Hardwood Floors December 2024/January 2025

AT THE SITE Tool Maintenance Schedules (Continued)

Wear and Tear: After cleaning your tools, take a few minutes to see if there are any defects or damaged areas. You’ll look specifically for any cracks or damage to the outside housing, frayed or exposed wires, loose bolts or screws, gouges in sanding drums or pads, corrosion and rust, and any other splinters or breaks. This is also an ideal time to turn the tool on and listen for anything that sounds abnormal. Overheating: Overworking a tool puts a lot of stress on its motor and can cause it to overheat. Overheating can occur when dust has accumulated on some components of the motor, or if you just

run a tool too long without giving it a break. If your tool seems like it is getting hot, stop what you are doing and give it a break until it can cool down. This will help save you from wearing out the motor or burning out parts. Storage: When a tool gets stored after a long day of use, the way it is stored can affect its performance. Allow tools to cool down after use and before storing them. Storing tools before they’ve had a chance to cool down can cause components of the tool to warp if improperly stored. Most tools should be stored in a dry, clean location. Keeping power tools in a humid or wet environment can cause corrosion, often leading to problems with the electrical components. Battery Care: With battery-powered tools becoming so prominent at today’s jobsites, battery maintenance has become a critical part of tool maintenance. Most power tools use lithium-ion batteries, which have become known to overheat. Don’t let the battery run down completely before recharging. Replace batteries that won’t hold a charge and always keep spare batteries on hand. Store batteries in a cool, dry place. Also, remember to never store a tool with the battery installed in it. Cord Care: Keep cords in good condition. Any cuts or nicks in a cord will pose a risk to the user and must be addressed promptly. If you are having issues with the tool not starting or stopping properly, check attachments or cords. Bad or loose connections or exposed wires can cause the tool to short out, or not start/stop properly. Cords should always be coiled up rather than twisted.

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