Power tools are an essential part of any tradesperson’s arsenal. They allow us to get the job done quickly, efficiently, accurately and to our usual high standards. There are many different kinds, of course, such as drills, screwdrivers, saws and nail guns – to name just a few. All of them have a different function and they can be powered in different ways.

Some heavy-duty tools, such as chainsaws, run off petrol or diesel engines while many others use electric power. When it comes to the latter, you have a choice between those that plug into the mains and those that are battery operated. But what are the pros and cons of using cordless tools?

The pros

• Flexible and mobile: One of the major advantages of cordless tools is their convenience. As long as they are adequately charged they can be used anywhere on the jobsite, so you won’t have to worry about only being able to work near a power socket. The lack of a cord also means they can be used more easily in awkward spaces.
• Reduce trip hazards: With health and safety such a major consideration in construction, it’s important to protect the wellbeing of all site staff as much as possible. Cordless tools can play a huge part in that, as their lack of cables means there are far fewer trip hazards for workers to worry about.
• New tech means greater efficiency: Technological advances also mean that cordless tools are now more efficient than ever before, with some industrial equipment suppliers offering fuel systems that produce zero emissions. This contributes to a greener climate, while there are also batteries being developed that hold their power for longer and require fewer charges.

The cons

• Less powerful: However, many cordless devices cannot match their corded counterparts when it comes to power output. Cordless tools are perhaps most suited to tasks where only a small or medium amount of energy is required, so for heavy-duty jobs you may find you still need a corded version.
• More expensive: Cordless tools also tend to be more costly than those that plug into the mains, which means you’ll be spending more to kit yourself out. Unfortunately, power tools are a popular target for thieves and recent figures reveal the number of cases to be on the rise, so be sure to keep your gear locked away as securely as possible when you finish for the day.
• Heavier: Due to their battery packs, cordless power tools can also be fairly weighty, which can make operation difficult in certain circumstances, such as when you’re using them for extended periods or working above head height.

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