There are a wealth of resources available for HVAC professionals – from YouTube videos to blog posts and more! Sometimes it’s important to put down the phone and go back to the basics to further your knowledge by reading a few HVAC books.
HVAC books offer beneficial insights into HVAC engineering, service and repair. Check out our list of the top HVAC books to read this year.
Residential Construction Academy HVAC
Many consider this book one of the best comprehensive guides on HVAC repair for all residential applications. Focusing on residential heating and cooling, this book also includes helpful visuals to guide your understanding of HVAC troubleshooting.
This book covers different HVAC theories and concepts, while providing guidance on real-life problems that may occur. Based on NAHB/HBI teachings, this HVAC book includes tutorials and step-by-step instructions to solve many heating and cooling problems.
In addition, you’ll find chapters on natural gas, geothermal and electric heating systems, hydronic heating, radiant heating and boilers.
Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
This is a standard book for everyone as it suits all levels of HVAC expertise. If you’re a new technician looking to get started in the industry, this is the HVAC book you should have. Even though it was first published in 1968, relevant, credible, and timely information on the latest HVAC trends is offered in the 21st edition (2021).
The latest edition of this HVAC book includes new technical updates, such as pertinent information on microchannel heat exchangers, variable frequency drives, variable refrigerant flow systems, additional code alert features, and an overview of energy efficiency.
It covers essential industry concepts, HVAC theory, troubleshooting help, and tips on how to install and repair units.
This HVAC book also discusses business fundamentals that prepare technicians for the real world. You also receive access to online modules and workbooks that will help enhance your understanding of the principles.
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology
This beloved HVAC book focuses primarily on theory. It describes complex engineering concepts that drive the HVAC industry, while offering real-world advice on how to resolve the most common HVAC problems.
In addition, it comes with in-depth examples, diagrams, and photos to help promote easy understanding.
This HVAC book reveals sustainable technology used in today’s HVAC industry highlighting new technologies and green awareness. Also, it covers the essential soft skills and customer-relation issues that affect customer satisfaction, retention, and employment success.
Available at: Amazon, Cengage, Barnes & Noble
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The Guide to the NATE-ICE Certification Exams
If you’re looking for a good study book for the NATE-ICE exams, look no further! This is a top-rated HVAC book that will cover all the bases needed to study for the exam.
While the requirements to be a licensed HVAC technician vary by state, all states require passing the NATE-ICE before issuing a license.
This HVAC book offers a step-by-step study guide and helpful insights on important concepts covered on the test. In addition, it includes practice tests with 2,400+ questions on topics such as electrical theory, EPA certification, indoor air quality and safety, and much more.
Available at: Amazon
Pumping Away-And Other Really Cool Piping Options for Hydronic Systems
This is a great read by Dan Holohan, who grew up working on older HVAC systems in the North East. He would listen to old timers tell stories of heating systems they worked on in New York City many years ago.
They would share all the tips and tricks they used to fix them and keep them running.
He became a student of these old 19th century systems and decided to write a book to preserve these stories from the “Dead Men,” the term he coined for the heating “authors” who had passed on and left Dan with these stories and information.
This read is great for HVAC professionals still working on hydronic systems, or those just interested in the history of their craft.
Available at: Amazon, Barnes & Noble
HVAC Equations, Data, and Rules of Thumb
This 600-page HVAC book offers an in-depth analysis of code requirements, including standards from NFPA, ICC, NEC and ASHRAE.
This HVAC book also includes sections on design condition, cooling and heating load factors, automatic temperature controls, automation, auxiliary equipment, and much more.
In addition, this book explains the piping systems and temperature limitations of new materials like polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC, CPVC and PEX. This HVAC book also illustrates different types of facilities, including offices, hotels, hospitals, restaurants, commercial spaces, and server rooms.
Available at: Amazon, Barnes & Noble
It’s Go Time
Chris Hunter and Ben Stark, two of the most successful individuals within the industry, wrote this HVAC book. They found success in the HVAC industry, and felt a deep desire to give back to the community by writing a book that outlines their profound success.
This book can help professionals by covering important aspects like:
- Build an effective service department
- Obtain a fresh perspective on work/life
- How to establish a business exit strategy
- Strategies to recruit, hire, and retain employees
One Amazon reviewer notes, “These men have done such a great job driving home some important lessons about being a leader in The Trades.”
Available at: Amazon, Go Time Success Group,
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ACCA Technical Manuals
This series of shorter manuals (each titled with a letter: J,S,T,D, etc.) is not exactly a book. But builders and professionals across the country frequently use these manuals as handy references for building codes. Written by ACCA (Air Conditioning Contractors of America), these books are vital to understanding proper HVAC ventilation.
You’ll find information on design, installation and maintenance for residential and light commercial HVAC systems.
HVAC Troubleshooting Guide
This comprehensive resource is invaluable across residential, commercial, and industrial settings. This essential handbook serves as a treasure trove of real-world knowledge, equipping readers with the tools needed to navigate the intricacies of HVAC systems with confidence.
It offers readers the ability to not only comprehend but also effectively utilize essential documents such as schedules, mechanical plans, and electrical schematics.
By providing clear instructions and insights, the guide empowers readers to troubleshoot HVAC issues efficiently and effectively.
What sets this book apart is its accessibility and user-friendly approach. The book presents complex technical concepts in a manner that seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field can easily understand. Moreover, the inclusion of real-world examples and case studies enhances the book’s relevance and applicability to on-the-job scenarios.
Available at: Amazon
Get Your Read On with these Top HVAC Books!
HVAC books still have a place in the training of tomorrow’s technicians and for reference for more experienced HVAC professionals. Most techs keep a collection of books handy in their trucks or at the office.
Related: Top HVAC Trade Shows to Attend in 2024
