Make New Year DIY Projects Affordable: Save Money on Power Tools
Are you on the lookout to expand your toolbox without breaking the bank? You're in luck because we've got some insider tips on how to save money on power tools in the UK.
DIY enthusiasts and professional handypeople! Are you on the lookout to expand your toolbox without breaking the bank? You're in luck because we’ve got some insider tips on how to save money on power tools in the UK. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your DIY journey, these strategies will help you nab the best deals on those must-have gadgets.
Buy Second-Hand
If you’re only going to use it once or twice, why not buy a pre-loved power tool? It may take some time, but you can find good deals on barely used, great-condition power tools on sites like Gumtree, eBay or Facebook Marketplace. But be cautious and double-check the condition of what you’re buying. Remember, one person's 'barely used' can be another person's 'on its last legs.'
If you’re worried about the condition of second-hand tools, do as I do and buy certified refurbished products. With eBay, you can save up to 50% on certified refurbished power tools from brands such as Dewalt, Ryobi, Erbauer and Hyundai.
Buy Combo Kits:
When you're building your toolkit, consider combo kits. These sets often include multiple tools at a fraction of the cost of buying them separately. It's like buying in bulk but for tools! The combi drill and impact driver set is the most popular combo kit for DIYers and tradespeople. Almost every major tool store sells these in different brands, from Dewalt to Makita to Milwaukee. They often come with two batteries, the most expensive part of building a power tool collection.
For the tradies out there, you can buy sets of power tools with up to 10 pieces, which can net you massive savings over buying individual tools. However, these are often priced anywhere from £600 to well over £1000 depending on the brand and number of tools, so if you have the cash, it is a worthwhile investment, saving money in the long run. But smaller sets are also great value.
Hunt for Deals Like a Pro
The UK is a treasure trove of deals and discounts if you know where to look. Keep an eye on seasonal sales, especially around Black Friday and Boxing Day. Retailers like B&Q, Screwfix, and Toolstation often have killer deals. And remember online marketplaces like eBay and Gumtree, where you can snag some seriously discounted, gently used tools. Also, remember MyVoucherCodes, where we collect the latest and greatest discounts and vouchers for your use.
Price Match
Most power tools retailers such as Tool Station, Screwfix and FFX offer price matching, so if you see it cheaper elsewhere, ask them to match it.
Buy Only What You’ll Use
Now, let's talk about what you need. It's easy to get swayed by the latest, shiniest power tool on the market, but will you use all those fancy features? Instead, opt for the store and budget brands like Erbauer, Titan, Bauker or Einhell.
I worked in Screwfix for five years at school and university and can thoroughly recommend their Erbauer range. I bought Screwfix's brand Erbauer combi drill and impact drill combo set for just £79 during a Black Friday sale. It has worked a treat for years. They have the same warranty as Dewalt and Makita and often come with bigger batteries.
Stick With The Same Brand
Mixing and matching brands of power tools isn’t the best idea, and it's best avoided. Each brand has its own battery style, storage case, and sometimes fittings, making owning them more expensive and stressful than needed. By sticking to the same brand of power tool, all the batteries will be interchangeable and in a similar price range; plus, any storage boxes you have by the same brand will also work better. You can also buy combo packs from tool stores, which will net you more significant savings than buying each tool individually.
Reward Clubs & Loyalty
Some hardware stores like B&Q, Tool Station and Screwfix have free memberships. Though you don’t save directly on power tools, you do get vouchers and discounts sent to your inbox or through the post. For example, by signing up for B&Q Club and spending £30, you’ll get a £5 voucher sent to you.
Also, signing up for loyalty programs and newsletters can be a goldmine for exclusive discounts and early sale access. Yes, it's one more email in your inbox, but those 10% off coupons can add up.
Consider Renting
Power tools are expensive and take up a fair amount of space. If you’re a contractor, then owning your tools makes sense. But if you’re a DIYer who only uses a drill once in a blue moon, renting a tool for a day may be better than paying the total price and finding somewhere to store it. For example, buying a brush cutter from Screwfix would cost at least £120, while companies such as HSS Hire offer rentals from approximately £54, saving you £66 versus buying it new and using it once.
Trade Accounts
Are you a tradesperson? It's 100% worth your time to sign up for trade accounts at your local tool stores. You get discounts in-store and exclusive discounts and offers sent to you via post and email. For example, at Toolstation, trade account holders get 5% off everything in-store. In contrast, a Trade Point account from B&Q can net you huge savings on everything from appliances to fitted kitchens with loyalty discounts on top, while with Wickes, a TradePro account nets you 10% off your order every time you shop.
Read Reviews
We've all been there – lured in by an unbeatable price, only to discover the tool doesn't live up to the hype. That's where reviews come in. They're the unsung heroes that can save you from buyer's remorse. Take the time to read reviews and make an informed decision.
Take Care of Your Tools
It seems obvious, but when I worked in a tool store, the sheer number of people who mistreated, mishandled, and misused their power tools was crazy. If you use your tool on the correct setting, aren’t needlessly rough with it and store it correctly in a dry, safe place, you’ll extend the life of your tool way past warranty. The most expensive part of caring for a tool is buying a new one. So take care of your tools, and they’ll take care of you.
Warranties
Lastly, always check the warranty and guarantee policy. A solid warranty can save you much money in the long run, especially on those pricier investments.
So there you have it, your roadmap to saving on power tools in the UK. Whether waiting for the right sale, going for refurbished gems, or being a savvy shopper, there are plenty of ways to keep your wallet happy. Happy tool hunting!
For more great tips on saving money with DIY, check out our article on ways to decorate on a budget.
I started at MyVoucherCodes as a Deal Expert, sourcing top deals and discount codes. I combined these skills with my passion for writing to become an Editor, helping readers save money. As a former student and homeowner, I understand the need to budget and provide shopping tips, especially for vegetarian and vegan diets. I've also written for publications like The Sun, My Weekly, iPaper and Pick Me Up!
In my spare time, I play video games, write reviews for GameReport, and explore tech gadgets. I also enjoy DIY projects, having worked in a tool store and renovated my home on a budget.