Aspiring contractors often ask about the best HVAC books of the decade. At hvac webmasters, we like to equip everyone in the hvac field with critical knowledge for success. Although we mainly handle SEO, we are interested in the success of all our clients, regardless of their experience.
The hvac industry remains strong because, like it or not, technology will fail or need repair from time to time. And being a good HVAC technician depends on both your knowledge base and the experience you gain.
You are reading: Hvac books for beginners
after all, how can you get that experience if you don’t already have the knowledge to do the job right? That’s where having the right texts in your corner can benefit your progress toward a fully certified HVAC technician.
Or maybe you’re the do-it-yourself type and want to gain the knowledge to implement your HVAC repairs. having the correct books will go a long way in allowing you to do those repairs independently without the high costs that hiring an HVAC technician can incur.
Whatever your reasoning, there are a few books you should have in your collection to increase your knowledge as an HVAC technician on the rise or as a do-it-yourself HVAC technician. When you have the right books on your side, you can build your knowledge base to a formidable level.
It is important to remember that not all books have the same value. some books were once industry standards but have since become obsolete. Of course, some of these include the necessary updates to adapt to technological developments. still, you’ll want to make sure you do your homework before choosing a book. the last thing you want is an archaic tome that fails to build your knowledge base.
Without further ado, here are ten of the best hvac books you can buy. they will certainly help you become a better HVAC technician or help you become one.
1) electricity for refrigeration
Because the hvac industry is so comprehensive, it’s impossible to focus on all aspects of a single book. If you want to know everything there is to know about the wiring involved in an HVAC unit, this is the book to consider.
The best part is that it’s been revised and updated over the years, so you can be sure you’re getting modern solutions and techniques instead of the outdated ones you’d find in an older text.
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This book does a good job of explaining how electricity works in heating and air conditioning units and provides simple, easy-to-understand explanations on how to implement repairs.
2) refrigeration and air conditioning technology
Refrigeration and air conditioning technology is one of the staples of many hvac schools, and there are many students who might need it for their classes. due to academic necessity, it is one of the most expensive books out there, although it is definitely worth the cost.
If you find yourself looking for something akin to the hvac experience of college theory, this is the book for you. The book covers heating and cooling unit repair and installation techniques. it also covers the inner workings, the why and how, and everything else.
3) hvac-r equipment troubleshooting
Jim Johnson initially published Troubleshooting HVAC-R Equipment in 1995, but there have been updates to this book as technologies and techniques have changed with it. the only thing that makes this so valuable is all the information about the older drives. Having the information you need to repair these newer drives is fine, but there are still plenty of those older drives that could leave you stumped without the information you need.
Best of all, this book walks through residential and commercial heating and cooling in a concise manner and shows the steps well organized. You’ll never feel lost when you have this text for reference as you continue to learn about the HVAC process and how best to implement repairs. Simply put, it is a must have for hvac texts for those looking to increase their knowledge base.
4) step by step: pass the epa 608 certification exam
Not everyone can be a certified HVAC technician; It takes a lot of study and the ability to pass the necessary certifications to earn that degree. like any test, it requires a lot of learning and a bit of luck. Fortunately, this book is there to help you get through the process as a part and as a certified technician.
Step by Step is also a great tool for an owner looking to save money on coolant. If you are HVAC certified, you will be able to purchase it yourself instead of going through the traditional method. this book will show you all the information you need to pass types 1, 2 and 3.
5) modern refrigeration and air conditioning
Modern Refrigeration is an excellent book for someone looking to build a career in the hvac industry or for a do-it-yourselfer just looking to broaden their educational base.
Among the many topics covered in this text are the theory and techniques for solving problems in the heating and cooling repair industry. Even if you passed your hvac exam, it’s a great refresher to continue your education and keep you as prepared as possible for any scenario.
6) low pressure boilers
Know perhaps the most direct book on this list. Most of the other texts you have read or will read about are about the HVAC industry in general. but if you have ever had specific doubts about low pressure boilers, this is yours.
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low pressure boilers is a comprehensive guide that will teach you everything you need to know about the ins and outs of low pressure boilers. after a quick refresher and a bit of experience, you’ll become an expert when it comes to low pressure boilers and never again come across a scenario that leaves you stumped. essential if you work with this type of boilers regularly.
7) hvac residential construction academy
residential construction academy is another excellent text on the ins and outs of hvac systems and how they work. the book is a perfect tool for students mainly because it is very educational and uses practical examples to help students with their education.
Although you may need to reference various texts along your educational path, this is one of those books that will make things a lot easier down the road. Amazon reviews aren’t as kind to this text as they are to others on the list, but it’s definitely worth checking out and reading.
8) refrigeration and air conditioning technology laboratory manual
the refrigeration and air conditioning technology laboratory manual began as a text used years and years ago before new updates, thanks to the development of technology and methods of repair and installation. still, the base of the book remains stable, making it one of the best options for students.
The technical laboratory manual was one of the main texts in the early 2000s, but the principles remained the same. its price has been lowered to make it a more affordable option for students or those wishing to learn independently. there are newer and more relevant weatherization books available, but this is one of the best for its value.
9) hvac level 1 practice guide
The Level 1 Apprentice Guide is the perfect book if you want to become certified as an HVAC technician. strikes a balance by targeting beginners and students closer to certification. The book serves as a valuable addition to any collection and provides newcomers with countless skills and invaluable information to become a DIY HVAC technician.
Even if you’re currently certified, it wouldn’t hurt to go back and review some basics. After all, a solid foundation is key to any job, and building your foundation with this guide will only help solidify the knowledge you already have.
10) hvac level 2 practice guide
the level 2 training guide is the next edition of the previous section (level 1 training guide), but it is equally valuable for certified and amateur hvac hobbyists. the second installment builds on the techniques outlined in the first guide and helps contractors take the next step in their development.
It doesn’t get complete or complicated, that comes later and with more study, but it does help grow your already established knowledge base and store that information to add to any experience you might have as well.
Level 2 Apprentice’s Guide may be more of a niche book, but it’s a great addition to any hvac library and can help aspiring or current hvac technicians.