After having invested your hard-earned money on a collection of tools, it doesn’t make sense not to try and protect both the tools, and your investment. However, sometimes people don’t treat their tools with the respect they need, and end up ruining them.

By not doing the following 6 things, you can help preserve your tools and prevent costly repairs:

1. Never changing your brushes

If you own power tools with brushed motors, then you’ll need to replace the brushes from time to time to prevent the motor from overheating. Brushes usually don’t cost much and it only takes a second or two to replace them. When you do replace them, you’ll notice your power tool becomes more powerful, and it will undoubtedly last longer, too.

2. Not using the right gauge extension cord

While not an issue with cordless power tools, if the motor of your corded power tool isn’t getting enough power, this could be due to the incorrect use of an extension cord (i.e. one that has a higher gauge/lower amperage), use of an extension cord that’s too long, an unstable power source on site or from a generator, or any kind of damage to the cord.

3. Not lubing your air tools and greasing your bearings

Oil can help you keep your air tool performing well for longer, as it stops the internal parts made from metal from rusting, and helps the proper functioning of both the seals and gaskets.

4. Throwing your tools in the back of your truck

It might be a minor inconvenience to have to pack your tools away in a kit bag or a box instead of tossing them into the back of your truck, but failure to do it can easily lead to your tools become damaged, dirty, and ultimately, unusable.

5. Not listening to what your tools are telling you

When you’re using tools for extended periods of time, or even when you pick tools up after a long period of inactivity, they will each have ways of letting you know whether they’re performing at their best, or not. Odd sounds and parts that don’t move properly could indicate that your tool needs a rest, or that they need some maintenance. By acting on what your tools are telling you, you can help them last longer and avoid repairs and replacements.

6. Fixing tools yourself

While you may be able to fix a tool once you’ve read through the manufacturers breakdown manual and ordered the right parts, it isn’t always advisable to do so unless you’re experienced at repairing power tools. Not only can an improper repair cause the tool to become even more damaged, but it can make it dangerous to use, too.