7 Essential Power Tool Maintenance Tips for the Philippine Rainy Season

When the rainy season hits, it's easy to overlook our power tools lalo na kung nakatago ang mga gamit sa storage area. Kahit kasi nasa loob pa ng bahay ang mga ‘to, may pinsalang dala ang ulan at init na pwedeng maging sanhi ng kalawang, water damage, at iba pang electrical issues.

That's why it's so important to know how to properly maintain your tough tools for tough jobs para ready ka sa kahit anong trabaho, umaraw man o umulan.

In this blog, ka-bakal, we'll share practical and easy tips to keep your tools in top shape kahit pa sa maulang panahon. Let's start with the possible consequences of water damage on tools.

5 Effects of Water Damage to Power Tools

Water damage can cause metal parts to rust. Sometimes, it can lead to electrical failures. So, this section tackles the common effects of water damage on tools, highlighting why you should keep them safe during the rainy season.

1. Electrical short circuits

Water seeping into the electrical parts of your power tools can cause a short circuit. Around 37% of homeowners in the US reported that water damage resulted in losses.

Nangyayari ang water damage ‘pag pinasok ng tubig ang connecting wires na nagiging simula ng pagkasira ng power tool. In worst-case scenarios, it can even cause a fire or electrical shock.

2. Rust and corrosion

Water and humidity are the main culprits behind rust and corrosion. When metal parts like drill bits and saw blades get wet, they form a reaction and become more prone to rusting.

Rust weakens the tool, and a weak tool makes it less effective—or worse, dangerous to use. Pwede maging marupok ang parts, at pag tumagal pa, masira ng tuluyan ang power tool mo.

3. Motor damage

Water in a machine motor only spells trouble. The metal parts inside can start to erode, and the electrical components may fail. ‘Pag di naalagaan nang maayos, pwedeng masira ang motor at dapat mo ito ipa-repair o palitan. 

4. Electrical shock hazard

It's common knowledge that electricity should never touch water. Water exposure increases the risk of electrical shock, lalo na kung di selyado ang electrical components ng tools mo. Even with a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet, water could leak into the wiring, putting you at risk of shock.

5. Damage to wiring

Water can also damage the tools' wiring, causing the insulation to wear down or even break. When the wire gets exposed, you're at risk of short circuits or even fires. 'Pag pinatagal ang ganitong problema, pwedeng pagmulan ‘to ng performance issues at iba pang safety hazards gaya ng pagkakuryente o sunog.

7 Tool Maintenance Tips to Prepare Your Gear for the Philippines' Rainy Season

Humidity in the air and rain can cause damage to tools that are not properly maintained. Here are some simple tips to keep your tools in top shape, no matter the weather.

1. Install a dehumidifier in work and storage areas

Moisture ruins power tools, causing rust and corrosion that ultimately merits replacement. Para ‘di kalawangin ang power tools, magandang mag-install ng devices tulad ng dehumidifier dahil sinisiguro ng mga ‘to na tuyo ang hangin sa paligid ng work o storage area na gamit mo para sa tools.

2. Use waterproof electrical tape on exposed wires

Water can easily enter exposed wires and cause electrical problems. Para maiwasan ‘to, gumamit ng waterproof electrical tape at ugaliin ang regular maintenance at inspection.

3. Set up a temporary workstation shelter

If you're working outside, it might be best to set up a temporary shelter gaya ng tarp o canopy para matakpan ang iyong tools. Siguraduhin ding ilagay ang mga ‘to sa isang area na maganda ang daloy ng hangin at walang moisture.

4. Store tools with silica gel packs

Isa pang tool maintenance tip na makakatulong ang paglalagay ng silica gel sa loob ng storage boxes or toolkits dahil nag-a-absorb ito ng moisture. Makakatulong ‘to para maiwasan ang rust at protektahan ang iyong tools.

5. Utilize moisture barriers

Pwede kang gumamit ng waterproof bags o plastic containers para dagdag proteksyon sa iyong tools laban sa ulan at init. Mag-invest sa waterproof cases kung madalas mong gamitin ang tools sa outdoor projects.

6. Install a weatherproof electrical outlet 

Weatherproof outlets are protected from dust and water. Mag-install nito para safe gamitin ang iyong power tools lalo na sa mga lugar na matindi ang init at ulan. 

7. Regularly clean and maintain your tools

Regularly inspect your power tools for rust or moisture. Clean your tools every after use and apply rust prevention oil to preserve the condition of metal parts.

8. Store tools in airtight containers

If you're not using your tools regularly, keep them in airtight plastic containers or tool chests to minimize exposure to the elements. Dapat iwas moisture at exposure ang power tools para iwas din sa water damage.

Keep Your Tools in Top Shape

Power tool care during the rainy season is important to maintain quality and performance. With these tips in hand, you can ensure your toolkit will be dry and well-functioning throughout the rainy Philippine climate.

For all your power tool needs, Powerhouse Tools provides high-quality equipment that can handle any task. We're one of the leading hardware stores in the Philippines, offering various power tools that are durable and reliable for all your needs.