Proper Care of Your Tools
The world we live in today is ever changing and changing fast. Tools of all types are the backbone of this fast paced change, be it in our homes or at a construction site. Unfortunately, the proper care and maintenance of those tools is not a high priority for most of us. If you want your tools to perform the best and last the longest, most of the time all it take is a little extra attention and care that can keep them running smooth and for years to come.
If you’re like many of us, that instruction and care manual is usually ignored or thrown away altogether. The manufactures don’t just write those things for filler in the box… they are written to give you instructions on the proper care, maintenance and correct usage of the tool. Taking that little extra time to read through the owner’s manual will give you detailed instructions on how the manufacture has designed the tool and what they recommend for the upkeep of the tool.
Many Power Tools are relatively maintenance free or require very little maintenance. Tools like drills, power driven screw-drivers or rotary-tools really only need occasional cleaning and to be kept dry. It’s amazing at how fast dust and debris can build up and hinder the electric flow, thus hindering the performance of the tool again. If you have an air compressor, it can be a fast and easy way to keep your tools clean. Just an occasional blast of air will tackle any dirt or dust build up.
Larger tools like table-saws, band-saws, miters and sanders will need more attention to maintain peak performance. All of these types of tools involve more of a cutting action and conduct more vibration. Cutting surfaces will wear and need to be inspected to see if replacement is needed. Keeping the tools clean of dust and saw dust, just like the smaller tools, will ensure longer wear for you.
Air-tools are usually going to be piston driven and need to be maintained with lubricants. Most designs make this a very simple process, but again, consult the user manual for recommended lubricant types or density and the frequency of adding lubricants. Depending on the type of air tool, you might need to be adding lubricant on a daily basis depending on how much you use the tool.
Over all, if you follow the manufactures recommend maintenance and read through the owner’s manual before jumping into using your new tool, you should be able to keep and use your power tools for years. Taking a little time and a little care of your tools will go a long way in ensuring that the tools is going to be there and in working condition when you need it.