What Are Power Tools Used For?

Using power tools for your DIY projects can save you significant time, simplify tasks and help you achieve professional results. Whether you’re a beginner or have ample experience, knowing how to choose the right tools and how to use them safely is important. This guide will help you understand the basics.

Before you get started

Before you begin your project, it is crucial to be familiar with some standard precautions that come with using power tools.

Basic power tool safety

Electrical Safety: Check that your power tools are in good working order. When using power tools with electrical cords remember to inspect cables and plugs and ensure there are no cuts or frays. Always keep electrical tools away from water. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Consider if you need to wear safety goggles, ear protection, gloves and dust masks. This keeps you safe from flying debris, loud noises and inhaling dust.
Read the Manual: Every power tool will come with an instruction manual to tell you how to use the equipment safely. 

What time do you have to stop using power tools?

Be aware of what time you can use power tools, and check local rules to be sure. Usually, it is best to do work with power tools during the day. Between 8am and 8pm on weekdays and 9am and 7pm on weekends are good times in order to minimise disruption to your neighbours.

What size generator do I need to run power tools? 

If you are using power tools in a remote location with no direct connection to the national grid, you will need a generator to supply the energy for your tools. For small tools such as sanders, a 1000-2000 wattage generator will suffice. However, if you are using larger tools, a more powerful generator may be necessary.

How to clean power tools

Regularly cleaning your power tools will keep them in good condition and help them last longer. Make sure you have disconnected your tools before starting to clean. Gently remove dust and debris with a brush or compressed air and wipe down with a damp cloth. Sometimes tools may require lubrication, refer to your manuals for guidance.

How to store power tools

Proper storage also contributes to keeping your tools in good condition. Clean tools before you put them away and use labelled shelves and boxes to organise everything. 

Some popular power tools and their uses:

CARTRIDGE GUNS: Cartridge guns efficiently drive nails into steel and concrete using explosive cartridges. 

ELECTRIC SANDERS: Electric sanders make sanding a smooth task. At Tool Chest Hire, we stock a variety of sanders, you will find the ideal option for your project size and requirements. 

NAIL GUNS: Nail guns drive nails quickly and precisely, eliminating the need for using time consuming options such as manual hammers. 

PLANERS: Planers smooth and level wooden surfaces, ideal for fitting doors or making boards or fine woodworking. 

DRILLS: Drills are used for making holes and driving screws. Options include corded and cordless drills, ideal for different jobs.

SAWS (JIGSAWS, MASONRY SAWS): Jigsaws are designed to be good at cutting curves and shapes in wood, metal and plastic. Whereas masonry saws are perfect for cutting bricks, stone and concrete. 

ROUTERS: Use a router to efficiently cut grooves or hollow out precise areas, these are most often used in woodworking.

WALL CHASERS: Wall chasers will help you to cut precise grooves in order to bury electrical cables. 

GRINDERS: Grinders are used primarily in metal working to cut, grind and polish.

Get in touch for reliable power tool hire

Here at Tool Chest Hire, we are proud to stock a diverse, high quality range of tools for hire. Hiring a tool will save you the cost of buying one and allow you to determine the exact length of time you need it to complete your specific project.  As a family-owned business founded in 1984 and still going strong, you can trust our years of experience and ability to offer reliable advice. We provide trustworthy service in every element of what we do, from helping you select the right tools to the day you return them after a successful project. 

For expert tool hire in the greater London area, get in touch with our helpful Hammersmith team on 020 8748 7912 or use our enquiry form. We look forward to hearing from you.