How to store power tools: helpful tips to make tools last longer
Want to work safely and efficiently in the workshop? Then you need to store power tools in a way that keeps them organised and accessible. There are many ways to do this depending on storage space and budget, but here are a few ideas for storing your drills, saws and other power tools.
Why you need to store power tools
When you store power tools properly there will be several benefits that help to prolong their life.
- You’ll keep your power tools protected from dust and moisture and other possible damage
- You’ll keep your power tools safe and out of the hands of young children
- You’ll work more efficiently if your tools are properly organised and close at hand
The easiest way to achieve this is to keep your power tools in their original boxes, but only if they come in tough cases. Otherwise, you’ll need a shelving system or other method of storage.
What to look for in a shelving system
Sturdy shelving is a great way to get tools off the floor, which could be damp if you store tools in a garage or basement. You’ll also need to look for cabinets with drawers and heavy doors so that your power tools don’t get covered in dust, which can stick to any oil and foul the motor. Old-fashioned office filing cabinets made from stainless steel can be a cheap and effective way to store your tools away from damp and dust.
Storing your batteries
If your power tools function with batteries then there are a few things you’ll need to do to store the batteries properly.
- Always remove batteries before you store any power tools
- The recommended temperature for storing batteries is 15 degree celcius, but as long as you keep them from freezing or over heating they’ll be fine
- Store your batteries with some level of charge on them – around 50%
The best way to store power tools
- Drills: there are a couple of inexpensive ways to store your drills. Use PVC pipe to create drill holsters, or build a cordless drill storage station complete with charging area and drawer for drill bits.
- Circular saw: file cabinets are ideal storage for tools that are bulky or an awkward shape. We recommend you to keep this stored in its original case or maybe in a sturdy bag hanging from a hook on one of your shelves.
- Orbital sander: this is a very useful piece of equipment for the workshop and you can build a storage unit from scrap wood to organise your sander and discs.
- Angle grinder: if you need your angle grinder close at hand then you could hang it from a V-shaped hook hanging from your tool shelf. Otherwise, you could store it in a large plastic food storage container on your shelving system.
- Router: if you use your router a lot then you’ll have plenty of bits that you will also need to store. Invest in a proper tool box where you can store the router underneath and the bits in storage compartments above. This will keep everything stored neatly together for maximum efficiency.
These helpful power tool storage tips will extend the life of your tools. Do you want more tips? Check out our Tool Tips blog for other insightful articles. Contact us at Tech-Tool 2000 today or browse our range of products.
