Your tools are one of your most important assets as a tradie and the last thing you want is for them to breakdown ar be damaged while working on a job. Extend the life of your tools with these 9 easy to follow tips. 

Tidy your space 

Workspaces can get dirty pretty quickly from dirt, dust and other shavings. Giving your benches and toolboxes a good wipe down not only creates a clean environment but it helps prevent your tools from getting dirty too. Being exposed to contaminants over time can damage the effectiveness of your tools, causing deterioration and potential breakdown. 

A regular clean doesn’t have to be a hassle. Having a cordless vacuum can help make your life that much easier by quickly zapping up the mess in an instant.  

Don’t leave electronic issues to chance 

Maintaining the electrical components of tools is not only vital to the longevity of your tools but a massive safety issue. More often than not, it’s the power cords and switches that will fail. The wear and tear over time means moving and semi-moving parts can become frayed, damaged or even cut, which can cause a dangerous working environment.  

It’s essential to get these issues fixed by a licensed electrician or a qualified repair technician. While carrying out some DIY repairs may be tempting, it not a risk worth taking.  

De–greasing  

Using citrus de–greaser is one of the most effective ways to maintain your tools. The active ingredient of Limonene is a solvent which is not only non-toxic but only requires a a small amount to get your tools clean and sparkling in no time. 

Citrus oil is not only great for de-greasing your tools but you can also use it as a cleaning agent to remove the sticky residue left behind from stickers, oil-based paints and even glue.  

When you’re using citrus de-greaser,  a little bit goes a long way., Just apply it to a rag and there’s no need to scrub, leave it to work its magic. 

The power of magnets 

As simple as it may sound, one of the most effective cleaning products you can have as a tradie is magnets. They are especially helpful if you work in an environment full of metal fillings and small screws, making it easier to locate them when they find their way into hard to reach spaces. If the wrong piece gets into your tools, it can become a safety issue but could damage your tools for good. 

Magnets are also a big help when keys and drill bits fall into drain-pipes and can help keep fasteners neat and tidy. 

Clean your tools 

 

It may seem a bit obvious but taking care to clean your tools frequently is one of the best ways to look after your tools. Cleaning your tools often helps to maintain the parts and functionality, especially for the ones you use regularly. 

Different tools require different levels of care and cleaning methods. Most power tools will come with a manufacturers guide, which should explain the best way to maintain them and keep them clean. 

Get organised 

 

Setting up a dedicated space, or even investing a decent toolbox can help with keeping your tools in good condition. Sturdy and high-quality toolboxes help to not only safeguard your tools from the dust and other contaminants but it keeps them secure and safe.  

There are many different storage solutions available, from solid structures to portable options for when you’re working on site.  

Show a little TLC 

 

After a long day, it’s easy enough to throw your tools into a box or bag without giving them a second thought. Unfortunately, this is how a lot of tools end up damaged and broken. and the good news is that with a little care, you can avoid a hefty repair bill. 

A quick wipe down and packing them away in the right space are some of the easy steps you can take to keeping your tools in a good state. 

 

Service and repairs 

 

Whether they’re stationary tools or full of moving parts, regular service will help the life of your tools. Don’t trust your tools with just anyone, check that you have a repuatable technician to carry out your repairs and servicing. 

Insure your tools 

 

When you spend a bucketload on purchasing tools, it is worth considering Tool and Portable Equipment insurance. Tool and Portable Equipment Insurance covers you for loss and damage to items of portable equipment associated with your business. These can include tools of trade and items of stock. 

To find out more about the Business Insurance options are available to protect your tradie business visit Public Liability Insurance.  Jump online a free quote for your business insurance in minutes. 

 

 

*As with any insurance, cover will be subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions contained in the policy wording. The information contained on this web page is general only and should not be relied upon as advice. 

Public Liability Insurance is a business name of BizCover Pty Ltd (ABN 68 127 707 975; AFSL 501769).