14 Must-Have Appliance Repair Tools (2020)

We want to make sure appliance repair techs can get their jobs done right, safely, and efficiently by showing up with the right tools. This list is informed by years of appliance repair experience, as well as recommendations from industry veterans.

Disclaimer: This list is a great place to start and works for many repair jobs, but be aware that some require specialized tools not shown here.

1) Rechargeable Flashlight: Might seem obvious, but many repair jobs require working in tight spaces with limited natural/environmental light. Never worry about needing to replace batteries while on a job with a rechargeable flashlight, like this one you can find on Amazon.

2) Pocket Thermometer:  Check that your refrigerator and freezer temperature-related repairs are complete with this pocket-size tool.

3) Utility Knife: Designed to be a lightweight, multi-purpose cutting tool, this knife will help with marking cut lines, trimming plastic or wood materials, or to cutting tape, cords, strapping, cardboard, or other packaging material.

4) Screwdriver Set: One of the most used appliance repair tools. Be prepared for any job by purchasing a battery-operated driver with Phillips head 1/4”, 5/16”, 3/8” magnetic nut drivers plus T10, T15, and T20 Torx drivers. Today's battery-operated drivers will last a week without a recharge.

Just in case the battery-operated unit conks out, I recommend having Phillips and flat head screwdrivers both large and small in reserve.

5) Wrench Set: As with your screwdriver and nut driver sets, you'll want to have an SAE and Metric-compatible wrench set. While they are seldom used and never carried into a customer's house, they are kept in reserve.

6) Adjustable Wrench: This wrench features a jaw that is adjustable to accommodate various bolt and nut sizes. It's particularly helpful with hard-to-reach fasteners.

7) Analog Multimeter: A tool that measures electrical voltage, resistance, and current, and is essential for diagnosing electrical problems. As Uncle Harry preaches I have found an analog multimeter far more useful and less misleading than a digital one.

8) Needlenose Pliers and Wire Cutters: Two other tools that you'll want to have are a set of needlenose pliers and wire cutters. The first is great for dealing with small pieces, as well as bending or cutting wires. The second is pretty self-explanatory.

9) Putty Knife: Along with being used for spreading putty, this tool can aid in scraping and prying.

10) Rubber Gloves: Protect your hands from the combination of brute strength required and the endless sharp edges of sheet metal surrounding your hands (not to mention exposed screws).

11) Pipe Thread Sealant: Use this stuff on appliances' threaded pipe fittings to prevent leaks. Sets quickly and firmly bonds to various materials, such as PVC, steel, and copper.

12) Telescoping Magnetic Pick-Up Tool: Spare yourself some headaches and time by purchasing this tool. It can save your life when you drop odd sized screws down into hard to reach spots of the appliance. This is a must-have.

13) 8' Test Cord: A standard household extension cord with the female end cut off and insulated alligator clips soldered on.

14) Turkey Baster and Hand-Held Steamer: Use these tools for refrigerator-specific jobs where the drain plug is freezing and causing a blockage. It'll help you effectively melt the ice and complete a service call in no-time.