Can a cordless drill get wet? This is a common question that often arises in the minds of those who frequently use cordless drills for their work. Cordless drills are engineered to withstand tough job site conditions; they’re built robustly and are effective under the most stringent environments.
Despite such rugged build quality, the truth is that cordless drills, like many electrical appliances, do not mix well with water. Contemporary cordless drills may handle a slight degree of moisture due to their built-in weatherproofing aspects that use seals or rings to repel water, dust, and debris. However, as a general rule, it is strongly recommended not to expose your cordless drill to water or use it in the rain.
The Aftermath of a Wet Drill: A Guide to Recovery
So, what should you do if your cordless drill has gotten wet? Luckily, your cordless drill can be saved even if it got wet, given that specific steps are followed quickly:
Step 1: Immediate Battery/Power Source Removal
Once you discover the drill is wet, it is imperative to either remove the battery or disconnect the power source immediately.
Step 2: Wiping Off the External Moisture
Subsequent to battery removal, use a towel to dry off any visible moisture or water. Concentrate on wiping crevices, cracks, and the battery compartment area.
Step 3: Sun Dry or Blow Dry the Drill
It’s time to channel the heat. Place the drill in direct sunlight or blow-dry it. This helps to remove any water that might have seeped inside.
Step 4: Let the Drill Dry for a Few Days
Time is your best ally here. Allowing the tool to dry out completely will take days, but it’s essential to ensure no hidden water damage festers.
Step 5 (Optional): Utilize a Thorough Dry-Out
If the drill was entirely drenched, removing the casing to visually inspect it for lingering traces of water is beneficial.
Can I Waterproof a Cordless Drill?
If you’ve once discarded a cordless drill because it got wet, you may want to explore ways to waterproof a cordless drill. Be aware, however, that it may void your drill’s warranty if it’s still valid. To waterproof your drill, certain products like an Acrylic Aerosol Conformal Coating or Dow Corning 4 Electrical Insulating Compound can act as a protective barrier and can be applied to internal and external components of the tool.
Is There a Waterproof Drill?
While many cordless drill manufacturers like Ryobi and Craftsmen don’t design their products for operation in or around water, certain brands like Nemo Power Tools offer an extensive collection of waterproof cordless power drills safe for use around water and even under it.
What About Other Major Brands Like Milwaukee and Dewalt?
Regulation holds for most brands of drills, including high-end brands like Milwaukee and Dewalt. Regardless of the robust and reliable designs these brands offer, drills should be kept away from water to ensure longevity.
Are Brushless Tools Waterproof?
Whether a tool’s motor is brushed or brushless doesn’t factor into its water resistance. Neither kind of power tool is inherently waterproof.
Conclusion:
The answer is apparent to our question, “Can a cordless drill get wet?” – the safest answer is to avoid it as much as possible. Cordless drills and water do not mix well, and preventing such exposure will enhance the drill’s lifespan significantly.
