If you are working outside with power tools, you might be wondering what will happen if it starts to rain. Can you continue with your work, or do you need to stop until the rain subsides? The answer really depends. It will depend on the type of work you are doing, the tool you are using, and whether said tool is corded or cordless.

Working with Power Tools in the Rain

If you intend to continue working in the rain with a power tool, safety should be your number one priority. While light rain might not be a major issue, you should definitely not continue working in a heavy downpour. The water will not only damage your machine, but it will also increase the risk of injury for you. Most manufacturers say that their tools should not be used in wet conditions, whatever the circumstances. Furthermore, you might find that the warranty is voided if you operate the power tool in the rain.

If you need to work outside in the rain, it is best to do so under cover. This means that you might be able to continue using a circular saw fitted with diamond metal blades if you make sure the working area is dry. Some will erect a gazebo and leave the sides open for when they need to cut outside. The folk at Devour Tools say that doing this means you need to make sure that the power supply is also kept completely dry. Should water get into the electrics, it could cause shock, leading to injury or even death. It might also result in fire and damage to property.

What to Do if Your Tools Get Wet

Even if you stop using your power tools when it starts to rain, there may be times when they get wet by accident. For example, you might get hit by a sudden heavy downpour when working outside and don’t have time to gather all your tools before they get wet. Or you are called away for an emergency and your tools are inadvertently left outside.

The damage that may be caused to the power tools will really depend on how much water they are exposed to. For example, tools that get wet as you try to gather them in a heavy downpour are unlikely to suffer major damage. If they get a serious soaking though then they could be damaged beyond repair.

Before you even attempt to use the power tool again, you need to make sure it is completely dry. If you have a cordless tool, you should remove the battery and dry it and the tool with a towel. Both cordless and corded tools can be left to dry in the sun or in a warm part of the house. You might also consider using a hair dryer on a low heat to evaporate any water that has managed to get inside crevices. It is best to wait a few days to ensure it is fully dry before trying to use it again. If you attempt to use the tool while it is still wet, it could cause it to short out. This will make the damage even worse.

Conclusion

It is never a good idea to use a power tool in the rain because of the increased risk of injury as well as damage to the tool and wider property. If you must continue working when it is raining, be sure to do so under cover to keep your tool and the materials dry. If the tools get wet accidentally, make sure they are completely dry before you try using them again.