What your customers need to know
about power hand tools

Even though hardware stores and discount chains sell scores of inexpensive power tools, there is still a strong and steady rental demand for high-quality power tools.
Some of the tools in demand, by both homeowners and professionals, are heavy-duty drills for concrete, masonry, stone and metals; rotary hammers and chipping hammers, hand-held cut-off saws and reciprocating saws, belt and disk sanders and polishers. Often needed carpet tools include steam irons, stretchers and staplers. Electric-powered drain cleaning equipment always seems to be in demand, particularly in neighborhoods with older homes. The 100-foot models can work through most service pipe to reach the main line.
Among the lawn care tools in demand are power clippers, hedge trimmers, weed trimmers and edgers - even if many homeowners purchase this equipment, there's still a sizable rental market.
Compact power augers for digging holes to install fence and signposts are rented by both contractors and homeowners. One-person models are available, along with others that require two people to operate.
Contractors often rent pneumatic or hydraulic hand tools such as power wrenches, screwdrivers and nailers. While compressor or hydraulic power sources may already be on the job site, often there is opportunity to rent portable power sources for these tools, also.

Who rents power hand tools?
Many of the same power hand tools are rented by contractors and others in professional trades and by homeowners.
There is a very basic reason the rental market for high-quality hand tools is so strong: good tools are expensive. Professionals reduce their investment in equipment by renting specialty tools and items they need for special jobs, incorporating rental fees in their customers' bills. Carpenters, tile installers, masons, landscapers, home builders, remodelers, plumbers, electricians, building and plant maintenance personnel, landscapers and other contractors all find renting the economical way to put the best tool for the job at their disposal.
Homeowners know it makes sense to rent expensive tools that they need only occasionally. And many homeowners are disappointed to discover that the low-priced tools they have bought don't perform to their expectations. A trip to a rental center is the answer. So look at every homeowner who comes in for the first time as a customer who will come back again and again - if you meet that customer's needs this time.

Operation
Operation of most power tools is relatively simple and straightforward. Not much time is needed to provide step-by-step instructions. But don't assume everyone knows how to use the product - offer concise, easy-to-understand instructions. Renters must understand how to start, operate and stop equipment before leaving the store. And be sure to send an operator's manual along with each rental.
When you rent a saw or a drill, ask the customer what materials the tool will be used on. Provide correct blades and bits, and show the customer how to replace them. Some jobs may require blades and bits of several types.
Suggest that customers take everything that may be needed in order to avoid an extra trip later. Unused items can be returned for credit.

Safety
Power tools can be extremely dangerous. Operating instructions always must include warnings about risks and cover safety procedures as recommended by the manufacturer. Each tool has its own features; go over the specific safety cautions that apply to its operation.
Saw blades spinning at high speeds can hurl objects with great force, causing serious injury and property damage. Pieces of broken blades and drill bits also can strike people and objects.
Other safety notes:

• No tool should be operated without its safety guards and shields.
• During operation, users should wear protective clothing and devices recommended by tool manufacturers. Depending on the tool, these can include, but are not limited to, eye and ear protection, gloves and protective footwear.
• Loose clothing never should be worn while operating power equipment.
• Use only the correct saw blade and drill bit for the material being cut or drilled.
• Use tools only for the jobs they are designed for.
• Extension cords must be adequate for the tool being used.
• Do not operate electric tools in wet areas or while standing in water.
• Keep extension cords away from wet surfaces and out of water.
• Never allow children to operate power tools and equipment.
• Keep bystanders and pets away while equipment is being used.
• Never leave equipment running while unattended.
• Unplug electrical tools when not in use.

Maintenance on the job
Routine maintenance by customers should not be necessary on rented power tools, but they may have to replace saw blades, drill bits and sandpaper, or change blades or bits for various materials and surfaces. Filters on saws and sanders may need to be cleaned.

Add-on rental and sales opportunities
Always ask what customers are going to do with rented tools. By knowing the details of the job, counter personnel can recommend the correct tool and also suggest other tools that will be helpful on the project.
Tool rentals offer an excellent opportunity to sell related items such as safety glasses, devices for ear protection, inexpensive disposable dust masks, work gloves and knee pads. It is foolish not to wear eye protection when operating power saws, drills and many other tools and equipment, and homeowner customers rarely own safety glasses. High-quality, reasonably priced safety glasses displayed on the counter can be popular sale items.