Power tools are essential to completing many tasks, at home and at work. While many tools, such as those from Milwaukee power tools, have built in safety devices and accessories, there are specific steps that should be taken when using any power tool to ensure your safety. Here are some important safety rules that should be followed when working with power tools, to be sure that you can complete your projects, without putting yourself in harm’s way.
•Read your owner’s manual thoroughly before using any power tool. Even if you have used something similar before, there may be changes in the operation that could be dangerous if you are not aware.
•Choose the right tool for the job. Improvising when using power tools is not recommended. Attempting to use a tool for a use that it was not intended for can result in serious accidents.
•Before plugging in your tools, check the power cords carefully. Protect the cords during use and in storage, assuring that they do not become frayed, detached or melted, creating a danger of electrocution.
•Always wear the proper safety equipment whenever you are using tools. Most companies, such as Milwaukee power tools, provide information and advice within their owner’s manuals as to what safety gear is recommended when using their products.
•Make sure that blades are sharpened and all attachments are secure before each use. Dull blades and loose bits or blades can result in very serious injuries.
•Always use the proper size outlet for your power tools. Putting a three-prong plug into a two-prong outlet can cause a serious risk of electrocution.
•Keep your workspace tidy and store power tools out of the way, whenever they are not in use. This can help to prevent damage to the tools and also prevent unintentional use, which could result in an accident.
•Be sure that you are wearing the proper attire when using power tools. Jewelry and watches can catch on moving parts, as could loose clothing and dangling fabric. This could result in the destruction of your clothing, if not an injury.
For the safest possible usage of Milwaukee power tools and other similar products, read the owner’s manual for advice. Power tools are meant to make your job easier, but they can only do so if they are used properly and safely. Be sure that you are following the rules and you can prevent unnecessary mishaps.
Three Power Tools Every Home Should Have
Power tools are the key to making home repairs and improvements after and easier than ever before. Technology has made these tools very affordable for the average homeowner, allowing them to take on household tasks that were once left for only experienced repair people and carpenters. As long as you have the right power tools in your home, you will be well equipped to handle many of the most common household repairs.
Cordless Drills - A cordless, rechargeable drill is one tool that no home should be without. Power drills make drilling holes for screws and removing stubborn screws and bolts, quick and easy. If you have ever attempted to start a screw by hand, you know just how difficult this task can be for most people. With the assistance of a cordless drill, tasks that once took minutes, can now be completed in just a few seconds. They are rechargeable and extra batteries can always be kept on hand to keep you from taking unwanted breaks, during a major project.
Electric Screwdriver - An electric screwdriver is a great tool to have in your toolbox for assembling and disassembling furniture, tools and other items around the house. While a cordless drill can be used for many of these tasks, an electric screwdriver is the better choice when working in closer quarters. Additionally, electric screwdrivers can be stored in a convenient place, serving you well when lugging out the full sized drill just seems like too much work.
Electronic Stud Finder - While some might not classify this as a power tool, it is certainly an electronic tool that it a huge help for many tasks. Whether you are hanging pictures or trying to find the right place to cut through a wall, a stud finder can help you to assure that you always hit your mark. Many models even come with a built in laser level that can help you complete jobs to perfection.
Depending on the level of the repairs or type of improvements that you will be handling, you may need to purchase other types of power tools. However, for most basic home tasks, these tools, along with a hammer, pliers and a few manual screwdrivers, should take care of the job. Think about your own needs and make the purchases that make sense for your own level of home repair.
Cordless Drill Buying Guide
One of the most useful and versatile power tools that any do-it-yourselfer should have in their arsenal is a cordless drill. There are many different models on the market, from well-known companies such as Dewalt power tools and others. There are several features that you must choose from to get the right cordless drill for your own specific needs. Having the right cordless drill makes getting the job done right, easy.
One of the first things to consider when choosing a cordless drill is the amount of power provided by the battery. For simple use around the home, hanging pictures or assembling furniture, 12v-14v models should be sufficient. Larger jobs that require drilling through metal, concrete or thick floorboards will needed a higher voltage of 24v. Keep in mind, that as voltage goes up, so does the weight of the drill, in most cases, so bigger isn’t always better. Head to the Dewalt power tools section of your local hardware store to test out a few models and see which will be the easiest for you to use.
Speed is another important feature of cordless drills that determines what materials they can be used on. A variable speed drill is a better choice, as these have the most versatility. Many types also have an adjustable clutch, which can prevent over-drilling screws and stripping the screw, making it nearly impossible to remove. This is a great feature to have if you are not an experienced carpenter or maintenance person.
The chuck type is also important when selecting a cordless drill. Keyless chucks are the best choice because you remove the risk of losing the key, rendering the drill nearly useless. Additionally, changing the bits on a drill with a keyless chuck is much faster and easier than with the keyed models. By testing out a drill in the store, you can decide which of the keyless versions is best for you. Some can be operated with one hand, while others require two.
All of these features, combined with battery life, must be taken into consideration when buying a cordless drill. Most hardware and home improvement stores have staff that is educated in the features and benefits of Dewalt power tools and many other brands. They can show you which models have the features you need for the tasks you will be taking on. They can also show you what accessories you might need to get the job done right, every time.
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Filed under: Hand And Power Tools on January 13th, 2009 | No Comments »
