Anyone who uses power tools will know what a gamechanger they can be when compared to traditional handheld tools. From corded to cordless, power tools enable users to carry out a wide range of tasks around the home or on-site, quickly and effectively. But, without proper and regular maintenance – most of which is pretty simple, I hasten to add – they can break down and need repairing or replacing at a far faster pace.

Here are 8 ways to maintain your power tools and prolong their lifespan:

1. Let heated tools cool down

If you use a power tool for too long when trying to cut or drill through a tough material, or just for too long in general, it can quickly overheat, causing stress to the motor and over time, wearing it out completely. To prevent this from happening, stop what you’re doing if your power tool feels hot to the touch, and let it cool down before using it again.

2. Clean them frequently

Once you’ve finished using them for a certain period, power tools should be given a quick clean. Simply wipe off any dirt and dust from the casing with a clean cloth, and if you have compressed air at your disposal, you can use this to clean out the vents of the tool. Failure to do so could result in blockages and ultimately, cause the tool to fail.

3. Lubricate them appropriately

Check the manufacturers maintenance guide for your power tools, and lubricate them as per the instructions given. This helps stop the working parts of power tools from chafing, overheating and corroding.

4. Sharpen bits and blades

When you work with a power tool that has a worn-out blade or drill bit, it means that you have to work the tool even harder to complete the task, causing stress to the motor that over time, can damage its parts and lead to overheating.

5. Recalibrate them

As instruments of precision, it’s important to follow the manufacturers guidelines in terms of recalibrating your power tools to ensure that all of their working parts are properly aligned.

6. Store them appropriately

Your power tools should always be stored in a clean and dry place; should an environment be at all damp or moist, power tools can easily begin to corrode, spelling bad news for their electrical components. Any corrosion in a power tool can make it unsafe to use or even cause it to stop working altogether. You should also store your power tools inside a cabinet or covered area where possible, to prevent dust and debris getting into the tools and damaging them.

7. Replace worn parts

It’s inevitable that over time, some parts of your power tools will need replacing, such as carbon brushes, drive belt, power cord or switch assembly, and doing so as soon as is necessary, will help the tool live longer and be safe to use.

8. Care for the battery

When a standard lithium-ion battery is allowed to overheat, it can become fried beyond repair. By storing your battery in an area in which the climate is controlled and the temperature isn’t likely to rise, and by not allowing it to run completely out of juice before you recharge it, you can prolong the life of your power tool’s battery.