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Why Do I Need New Tools
The reality as to why you need new tools is really simple: Tools wear out. Tools wear out in many different ways. From rust to damage from everyday use like chips, nicks or dings or even just in need of a little grease. Let's explore some of these and ways that we can help our tools last a little longer.
Tools Wear Out
Most tools eventually wear out. That means that there needs to be a resource to allow people to replace those worn out or broken tools. A worn out tool could be chipped or nicked on a cutting edge, a broken or rusted handle and the need for additional grease to get the joints back together. Any type of wear limits the use of a tool and either a replacement or a refurbish is necessary.
Repair Rusted Tools
In most climate or if tools are exposed to water without being dried properly and promptly, they can rust. Rust weakens the material and any tool that is showing significant signs of rust should not be used.
Deteriorating metal can not only make for some poor performing tools, it will also be more likely to hurt an unsuspecting user of the tool. If the rust is minimal, use a rust remover to get the rust spots off and a rust inhibitor to prevent more rust from forming.
If the rust has corroded too much of the material, it may be time to send it to the scrap yard.
Sometimes rust repair is as simple as replacing a spring and bolt but often if the hand has the spot of rust, consider it scrap.
Repair or Replace Broken Tools
Replacement parts are readily available for most tools but the real questions is, "Is it worth fixing?" Evaluate the condition of your tools. For tools with cutting edges like snips, if they get a nick in the edge, they are most likely not repairable. Visit our recommended tools page for a replacement.
Other tools like drills can usually be repaired with replacement parts but can be moderately expensive. Get a quote from the dealer repair team in your area. It may be worth it to buy a new drill.
One type of repair that can help keep tools working best is by using sharp tools. If you use a saw regularly, the best performance would be with a sharp blade. Keep you blades sharp to help the more expensive tools last longer.
Also, consider replacing springs and bolts that could get worn out to keep tools functioning in crisp condition.
Proper Tool Maintenance
This may seem like an exaggerated section but it is very important to keep tools maintained. Unmaintained tools slow productivity and can even hurt the user. Sharpen knives regularly (paid link), tighten bolts and grease hinges not just to help the tool but to protect the user.
Collecting Tools
Some people have a lot of the same tools. They collect them, maybe unintentionally and maybe they just like to have multiples of their favorite tools. (No tool chest is complete with out five sizes of the same type of screw driver!)
There are other people that collect certain types of tools, like old fashioned tools or new fashioned tools. Maybe even a brand of all of their tools. However you like your tools is up to you. I say, Keep collecting good things! If you are just starting your collection try this page for essential HVAC tools.
