Proper care of our power tools goes a long way in maintaining service delivery capability as well as helps ensure job safety. It protects us, and it protects the taxpayers’ investment.
When maintaining, inspecting, or adjusting any power tools, make sure the equipment is deenergized, pressure safely bled off, unplugged, sharp edges guarded, and that the tool can’t be turned back on while you are working on it.
OVERHEATED TOOLS
Heat is the main source of tool malfunction. Overheating a tool puts a lot of stress on all components. This condition is a cumulative injury to the tool, like most of the conditions described here. You can get away with it a few times, but eventually it will catch up, likely at the worst time. Keep the bits and blades sharp. A dull bit or blade can reduce tool efficiency by 30%. And when the bit or blade dulls, many of us will try and push on through, worsening the situation and rarely speeding up the operation. Keep extra bits and blades handy. Do not block tool vents with your hands while operating; let the tool breath.
CLEAN REGULARLY
Keep your tools clean inside and out. Wipe dirt and debris from tools but also contamination from smoke. Use compressed air to blow into tool vents. Brushing accumulated dirt from vents could force dirt deeper into the tool. Keep all blades clean; rotary saw blades are notorious for getting “gunky” and reducing performance. For more on rotary blade selection/application and cleaning, see “Selecting and Operating Rotary Saw Blades” (July 2024).
HEAVY USE REQUIRES LUBRICATION
We often have to push our tools hard. Any lubrication is better than none— you won’t overlubricate the tool. This is a must to keep all the moving parts on your power tools working properly. Check the tool maintenance sectionof your owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to correctly lubricate and which lubricant to use. Lubricate pneumatic tools after each use with pneumatic oil. Change the oil in four-stroke engines every 25 hours or annually. This is essential. Signs that you need to change the oil include new vibrations and smoky exhaust. Keeping your tool well-lubed keeps the parts from excessive wear, overheating, and rusting/ corroding.
1 The motor brush assembly of a reciprocating saw is easily replaceable. (Photos by author.)
2 Carbon residue on an electric motor causes an internal voltage drop. This residue is easy to clean off with an abrasive cloth.
MATCH THE BIT/BLADE TO THE MATERIAL
Make sure you are using the properly matched bit/blade for the material you are working. As stated, worn bits and blades will overwork you and the power tool unnecessarily.
TOOL STORAGE
Store tools in a dry, clean place. Storing tools in a moist environment can lead to problems with the electrical components and corrosion. When you purchase a tool, get the case too. This will help prevent dust settling in the tool when not in use and protect it while bouncing around in your compartment.
REPLACE WORN PARTS
As your tool gets used, some parts will eventually need to be replaced. One of the most common replacements is the electric motors’ carbon brushes, which are responsible for conducting electricity through the motor. If your tool has a drive belt, like a rotary power saw, monitor it for wear and replace worn drive belts before they snap. Power cords, recoil starters, and switch assemblies are also parts that tend to become damaged over time.
BATTERY CARE
Lithium-ion batteries are the current standard for power tools. One of themost important factors to keeping your lithium-ion batteries well maintained is to manage heat. Allowing batteries to overheat can damage them. Store your batteries in a climate-controlled area and avoid leaving them in places where the temperature spikes (such as in the back of an enclosed truck). The ideal temperature is between 14°F and 122°F. Do not let the battery run completely down before recharging it. Recharge once the battery is back at room temperature.
USING TOO SMALL/TOO LONG EXTENSION CORD
The National Electric Code has determined that a voltage drop of 3.6 V on a 120-VAC circuit is enough to lower efficiency of the tool and cause it to overheat. Maximum amp draw through 100 feet of 12-gauge cord is 15 amps. Know your tool’s amperage and use the correct size cord. For more detailed information on this, see “Extension Cords: One of the Most Misused Tools on the Fireground” (April 2023).
IGNORE THE FEEL OF THE TOOL
When your tool is new, get a feel for how it pulls through a work piece and how it sounds. It will never work better than when brand new. The tool will give you notice that something is wrong when you listen. New sounds and weak response when operating are warning signs that the tool needs attention.
JURY-RIG REPAIRS
If you are unsure how to maintain your tool, the first place to consult is the owner’s manual—nothing replaces reading this document. If still unsure, take the tool to an authorized repair center. Too much is riding on the performance of our tools to settle for anything less than a fully operational tool.
KEEP TOOLS TUNED AND ADJUSTED
Make sure chainsaw chains are properly tensioned and that they have fresh fuel, spark plugs, and clean air/fuel filters. Know air tools’ rated operating pressures. Keep the air regulator adjuster screw loose when not in use. Check for loose screws and fasteners after use. Check cords, connectors, and hoses for any damage.
SAFETY
Some additional safety considerations include the following:
- Keep all people who are not involved with the work at a safe distance from the work area.
- Keep both hands free to operate the tool.
- Avoid accidental starting. Do not hold your fingers on the switch button while carrying a plugged-in/running tool.
- Be sure to keep good footing and maintain good balance when operating power tools; do not overreach.
- Wear proper apparel for the task. Loose clothing or jewelry can become caught in moving parts.
- Tag “Out of Service” any malfunctioning or even questionable tools/ equipment. Include on the tag the nature of the problem, your name, and the date. Inform your supervisors.
3 Have spare spark plugs and air/fuel filters readily available.
4 Regularly inspect all parts of the tool. Replace parts before they break.
Implementing daily maintenance routines is the best way to prevent problems with your power tools. A simple “wipe down, blow out” can remove dirt and particles that could otherwise end up in your gears or start corroding your electrical system. Keeping your tools clean, protected, cool, and properly lubricated is a sure way to get the most out of them.
STEVE SHUPERT is a lieutenant (ret.) from Miami Valley Fire District, Montgomery County, Ohio. He is rescue team manager and training officer for Ohio Task Force #1 US&R. He is a veteran of 11 federal deployments including WTC and Hurricane Katrina, a member of DHS/FEMA Rescue Sub Group, a certified rescue specialist, a structural collapse specialist instructor, and a heavy equipment rigging specialist instructor. Shupert is director of training for Crash Course Village, a 501C3 nonprofit organization.
