A good drill is one of the most valuable tools in your toolbox. Whether you’re doing DIY builds, making home repairs, or hanging shelves, keeping your drill in top shape ensures it performs smoothly and lasts for years. In this Greenworks guide, we’re sharing the easy dos and don’ts of drill maintenance to help you get the most out of your investment!
7 Simple Drill Maintenance Tips
1. Remove the Battery After Each Project
If you’re using a cordless drill, make it a habit to remove the battery once you’re done working. This prevents unnecessary power drain and helps extend the overall battery life. Removing the battery from your drill is also a safety measure (especially if you store your drill in a busy garage or workshop).
2. Avoid Overcharging or Undercharging the Battery
Your drill’s battery is its lifeline. To maximize performance, don’t leave it plugged in for days at a time and avoid letting it run all the way down to zero too often. Following proper charging habits keeps the battery healthy and ensures your drill is always ready when you need it.
3. Keep Your Drill Clean
Dust, dirt, and oil can quickly build up around vents, chucks, and buttons. Use a clean cloth and a can of compressed air to clear debris after each project. This simple step prevents overheating, reduces wear, and keeps your drill running smoothly for many seasons!
4. Store Your Drill Properly
Never toss your drill into a damp basement or leave it sitting in the sun. Moisture can lead to rust on metal parts, while extreme heat can damage batteries. Instead, store your drill in a cool, dry place (preferably in a carrying case or on a tool rack).
5. Check and Tighten the Chuck
The chuck—the part of your drill that holds the drill bit—can loosen over time. Periodically inspect it and make sure it tightens securely around your drill bits. A loose chuck not only reduces efficiency but can also be a safety hazard.
6. Lubricate Moving Parts
For corded drills and older models, a drop of light machine oil on moving parts can keep gears running smoothly. However, always check your drill’s manual first—some modern drills are sealed and don’t require additional lubrication.
7. Inspect Drill Bits and Accessories
A drill is only as good as the bit attached to it. Dull or bent drill bits strain the motor and produce poor results. Keep bits sharp, clean, and organized to protect both your drill and your projects.
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Final Thoughts: Why is it Important to Maintain a Drill?
Maintaining your drill doesn’t take much time, but it does make a big difference in performance and longevity. By following simple drill care tips like removing the battery, avoiding charging mistakes, keeping it clean, and storing it correctly, you’ll ensure your drill is always ready to get projects done with power.
If you’re interested in reading more about drills, check out our latest post on how to Choose the Right Drill for Your DIY Projects.
Plus, read more about tool maintenance on our blog at Greenworks.com!
Written by The Green Team, a creative arm within Greenworks Tools.
Our team of writers, designers and content creators bring a breadth of experience and a touch of fun to all things tools. With an assist from the Greenworks product teams and technology experts, we’re here to provide helpful and engaging content to make your yard (and life!) beautiful.
