Home Problems
GFCI Outlet Won't Reset? Causes and What to Check
GFCI outlet won't reset or outlets are dead? Check for another tripped GFCI, unplug everything and test the device. Learn when to replace it or call an electrician.
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Tool Names and Uses: Hand, Power and Garden Tools List
Search a list of common tools, grouped by type, with what each one is used for. Hand tools, power tools, garden tools, plumbing and electrical tools explained.
How to use the Tool Names and Uses
- Search by tool name, or by the job you need to do, such as cut metal.
- Filter by type of tool to browse hand tools, power tools, garden tools and more.
- Read the short description to see what each tool is used for.
Types of tools
Most tools fall into a few groups.
- Hand tools are powered by your muscles: hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches and saws.
- Power tools run on electricity, batteries or air: drills, sanders, circular saws and nail guns.
- Garden tools work the soil and the yard: shovels, rakes, hoes and pruning shears.
- Measuring tools help you get it right: tape measures, levels and squares.
- Plumbing and electrical tools include pipe wrenches, plungers, multimeters and wire strippers.
A starter set for a home
| Tool | What it does |
|---|---|
| Hammer | Drives and pulls nails |
| Screwdriver set | Turns Phillips and flathead screws |
| Pliers | Grip, bend and cut wire |
| Adjustable wrench | Turns nuts and bolts of different sizes |
| Tape measure | Measures length |
| Level | Checks a surface is flat or straight |
| Utility knife | Cuts cardboard, tape and carpet |
| Cordless drill | Drills holes and drives screws |
Pick the right tool for the job
Match the tool to the material. A hacksaw cuts metal pipe, a handsaw cuts wood and a jigsaw makes curved cuts. For fasteners, a drill drives small screws and an impact driver drives long ones.
Use power tools safely
Wear safety glasses, unplug or remove the battery before changing a bit and keep cords away from the cutting path. If a corded tool trips the outlet, see what to do when a GFCI outlet will not reset. Looking for Spanish names? Use the tools in Spanish list. If the power is out on the job, the generator size calculator shows what you can run.
Frequently asked questions
What are the basic hand tools every home needs?
A hammer, a screwdriver set, pliers, an adjustable wrench, a tape measure, a level and a utility knife cover most household jobs.
What is the difference between hand tools and power tools?
Hand tools are powered by you, such as a hammer or a handsaw. Power tools use electricity, a battery or compressed air, such as a drill or a circular saw.
What is an impact driver used for?
An impact driver drives long screws and lag bolts with extra turning force. It is stronger than a regular drill for that job but is not meant for drilling holes in most materials.
What tool do I use to cut metal?
A hacksaw cuts metal by hand, and an angle grinder with a cutting disc cuts it faster. Wear safety glasses and gloves with either one.
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