Computers and Technology

3 Benefits of Using Air-Powered Tools in Your Next DIY Project

Whether you are a contractor, working in construction all day every day, or an at-home DIYer who only occasionally uses power tools, there comes a time when you need air-powered tools.

Standard electric tools are fine for some smaller jobs, like hanging art on the wall. But when you need extra power, it’s going to come from air-powered machines. Bigger jobs, like replacing a roof or building a pergola require reliable, powerful tools.

To use pneumatic tools, all you need to have is an air compressor that is large enough to keep up with the tools you are using.

So why should you invest in pneumatic tools for your DIY projects and home renovations? Keep reading below to find out why these are often better than electric tools.

How Air-Powered Tools Work

Air-powered tools are the loud ones. Most people know about nail guns, which use bursts of compressed air to drive nails into the wood in one motion, saving them time and the hassle of hammering.

But there are other types of pneumatic tools as well. Other tools, like chisels, hammers, grinders, jackhammers, drills, sanders, paint sprayers, and many other types of tools are available in the pneumatic form, rather than strictly electric.

And all of these tools work with the help of air compressors. Wondering how air compressors work?

They force air into a chamber, pressurize it, and then release that air through a small opening. This helps to build the pressure, resulting in high-powered air leaving the compressor, through the hose, and into the power tool.

There are different types of air compressors, each with its own pressurizing systems. You can buy small, portable air compressors, which is what most home DIYers use. Or you can buy larger compressors used on construction sites.

And power tools aren’t the only excuse for buying your own air compressor. They can be used to add air to car tires, bike tires, and sports balls. They’ll come in handy more often than you think.

Benefits of Air-Powered Tools

Once you have a compressor at home, you can use it to power any type of residential power tool you need, whether you rent one or buy one. Here’s why pneumatic, air-powered tools are a good option.

1. More Power

The main reason to use air-powered tools is that they are able to produce more power, relative to their weight and size. Some jobs require the use of high-powered tools.

When you need to use a nailgun, capable of driving nails into solid wood, over and over again, you need an air-powered tool. An electric tool would need to be huge in order to deliver that type of performance for an extended period of time.

When it comes to electric tools, only about half of the power coming into the tool is used to generate force. Compare that with a pneumatic tool where 100% of the power coming into the tool is converted into kinetic energy to make the tool work.

Pneumatic tools are also less bulky. Electric tools require their own motor inside the tool, which makes them heavier and larger.

But pneumatic tools don’t need all the additional weight, since the power comes from the compressor, not the motor inside the tool.

Lighter tools make all-day jobs much easier. Your hands and arms won’t experience as much fatigue. And you’ll make fewer mistakes as a result.

If the professionals rely on pneumatic tools, thanks to their comfort and ease of use, don’t you think you should as well?

2. Use Them Anywhere

Electric tools need a power source in order to use them. Sure, you could bring a generator to a location that doesn’t have electricity. But it would need to be a large generator with enough fuel for the job.

An easier option would be to carry a few small compressed air tanks. Just plug your tool into these tanks similar to how you use a paintball gun. So even in the most remote locations, you can still use high-powered tools.

And since pneumatic tools don’t rely on electricity whatsoever, you can use them in locations where electric tools would be considered unsafe.

Wet work areas could be a major hazard for electric power tools and extension cords. But with a pneumatic tool, you aren’t relying on electricity. The tool can get wet without much concern.

You can even use them in locations where flammable materials might make electricity unsafe.

Plus, pneumatic tools are more resistant to the elements, such as rain, dust, dirt, heat, or cold. Such elements could cause damage to electric tools over time by wearing out the circuits and motor.

3. Pneumatic Tools Are Cheaper

Pneumatic tools are much cheaper than their electric equivalents. That’s due to the fact that they don’t have expensive motors inside with tons of moving parts.

It’s the motor inside a tool that determines its capabilities, its quality, and ultimately, its price tag. Yes, electric tools can be convenient in many instances. But to get an electric tool that is reliable for long periods of time, capable of delivering consistent power without overheating the motor, you’re going to have to pay a premium.

But this premium isn’t worth it for most casual homeowners, who only need a tool once in a while.

Pneumatic tools offer a much more simple design. Fewer moving parts make for more affordable tools. It also makes them easier to maintain, and easier to repair if something goes wrong.

For the most part, pneumatic tools only need a decent cleaning and some oil once in a while. And that’s something most DIYers can deal with.

Add Some Pneumatic Tools to Your Shed

Air-powered tools are used extensively on construction sites, both large and small. They pack a powerful punch, in a relatively lightweight package. Plus, they are much more affordable than their electric counterparts, which rely on the use of motors to deliver internal power.

Those looking to power through DIY projects the easy way should invest in a handful of pneumatic tools to make the job easier. As long as you have an air compressor, you have everything you need.

Looking for more home renovation tips like this? Head over to our blog now to keep reading.

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