Since HVAC professionals are always on the go, HVAC van or pickup truck setup is vital to staying on track. An organized vehicle can increase productivity, save time and money, and more. Read on for HVAC service van setup ideas, benefits, and more.
Benefits of an Organized HVAC Van
Tools Used by HVAC Service Technicians
HVAC Van Setup Ideas & Organization Tips
Best Vehicles for HVAC Service
Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC Van Setup
Benefits of an Organized HVAC Van
When an HVAC van is properly organized (and kept so), team members can find tools and equipment quickly. This makes for more efficient work, and technicians and other members of the HVAC team are able to complete more jobs on deadline. A strategic HVAC vehicle layout can decrease safety risk and keep technicians from worrying about tools or equipment shifting around and falling.
The many benefits of a well-organized HVAC van setup include:
- Better time management
- Increased job efficiency
- Tools being more accessible
- Safety
- Inventory tracking
- Faster onboarding for new employees
HVAC Van Equipment Essentials
While each HVAC company has preferred tools and storage, every fleet vehicle has similar needs. These include:
- Shelving and tool boxes: Ideal for storing tools and small equipment.
- Partitions: Separates passengers from the bulkhead.
- Storage bins: Stay organized by storing extra parts or tools in bins.
- Security equipment: Keep tools, equipment, or parts safe with lock boxes or security cameras.
- Pegboard/hanging unit: Easily access tools, such as hung-up wires and tubing.
- Roof storage and wall racks: The more storage options available, the easier it is to stay organized. and have a place for everything.
- Interior workspace: Having a workspace is vital when working on or off-site.
- Power inverter: Keep a power inverter in the van for electrical equipment.
- Interior lighting: Lighting helps minimize the risk of mistakes and injury.
- Dry filter storage: Make sure there is a dedicated dry area for filters.
We understand that HVAC technicians need specific upfits to do the job correctly and efficiently. We can help upfit your vehicle to meet your specific HVAC-business needs, including:
- Branding and decals
- Tank racks
- Hooks to hang manifolds
- Bins for small parts
- Ladder racks
- Partitions
- Drawer units
- Shelving modules
- Anti-slip flooring
- Roof vents
Tools Used by HVAC Service Technicians
When planning an HVAC service van setup, it’s important to keep storage in mind for the following commonly used tools:
- Pliers
- Screwdrivers
- Wrenches
- Hammers
- Drills
- Electric saws
- Flashlights
- Cutters
- Gauges
- Extension cords
- Staple gun
- Core remover
- Coil fin straightener
- Thermometers
- Leak detector
- Specific HVAC equipment
- And more
HVAC Van Setup Ideas & Organization Tips
Plan It Out
Figure out in advance which tools, equipment, storage, and upfits you need. It may be beneficial to physically draw out your plan with dimensions and labels. Remember to leave enough open space for a workstation.
Consider Your Needs
You’ll want to ask the following questions.
- Do you need space for a power inverter, vacuum, or other large pieces of equipment?
- How much storage space will you need?
- What type of storage will best fit your needs?
- Do you need a ladder rack?
- What lighting option works best for your fleet?
Get Technician Input
Technicians are the ones who are in the field on a daily basis; they know what works and what doesn’t. It’s best to consult a technician with substantial experience in the field when considering HVAC vehicle layout design.
Work with a Fleet Management Company (FMC)
An FMC can help you rent, lease, or purchase the right vehicle(s) for your needs, including any upfitting, telematics, and license and title services. Reach out to one of our expert fleet consultants to get started with our affiliate Merchants Fleet, one of the largest fleet leasing companies in the United States.
Best Vehicles for HVAC Service
There are a variety of quality, gently-used cargo vans and trucks for HVAC fleets, but here are the most popular options.
Cargo Vans
The Ford Transit is one of the best-selling van models due to its versatility, dependability, and carrying capacity. Recent models have an array of safety and driver-assistance features to ensure that travel is secure and enjoyable.
The ProMaster 2500 is a popular cargo van with automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. It boasts plenty of cargo room in the back — which makes it perfect for an HVAC service van setup — and comes equipped with features such as Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and vinyl trim bucket seats in the front.
Mercedes is well-known for its vans, and the Sprinter van is popular among camping enthusiasts and professionals in various industries.
Pickup Trucks
While cargo vans are more popular, many opt for an HVAC pickup truck setup.
Ford F-150 is popular for its versatility and wide range of features. Ford has been at the forefront of the electric vehicle movement and continues to manufacture both award-winning vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions About HVAC Van Setup
Q: What is the best type of used cargo van or truck for HVAC technicians?
A: We find that Ford Transits, Ram ProMaster, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans are the best fit for HVAC technicians.
Q: What are the most popular types of upfits for HVAC vehicles?
A: The most popular types of upfits for HVAC vehicles are branding and decals, tank racks, bins for small parts, ladder racks, drawer units, and partitions.
Q: How much does an HVAC van cost?
A: The cost of an HVAC van will depend on the make, model, and mileage. The bulk of our cargo van inventory falls within the $25,000 to $35,000 price range, but there are options below $25,000 and above $35,000.
Q: What should I look for when buying a used HVAC vehicle?
A: Mileage is an important factor, especially since HVAC technicians are often on the road for long periods of time. Also, the amount of space you need will determine whether you’re looking at a cargo van or truck.
Q: How much will upfits cost?
A: The cost of an upfit will vary, but vehicle branding can fall anywhere between $150 for a logo magnet up to $5,000 for a full vehicle wrap. Similarly, upfitting can be as low as $1,000 for a basic rack storage up to $8,000 or more for specific storage and racks.
Why Merchants for Your HVAC Vehicle Layouts
Largest Nationwide Selection
We’re proud to offer the largest nationwide selection of commercial vehicles, including pickup trucks, box trucks, cargo vans, and passenger vans. Our inventory is staged and ready to go — not just in New Hampshire, but in major metro areas like Dallas, Atlanta, Chicago, and Southern California.
Best-In-Market Pricing
We don’t believe in surprises when it comes to price, which is why we’re upfront about it. Our commercial vehicles are priced well below retail, and the price you see is the price you pay.
Nationwide Delivery
We may be located in New Hampshire, but we serve customers all across the country. That’s why we offer nationwide delivery — no deposit required. Receive a quote in less than a minute on our website! It’s that simple.
Money-Back Guarantee
We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase, which is why Merchants Commercial allows you to return your commercial vehicle for a full refund within 7 days or 500 miles, whichever comes first.
Shop In Person or Online
You can shop with us no matter where you’re located in the United States. Visit us in Hooksett, NH, or browse our inventory online at your convenience. Filter your search by price, year, make, model, trim, fuel type, transmission, mileage, and more.
Dedicated Commercial Sales Team
Our commercial sales professionals work hard to ensure you have a positive experience. They are dedicated individuals who will answer your questions, aid you in finding the right vehicle, stay with you during the entire process, and help with any future purchases and needs.
Flexible Lending Options
We offer a variety of commercial financing options, including business lines of credit to cover uplifts.
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