Electric power tools help you get jobs done faster and with less effort. They aren't essential - you can do practically all basic household jobs with manual hand tools - but they are invaluable.

Electric drill: This is generally used to make holes but can often be fitted with attachments that perform other functions, such as sanding or tightening screws. Increasingly inexpensive, an electric drill is becoming an indispensable piece of equipment for the home.

Jig-saw: A DIY enthusiast should have a powerful and easy to use jig-saw. But for projects, a handsaw is sufficient. This saw cuts through tough materials, including wood, plastic laminate, and steel. It can be used for cutting precision shapes.

Sander: An electric sander smoothes large, rough areas effortlessly. It is ideal for renovating doors and floorboards.Cut down on the elbow grease and hire an electric sander from your local hardware shop.

Power screwdriver: This is a lightweight alternative to using a drill attachment. A power screwdriver has changeable heads to match different types of screw and takes the hard work out of inserting screws.

Circular saw: This saw cuts thick, straight pieces of wood up to 5cm (2in) deep.

Power tool tips

• It is worth buying cordless tools. They give complete flexibility and solve the problems of trailing cables and locating power sources.
• Hire expensive tools that are used only occasionally.
• Always wear safety goggles and never leave power tools unattended in homes with children.

Source: Home Basics, Readers Digest

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