You Can Hang Power Tools By Their Cords. But Is It A Good Idea?

When it comes to storing and organizing your power tools, you need to think about how to best protect the expensive equipment from damage. It can be tricky to do this while simultaneously storing tools neatly and as compactly as possible to save space. Some people opt to hang the equipment from hooks installed on a wall by the cord. As you may have guessed, this is not a good idea. The problem with this storage method is that it puts so much weight on the cord that it could damage it, potentially leading to electrical shock or fire.

The stress placed on the equipment by hanging it from the cord can even harm the plug. Any of this damage may not only prevent your power tools from working but also spark an electrical fire. According to a report published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fires caused by electrical failure or malfunction affected 46,700 homes in the US on average every year from 2015 to 2019. The report also found that in 9% of these fires, the first item ignited was an appliance, such as a power tool, and that electrical failures and malfunctions caused 13% of all home fires within this time frame. Since a damaged cord on a power tool is at risk of causing an electrical fire, this data serves as a warning against storing your tools in an unsafe way.

Hanging power tools by their cords is clearly not a safe option, so you will need to select a different storage method. Luckily, there are quite a few other options that are less hazardous and just as convenient. Consider attaching the tool to a peg board. Just remember to wrap the cord properly to keep it neat and protected. You can use a product like the Heavy-Duty Wrap-It Storage Straps to secure the cord after you have wound it up. 

Creating a DIY tool storage solution with the Slat 45 system is an alternative worth considering as well. You also have the option to store your tools in their original packaging. This is a great option if your equipment came tucked away neatly in a plastic case when you purchased it. Just be sure to keep the case stored on a countertop or shelf off of the ground. This will protect your tools from liquid spills or water leaks.