How-to Maintain Your Tools: Cordless Drills

Electric power tools are a staple of both DIYers and professionals alike. Keeping them in good working order is essential to stay productive and avoid the hassles that come with gear failure. In our “Maintaining Your Tools” series of blogs, learn some handy tips for how to stay ahead of the curve and stop problems before they start.

Cordless Drills

Battery-powered hand drills are one of the most common items in today’s toolbox. They simplify jobs and help you save time and effort even with smaller household tasks. With bigger jobs, they are nearly critical and if a drill goes down it can lead to a lot of frustration.

High frequency of use means these tools receive wear and tear in a number of different working environments. A primary contributor to breakdowns are the various kinds of dust, shavings, dirt, small debris and other particles falling into the operating mechanisms. Build-up of these materials can cause varying degrees of degradation, and regular maintenance is recommended to keep them performing at their best.

Mechanism Malfunctions

The spindle of the drill is generally the component most at risk. Keeping the spindle clean – especially with fine dust from drilling concrete, stone, and bricks – will lengthen the life of your drill and ensure it works when you need it. Often, a quick blast of compressed air will do the trick, but you can also use a vacuum and brush to remove the bigger pieces. Add lubricant (such as WD-40_® Multi-Use Product) when necessary by spraying inside the spindle while holding it with the tip upwards.

Protection and Storage

Care for equipment includes before, during, and after use. Two environmental factors cross all three of these stages: heat and water. Storing your cordless drill in places where heat builds to extreme levels or leaving it in prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can reduce battery life and performance. Similarly, water or moisture from rain, snow, or frequently damp conditions (such as in a basement) potentially allows rust or wiring malfunctions to creep in. When using your drill in hot or wet conditions, you’ll also want to keep it of the elements as much as possible and protect it from damage.

If you don’t have a storage case, some DIY options for hanging and stowing your drill can be found on CordlessDrillGuide.com. The same site also offers a guide to the best tool chests for electric power tools and other equipment. As a practice with your drill and other tools, spray a cloth or rag with WD-40 Multi-Use Product and give your tools a wipe before putting them away to add a protective coating against corrosion. We also recommend following manufacture guidelines printed on the packaging.

 

Pro Tip: Including a habit of tidiness in your work leads not only to better functioning and prolonged lifespan of your tools but can instill a habit of mindfulness that can benefit other aspects of your life. If you use WD-40 Multi-Use Product regularly in caring for your equipment, consider the gallon-sized container as an economical alternative to individual cans.