Tips for salvaging water-damaged tools

Power tools and equipment

• Allow machine to dry out fully, then apply light machine oil to bare metal surfaces. Partially disassemble if necessary to dry interior areas that may trap water.
• Find an electrician who can check out the electrical components and/or have it repaired by a professional.
• See “e-Salvage”  for information on electronics.

• Use WD-40 to speed the drying—the gummy residue will collect dust and cause you problems later on
• Put lubricant on non-metallic parts

Handtools

• Rinse, blot, and air dry; metal parts should then be oiled with light machine oil.

 Fire-damaged tools may sometimes be salvaged by a qualified metalsmith.