From getting into tight spaces to lighting up those dark afternoons on site in winter, cordless tools have the flexibility to make life easier, says Jonathan Peters, HiKOKI Power Tools.
Cordless power tools have become indispensable in modern plumbing, thanks to their ability to perform well in confined spaces and where access to power is limited or non-existent. As winter kicks in, the versatility of cordless tools becomes even more important. You don’t want to be dragging cords through rain or mud or spending time tracking down extension cords and there’s no need to worry about winter weather causing power outages; battery power can solve all of these issues and, with super-fast chargers, never run out of power
One such versatile tool is the CV18DA Multitool, which is designed to handle a variety of tasks, from cutting and grinding to sanding and scraping. This multitool is especially valuable for plumbers, allowing quick transitions between different tasks without switching tools, thanks to its tool-less blade change feature. It can be used to cut pipes, grind surfaces and even work on electrical fittings, saving time and reducing the need to carry multiple heavy tools.
Tight spaces
For plumbers, tight spaces are a common challenge. Whether working under sinks, in crawl spaces or in lofts, having the right tools makes all the difference. HiKOKI’s multitool is lightweight and ergonomic designed so it excels in cramped environments, allowing precise work even in the most awkward positions.
The 36V High Torque Right Angle Drill, another tool in HiKOKI’s cordless lineup, is perfect for drilling in hard-to-reach areas. Its 90-degree angle design enables plumbers to drill through studs and joists in cramped spaces, facilitating the installation of pipes and other fixtures without the need for extensive dismantling.
These cordless tools not only improve productivity but also improve safety. With features like Reactive Force Control (RFC), which automatically shuts down the tool in case of dangerous twisting motions, plumbers can work confidently, even in challenging situations.
Food
There is nothing better than good food to see you through a hard day’s work. With battery power, you can keep your food warm or cold thanks to the UL18DBA Cordless Cooler and Warmer. It allows users to set the temperature anywhere from -18°C to +60°C across 17 different settings, making it suited to preserving all sorts of food and drink that might otherwise go off during the working day.
With a 25L volume that can fit 15 500ml bottles, the cooling box can be partitioned into two separate temperature zones, with a maximum temperature difference of 60°C between compartments – so you can simultaneously cool or warm different items depending on what they need. It is powered by 18V or Multi Volt batteries, a power outlet or an in-car 12V/24 V power supply. Connect it to a power supply during operation and the batteries will be conveniently recharged. It has two USB ports for charging portable devices and a DC 12V socket which can be used as a power supply for 12V devices.
Lights
As the days get shorter, poor lighting can quickly become a significant obstacle on-site. Insufficient lighting increases the risk of mistakes and accidents, slowing down progress and potentially compromising safety. To combat this, HiKOKI offers a range of cordless lighting solutions, designed to provide bright, portable illumination even in the darkest corners of a job site.
The UB18DG Cordless Tripod Light for example, offers up to 4,000 lumens of brightness, easily illuminating large work areas like basements or outdoor sites. Mounted on a tripod that extends up to 215cm, this light can be positioned to provide overhead illumination.
For plumbers working in smaller, more confined areas such as lofts or under cabinets, there is the UB18DB Cordless Compact Light. This light is designed to be easily mounted or suspended, offering 360-degree illumination with up to 51 hours of runtime on a single charge. Its compact size and adjustable angle make it ideal for providing light exactly where it’s needed.
Hybrid Power
One of the key advantages of HiKOKI’s cordless lighting range is the hybrid power option, allowing tools to switch between battery and mains power. This feature ensures that even if the batteries run low, plumbers can keep working without interruptions. Tools like the UB18DC Cordless Construction Light offer both corded and cordless options, ensuring continuous light for extended projects. Additionally, this model includes a USB port for charging mobile devices.
For larger sites or outdoor work in adverse weather conditions, the UB18DDJ4Z provides up to 10,000 lumens of brightness and is IP65 rated for protection against dust and water.
