, they consider CLC Multi-Compartment Tool Carrier an affordable lightweight 1.6-pound backpack tool bag for HVAC. It has dimensions of 13 x 13 x 17 inches, and there are 4 pads at the base to keep the bag off the ground and steady in an upright position.
Choosing the best tool bag for HVAC that has sufficient storage and weight capacity for all your essential tools yet is still easy to carry to worksites can feel like a guessing game if you don’t know the most important features that will provide great returns on investment. We have reviewed the factors to take into account in this buying guide. In the FAQ section, we have shared tips on how to clean your bag and keep the interior rust-resistant.
We don’t want to sound dramatic, but the best backpack tool bag for HVAC will ensure you never miss out on job opportunities by keeping all your tools within reach. It equips you to handle regular tasks and secures your equipment in zippered compartments. So, what are the features that count the most?
HVAC tools are stored in a bags, backpacks, and belts with each having its own strengths and drawbacks.
Bags come with carry handles padded shoulder straps, and some have the flexibility to also function as backpacks, making them the most versatile HVAC tool bags as they blend capacity with easy access. You can sling them over your shoulder or carry them by hand. They boast of a large internal storage and a number of external pockets for accessories.
Although most have limited capacity, belts are often used to carry out maintenance tasks on ladders and heights because they free your hands and provide instant access to the tools you need.
The best backpack tool bags for HVAC such as Klein Tools 55485 Tool Bag Backpack typically have the largest capacity and they are easy to carry since the weight is distributed on your back and shoulders.
The number and size of tools you use and your personal preference will determine the final decision.
The number of compartments will influence the capacity of even the best budget HVAC tool bags. The number and type of configuration determines how many tools and which kind you can fit in the bag. It also allows you to organize your tools in terms of size and purpose for quick access. This is achieved by having interior compartments and pockets and pouches and sleeves on the outside for items like phones, tablets, laptops, clips, and drilling bits that could easily get lost. You only have to imagine rummaging through the bag to find an essential component while working at a high height to appreciate the importance of keeping a tool in a specific location within reach.
For instance, CLC 75-Pocket Tool Backpack is available with 75 pockets located in 6 zippered storage compartments, and Fluke FlukePack30 compartments are on the front, at the center, and on the side with a top pouch for small items and a laptop pocket at the back of the bag.
We have already discussed the important role that the number of compartments of a particular HVAC tool bag plays in determining the capacity. To choose a model with the right amount of storage, check how many tools you use in your regular work. Once you have established this, you can match it to the layout design and the number of pockets that will best serve your needs.
While considering your purchase, you should also factor in the weight capacity of the bag, which is different from the weight of the empty bag. Hilmor HVAC Bag for Tools is capable of holding tools with maximum weight of 50 pounds although the bag itself weighs only 3.3 pounds.
This is obviously a key feature to consider when choosing the best backpack tool bag for HVAC so you can fit in as many tools as you need as a HVAC technician although there are compact tool bags that will impress you with their large capacity. A good example is Veto Pro Pac Tech XL Tool Bag which features 80 diverse compartments, the highest number among the bags we reviewed, despite being the smallest bag with dimensions of 4.8 x 7 x 9.5 inches. The height of the bag will give you an idea of the tallest items you can comfortably fit in.
Whether you are choosing the best budget HVAC tool bag for beginners or a premium backpack that can hold an assortment of essential items for installation and repair work, you should not overlook the weight of the bag since you will be toting it to your tasks. It becomes trickier when fixing faulty connections at a height because you need a lot of balance. You may find a belt or backpack more preferable in these situations because the weight is distributed.
Having said that, all the bags we recommended are manageable in weight, with the heaviest Klein Tools 55485 Tool Bag Backpack weighing 13 pounds. It comes with a reinforced handle and heavy-duty zipper for support. The handle and the heavy-duty zipper are reinforced with strong aircraft cable to comfortably carry several tools. We have also included CLC Multi-Compartment Tool Carrier which weighs a negligible 1.6 pounds.
Both bags and backpacks come with straps for the shoulder, chest and back as well as other lower straps for additional support. Look for straps that you can adjust for custom fitting. They should also be wide to prevent them from cutting into your skin when carrying heavy equipment, padded for comfort and made from durable material that would withstand the weight of your tools without breaking. A comfortable bag is easy to carry around for extended working hours.
Some models may feature handles for an alternative carrying method. A model with both handles and straps would be ideal in narrow spaces like attics.
As a travelling HVAC technician, you will need to keep the tools dry and safe from natural elements during transit and in storage. This is less of an issue if you work indoors.
The durability of your HVAC tool bag has everything to do with the type of material used to make the components. The base features molded plastic because it is durable and sturdy to provide structural support to keep the bag upright. It is also waterproof to prevent moisture from seeping into the bag. The base may feature anti-slip rubber pads to anchor the bag while keeping the base off the ground. Some tool bags for HVAC utilize leather or canvas. The most common material for clips is stainless steel for its rustproof quality
Heavy-duty material will add up the weight, so try to strike a balance between the construction material and the resultant weight which you will be carrying to your gigs. Veto Pro Pac Tech-MCT Tool Bag includes heavy-duty nylon on the exterior, reinforced marine grade rivets, and powder-coated steel D-rings that make this model water-resistant and strong to withstand the weight of tall or heavy items.
This refers to the style, shape, design, and configuration of the bag. It is one thing to have several compartments and another to be able to access your tools easily. Are the pockets for clips and drill bits positioned externally to be within reach, or you have to dig for them in the interior storage? Are the compartments for phones and laptops properly segmented to safeguard your valuables from damage from scratches and dents?
Some tool bags for HVAC feature bright colors like orange in the interior compartment for visibility, while others incorporate vertical storage so you can quickly grab the items you need.
Other ways manufacturers optimize layout and capacity through design is by having ergonomic bases and handles for steady support and a comfortable grip, and by using fabric that can stretch the pockets to fit in more items.
You can get the best budget HVAC tool bag at a price ranging from 50 to 200 dollars. To secure your purchase against unforeseen defects, check the warranty and related information on refunds and replacements since it differs from one mode to another. To illustrate this, TECHOT-MC Veto Compact Open Top Tool Bag offers a 5-year limited warranty, and buyers must register their product with the Company after purchase. On the other hand, Hilmor HVAC Bag for Tools provides a lifetime replacement for malfunctioning products as long as the damage does not void the existing warranty terms.
Veto Pro Pac Tech-MCT Tool Bag takes pride in durable steel and heavy-duty nylon construction and multiple storage compartments in form of hanging rings, straps, pockets, and a patented central chamber with lockable zippers.
CLC 75-Pocket Tool Backpack is available with or without clip-on poly bags. It comes with an incredible limited lifetime replacement for defects, 2 carrying handles, padded shoulder strap, and an additional 7 x 5.5 inches tray for storing small items.
Our third pick is by the same manufacturer as our Editor’s Choice, which testifies to the credibility of the brand. The compact-sized Veto Pro Pac Tech XL Tool Bag has a high storage capacity of 80 pockets to fit in all the essential tools required by a HVAC technician for routine tasks. Vertical storage ensures the tools are easily accessible and visible when you need them. Users also note that the outstanding customer support responds quickly to buyer queries and solves any issues expeditiously.
