The Essential List of the Different Types of Power Tools

The widespread use of power tools for house and garden projects has definitely made our lives easier, from the novice DIYer to seasoned professionals. A power tool is any type of tool that doesn’t require manual labor for its operation - usually making it easier and faster for the operator to carry out projects.

An electric tool generally saves a great deal of time, labor and money over a hand tool. While a portable power tool is convenient, remember the stationary power tool, like a table saw. Both have their uses for certain projects. Keep reading to find out more about power tool uses as well as power tool names.

Types of versatile power tools and their uses

There are several categories of power tools and what you’ll need depends on the type of home or yard project you have in mind. Two of the most common power tool categories are:

Cordless Drill: One such category of popular power tools that are used often and have a lot of different and versatile uses is the cordless drill.

A power drill or a hammer drill is easy enough for anyone of appropriate age to use and operate efficiently and safely. A handy power tool can often take the place of a hand tool (or several hand tools). For instance, a good, reliable drill can take the place of a set of pliers, different varieties of screwdrivers, and sometimes a hammer. And if the tool is a cordless power tool, it can usually be stored and charged easily, saving space and time.

There are different types of cordless drills, and they are all handy for different projects. A hammer drill is handy for rock or masonry projects, projects that require a bit of extra power or that can be challenging. Depending on what type of drill you prefer, you may also need to buy the drill bit or a range of right bits and accessories.

Saw: Another useful, popular and versatile category of power tools and are incredibly helpful for a range of projects, including carpentry. Saws, much like their manual counterparts, are used for projects requiring different aspects or types of cutting. Types of saws include chainsaws, reciprocating saws, band saws, circular saws, miter saws, jigsaws and table saws.

Using, maintaining and sharpening a saw blade can be one of the most intimidating aspects of using a power tool. Make sure to be familiar with saw blade safety procedures, especially if you are using the saw blade as a portable power tool. A saw blade requires maintenance including cleaning and sharpening.

Nail gun: A brad nailer is a great replacement for a hammer, and a cordless drill or power drill is so much easier and faster to use than a manual screwdriver. If you do not have a nail gun, this may be the first power tool you will want to buy. The nail gun has a variety of uses for both indoor and outdoor DIY projects, and there are many different varieties of this power tool that are very affordable.

Power wrench: There are also a lot of different types of wrenches that are excellent portable power tools. An impact wrench delivers output of high torque and saves a lot of manual labor (and thus time and money). The impact wrench is a great addition to your collection because, like the nail gun, there are a wide range of affordable ones on the market today.

Sander: Versatile power tool, with a wide range available. Sanding is also handy for a lot of craft projects, so even crafters who are not interested in a power tool may want to know how to use a sander. Several furniture refinishing projects, or painting projects, can benefit from the use of a sander.

• A belt sander is another versatile sander. A belt sander can be used in a variety of refinishing and woodworking projects.
• An angle grinder is also useful for any type of project or craft that involves grinding or polishing.
•  Additionally, an orbital sander is a powerful and compact sanding tool. These are easy to use, especially for refinishing and craft projects, so an orbital sander is a good, versatile option.
  

Additionally, there are some specialized tools for streamlining difficult aspects of various projects.

Examples of these types:

• Jointer to join wooden edges of furniture or cabinets
• Jigsaw to cut wood in curves or different shapes
• A miter saw also comes in handy for these types of projects and can present a versatile choice for home or professional projects.
• A rotary tool has a variety of uses, including sharpening, sanding, cutting, and carving. This type of tool can be a portable power tool or a cordless tool, depending on your own preferences and needs and what you have available.
• Pneumatic tools are handy for projects in which you need added power. These tools use compressed air to deliver power that, in manual tools, would require a lot of elbow grease and would be difficult to maintain over prolonged periods of time.

Power tools you must have on hand for your home and yard projects

For the typical nonprofessional or DIYer, there are several types of power tools that you will want to have handy and be familiar with using for household projects. A power drill, air compressor, nail gun, a pressure washer, and a chainsaw are commonly used power tools that will make many of your household and yard projects easier.

Starting and adding to your portable power tool collection is necessary for doing projects both inside and outside the home. This type of electrical tool, such as an air compressor, can be moved around easily for any project sites around the home that are hard to reach. You can also buy inexpensive extension cords for added reach and versatility around your house and yard.

A stationary power tool collection is possible if you have a bit more storage space. Ideal spaces include a dedicated space in a large garage, basement, or outdoor shed. Many saws, such as a band saw, a jigsaw, and a reciprocating saw, can be hard to move from place to place and may best be used as stationary power tools.

Corded power tools are good options to add to a stationary power tool collection. While cordless power tools are more convenient, some cords cannot be avoided, especially if you have a tool with a rechargeable battery. If you must buy tools with cords, be sure to store and use them safely and securely.

Common yard and home projects can benefit from power tool collection, and power tools make projects easier and faster for you.

A power washer has multiple uses, from cleaning your driveway to blasting dirt and debris collected over several months or even years off the side of your home.

A leaf blower, either a cordless power tool or one of the corded power tools, is essential for clearing your yard, especially in autumn months when the leaves are falling.

The right power tools for your project

When choosing the correct power tool be sure to consider your skill level, comfort level with using the tool and safety considerations. Read all the information that comes with the tool. If you are unsure about anything, please consult a knowledgeable professional or ask the staff at your local Tractor Supply for guidance.

Before you start a project, decide what type of work will be needed for most of the project. If you are on a limited budget, you will want to buy the power tool or tools that will give you the most bang for your buck. For example, if you are building a piece of furniture, you will want to use a miter saw, an orbital sander and a nail gun.

If you are refinishing furniture, you will want to buy a power sander and power scraper. Yard work projects may require a chainsaw, power trimmer, hedge trimmer, and leaf blower. If you are not pressed for time, you may want to shop around or wait for sales to make sure you get a great bargain on the tools you need for your project.

Handy tips for proper power tool maintenance

To get the most out of your power tools and ensure they have a long life, clean them after each use—following the manufacturer's instructions for each individual tool. You will also want to make sure they are stored properly after each use. They will need to cool down completely before being stored.

Make sure any power tool you use is not in need of repair. If it does require repair, be sure to make it before using the tool. A qualified professional or contractor can steer you in the right direction if you are unsure where to take your equipment for power tool repair.

Be sure to properly keep all parts of your tools for safe maintenance. For example, blades may need to be sharpened and lubricated periodically. Certain tools may occasionally need to be calibrated, and if your tool is battery powered, batteries will need to be charged or replaced.

Always make sure to replace worn parts, and it will be necessary for you to check for wear and tear before each tool is used. This ensures best and safe operation. If you have tools that have a lot of pieces that tend to wear out quickly, you may wish to keep a backup supply for your own convenience.

Essential safety tips for working and storing power tools

It is essential you are comfortable using your power tools while putting safety first. Make sure to have any required protective gear, such as protective eyewear, ear guards and safety guards. Make sure you keep all the safety manuals for your power tools in a convenient place so you can find them easily.

Be aware of the location of all cords for corded power tools, and extension cords for cordless power tools. Make sure that they are stored safely and are not where they can be tripped over. You will also want to check all cords to ensure that they are not frayed.

Follow all electrical safety guidelines, such as disconnecting a tool before storing it. Avoid using extension cords of more than one hundred feet, especially when working with a saw and a saw blade. When working with more niche types of tools, such as an angle grinder or a jigsaw, be sure you thoroughly understand all operational procedures.

Some tools may require specialized safety gear. For example, to safely run a chainsaw, you need eyewear, ear guards, and a hard hat, and there are special garments you can buy to prevent accidentally sawing through your clothing. Make sure that you remove jewelry and any loose clothing or ties to ensure that you do not become entangled in anything.

For any specialized DIY projects, be sure to do your research first to ensure that you thoroughly understand the operation of the power tool and any unique safety requirements. For example, working with molten metal is a type of niche project. For niche or occasional projects, you may need to get added guidance for the power tools involved if you do not work with them often.

Do your research, learn how to safely use power tools and choose the best tools for your needs. Once you feel comfortable with a standard set of basic home power tools, you can move on to obtaining more specialized tools that may require a higher level of skill. By doing so, you can start to build a collection of power tools that will make all your projects faster, easier, and more enjoyable!