Care and maintenance of power tools
Power tools aren’t cheap, and there’s nothing worse than spending a fortune on a new drill only to have it break down a year later. Unless you’re an avid woodworker, the average person will use their power tools sparingly, probably only a few times a year or even less. To make sure you don’t waste your investment or risk your safety, you should take some regular maintenance precautions to keep your tools in top condition.
Another important reason to perform regular maintenance routines is to keep yourself safe. A rusted blade or broken gear can seriously injure you or a loved one. Never start a power tool if you think it has been damaged.
To help prevent problems from occurring, it’s important to keep your tools in a clean, dry area, away from dust and moisture. Dirt can get caught in the mechanisms, either slowing them down or bringing them to a complete stop. Too much moisture can cause rust, which can easily destroy power tools. This is especially true if they are battery powered. Batteries should be checked frequently for leaks and replaced according to factory specifications. Electrical cords and plugs should also be checked for damage before use.
Keeping your power tools oiled is also an important part of regular maintenance. This helps maintain a clean movement and can also prevent rust. Lubrication keeps your equipment running smoothly and should be done often. It is inexpensive to purchase and can add years of useful life to your power tools.
Larger tools will require more thorough maintenance. Filters should be checked and changed frequently, as well as oiled, dusted, and tested between uses. Bolts, hoses, and other small parts must be kept tight. Tools like table saws will need alignment and balancing from time to time to ensure they work properly. The blades will also need to be replaced periodically. If you are not sure how to perform the necessary maintenance, consult a professional. Never attempt to clean or repair a machine without experience and knowledge. Not only could you damage the tool, but you could also seriously injure yourself in the process.
If an object gets caught in the power tool or the mechanisms fail, make sure the machine is completely turned off before disassembling it. Always follow all instructions given for disassembling any part of the equipment and then reassembling it. Do not add or modify any part without consulting the manufacturer.
The most important part of power tool maintenance is safety. Save all instruction booklets that came with your power tools. These will be invaluable when problems arise or if you rarely use the tool. If you are not sure how to fix a problem, call the manufacturer or have it looked at by a professional. Make sure your tools are in good condition, too, before you lend them to a friend. You don’t want to be responsible for the ramifications of using a faulty tool. Performing a little maintenance will keep your power tools running smoothly for years to come.