How to Correctly Store Power Tools

Tool storage is more important than you think, whether you own or hire a tool. Keeping power tools in an organised place will maintain their quality and performance, prevent damage, and reduce the risk of theft. In this blog, Speedy Hire will show you how to store your power tools correctly and safely. 

How to Maintain Power Tools 

Before putting your tools into the storage, you need to clean and maintain them first. This will prevent any long-term damage from dirt, dust, and leftover debris. Your tools will be clean and fresh from the storage for your next use. 

• Clean and service your power tools before putting them into storage. 
• Inspect your tools for any damage and cracks on cables, blades, drill bits, casing, and others. 
• Avoid applying water to any electrical equipment.  
• Fully dry your power tools and equipment before putting them in storage. 
• Apply oil to moving parts to prevent rust on tools that you don’t need often. 
• Batteries need to be removed from tools and recharged to a safe storage level (30-50%). 
• Follow suppliers’ instructions on using, maintaining, and storing your power tools. Each tool might require different ways of preservation and storage. 

When hiring from Speedy, we take care of all maintenance and storage tasks, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. 

Best Place to Store Power Tools

There are different ways to store your power tools and equipment. The goal is to keep them in a moisture-free, cool place to prevent dust, wetness, and external factors that could affect their performance. At the same time, organising tools will not only protect your safety, but also save you a huge amount of time when you need them again. 

Use Manufacturer Cases

Some power tools come with their own protective cases. These sturdy cases are made for the power tools themselves and their accessories. They often come with a foam layer inside to protect tools from impacts. This layer will cushion the tool and keep everything in place.

If you choose to use the manufacturer’s cases to store your power tools, place them in a dry and cool spot and away from children’s reach. For example, on a high shelf in the garage or a locked storage room.  

Use Tool Storage Box 

If your power tools and accessories don’t come with a storage case or you simply want more security, a dedicated site storage box is the most common and convenient way to place your tools.  

A storage box is big enough to hold all the equipment you have and their accessories for convenience. The locking system prevents thieves and limits access to children, so you can place them safely around the home or construction site.

When buying a tool storage box, check the materials, weight, size, and capacity of the box. Models like Armorgard van boxes are available from 28kg to 119kg with steel construction and 5-lever deadlocks for extra security.

Use Pegboards 

Pegboards are a simple way to hang and organise power tools. You can install them in a garage, workshop, or any dedicated storage area. Pegboards are common in households since they can save a lot of space and keep your frequently used tools visible. If you’re planning to fit a pegboard, make sure to use strong metal hooks and hang heavy tools low on the board. 

Pegboards offer easy tool access. However, this also means that others, including thieves and children, can reach them more easily. In addition, they can’t prevent long-term damage because the tools are exposed to the open air. In dusty working conditions like construction sites, we recommend using a storage box instead. 

Store Power Tools in Truck 

Pegboards are not recommended if you want to store the power tools in your van. The vibration from driving might cause the tools to fall off and create damage. You will need a strong, sturdy, secure box for your power tools. 

Van boxes are designated tool vaults, ideal for storing tools and equipment in this case. Based on the power equipment you have in hand, choose either a medium or heavy-duty steel van box for your needs. 

Buy Van Storage for Power Tools 

Vans and trucks are also more targeted by thieves, which means higher security is needed. Thieves often use crowbars or similar tools to pry open toolboxes, which is known as “jemmying.” This method targets weak points around the lid or edges, forcing them open to steal valuable tools. To protect your equipment, choose a tool vault with advanced anti-jemmy features. Internal and external anti-jemmy systems will add extra layers of protection to your toolkits. 

Not only suitable for vans and trucks, but van boxes can also be used in construction sites or at home for safety and security. Shop portable tool storage boxes with stable wheels for more flexibility. 

Store Power Tools in a Shed 

Storing your power tools in a shed is a great idea if damp and moist conditions are under control. You should never leave your equipment on the ground, even in a shed. Instead, you can install shelves, pegboards, and cabinets for large items. After that, you can use hooks, racks, magnetic strips, stackable bins, and tool storage organisers for smaller tools and accessories.

Remember to keep your shed dry and ventilated at all times. You can use a dehumidifier to control the condensation level in moist conditions. If that sounds like too much work, simply install a storage box inside your shed to keep everything in one place.

Tips to Store Power Tools 

With the right setup, you can keep your tools protected all year round and avoid expensive replacements or repairs. Here are some more tips to keep them in the best conditions.

Silica Gel Sachets   

Silica gel packs are great for keeping toolkits dry and away from dampness. Simply put some gel pouches in the case or storage box to help absorb excess moisture.  

Dangerous Power Tools 

Pay extra attention to high-risk power tools that can cause injury, such as power tool blades and drill bits, and keep them separated from others. Put a clear mark, sign, or note on the storage organiser that the area is for sharp and hazardous items. 

Cover Blades 

Any sharp items should be covered before putting them away. Some blades also come with sleeves that you can utilise. Thick protective gloves are recommended when dealing with sharp power tool items. 

Store Batteries Correctly 

With cordless tools, batteries need to be removed and kept dry and cool. Never place them near heat sources, like direct sunlight, to prevent fire risks. 

Keep Tools Out of Children's Reach 

Power tools are dangerous and should be kept away from children and pets. Use a storage box with a locking system, a locked shed, or arrange them on a high shelf for safety. 

Final Thoughts 

Storing power tools correctly is important for both DIYers and professionals. Whether you keep your tools at home, in a shed, or in a work van, the most important thing is to maintain a dry, dust-free, and cool condition for them.

Choose from the range of organisers, cases, or boxes according to the size and capacity of equipment to protect them from damage and theft. Contact Speedy today and pick the right one for you!