How to Use an Electric Drill

One of the best tools for any do-it-yourself person is an electric drill. It can be used for anything from hanging a picture to making a bookcase. From installing light switches to installing paneling, an electric drill is a simple "must have" for any home. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drill bits
• Safety goggles
• Clamps

1. Determine which electric drill is best for you, the cord or cordless. The electric drill that has a cord attached needs to have an outlet which might limit you according to what job you are doing. The cordless drill is limitless and can be used anywhere without needing an outlet. Corded drills can be more powerful, where cordless drills are limited to power and can sometimes be a bit bulky.

2. Consider most of the jobs you may use an electric drill for. If you have a lot of heavy-duty projects ahead, you might want to purchase a more powerful drill. They run slower but have the power behind them to get the job done efficiently. The more powerful drills usually have a cord attached to them. If you have a lot of lightweight jobs to use a drill for, then a cordless one may be your best selection.

3. Arrange the work to be drilled either straight ahead of you or down below you. These are the two safest ways to use a drill. The drill is also more secure and won't waver while using it. If the material you are drilling is a hard or thick material, use a hole punch to start the hole before you drill.

4. Push the drill slightly as you are drilling to give a bit of added force. Start out slowly, and as the hole progresses, increase the speed slightly.

Tips & Warnings

• Secure your work before drilling by using clamps. The more powerful the drill, the slower it drills. The less powerful the drill, the faster it drills.
• If you are using a cordless drill, charge the power pack before starting a job. Keep the air vents on the drill clean, and clear of any debris so the drill does not overheat.

[craige]

on 4/6/2008 This article tells nothing about how to actually use the drill. Consider renaming the article or add more info. thanks.