A quality electric drill may cost more than you are willing to spend if you only need the drill for a single project. Renting a drill instead of buying one outright can offer an affordable and easy way to access a high-end electric drill.

A few different options are available to you when it comes to renting an electric drill. You can opt to invest in an electric drill that plugs directly into an electrical outlet, or a drill that relies on a rechargeable battery pack as a power source.

Take some basic factors into consideration before you rent an electric drill so that you can decide if a corded or a cordless drill will best meet your needs. Here are three important factors to consider.

1. Weight

When renting an electric drill, consider its weight. If you are worried about the weight of a power tool, choose a corded electric drill. These models tend to be on the lighter side because there is no heavy battery pack attached.

A lightweight drill with a cord is a good option for aging construction enthusiasts or those who have mobility issues with their hands (like arthritis or carpal tunnel).

The weight for cordless drills varies based on power and size. The average 9.6V cordless drill weighs in at about 3.5 pounds, while a more powerful 18V cordless drill can weigh up to 10 pounds. If weight isn't a concern for you, then you can opt for either a corded or cordless drill.

2. Power Access

Small power tools require anywhere from two to eight amps of electrical power to function properly. This means that you will need to have access to a ready supply of electricity if you want your drill to work properly. To determine if you need a corded or cordless model, think about how you will access electricity while working on your project.

A corded drill is very convenient when you are working in an area that is located close to a wall outlet. You can easily plug the drill into a power source and enjoy the lightweight design of a corded drill.

If you will be working in an area without electrical access, then a cordless drill is a better option. The attached battery pack allows you to utilize a cordless drill in any location.

Be sure that you have a backup battery charged and ready to go so that your electric drill will have access to the power it needs to sustain performance throughout the duration of your project.

3. Torque

Another important variable that you will want to consider when renting an electric drill is the amount of torque that you will need to get your job done.

You can typically tackle small jobs with a cordless drill. A cordless model will be able to generate enough torque to drill holes and drive screws into basic construction materials.

If you are planning to work with heavy duty screws or uncommon materials during the completion of your project, then a corded drill is the right choice. The constant and uninterrupted flow of electricity that runs through the cord gives a corded drill greater consistency in terms of torque.

A corded drill will perform more reliably and be able to generate a greater amount of torque than most of the cordless models available on the market.

If you don't use power tools often enough to justify the purchase of a high-end electric drill, but you need to complete a construction project soon, consider the value of renting your drill instead. Contact West Equipment Co. Inc. for help finding the right electric drill for your future project.