Equipment Guides Articles - Get the Most Out Of Your Gear

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Get the most out of your facility's gear and equipment with our buying guides, checklists, articles and how-to videos.

Equipment

Motor Starters and Enclosures for Equipment Safety

What KnowHow Are You Looking For?

Equipment

The Complete Tool Storage and Organization Guide

Storing tools the right way makes life easier. Tool storage cabinets, tool chests and lockers are just the beginning to storage and organization.

03/09/26

Equipment

What Are All of Those Gadgets on a Multitool?

This article features the different categories of multitools and explains the many uses for each type.

03/09/26

Equipment

Replacement Thermostat Guide

If you understand some basic principles, you can choose an upgraded replacement thermostat to bring new capabilities to your existing equipment.

03/06/26

Equipment

Types of Lockout Tagout Padlocks

Lockout tagout padlocks come in a variety of types. Learn about the different kinds and see which lockout tagout padlock fits your workspace.

03/06/26

Equipment

Types of Sump Pumps and How They Work

Using a sump pump can help prevent water damage in your facility. Learn more about how sump pumps work and the different types available.

03/05/26

Equipment

Common Problems You Can Solve with Ratchets and Socket Wrenches

Learn the difference between socket wrenches and ratchets, when to use each and how to choose the right tool for tight spaces, torque control and repetitive tasks.

03/02/26

Abrasives

Sandpaper Grit Charts & Grades

03/06/24

Ask the Experts: Choose the Right Type of Grinding Wheel for the Job

04/28/20

Ask the Experts: Surface Grinding Wheel Safety

05/08/19

Characteristics of Abrasives

08/08/18

Adhesives, Sealants and Tape

Caulking vs. Sealants: What Facility Managers Need to Know

10/03/25

Stick Together: Choose the Right Adhesive

09/19/25

Floor Marking Guide: Tape, Shapes and OSHA Best Practices

09/17/25

Top 10 Commercial Painting Supplies Needed for Every Job

10/01/16

Cleaning and Janitorial

How to Choose the Right Floor Cleaning Machine for Your Facility

02/13/26

Are You Using the Best Cleaning Cloth for the Task?

11/17/25

10 Must-Have Window Cleaning Supplies and Tools

02/22/24

Selecting the Right Shop or Wet/ Dry Vacuum for Your Maintenance Needs

09/21/23

Do Floor Cleaning Pad Colors Matter?

03/08/23

Choosing the Right Trash Bag Size

07/15/22

Hand Sanitizer Safety Guide: Storing and Dispensing

11/30/21

Biodegradable Garbage Bags vs. Compostable Bags

10/05/21

Are You Drying Your Hands the Right Way?

05/18/20

Bleach and Mold: Busting the Myth

07/01/19

8 Must-Have Cleaning Supplies to Buy in Bulk

01/01/19

How to Clean Floors by Type of Flooring

01/01/17

Electrical

9 Tips for Wire and Cord Management at Work

03/02/26

Don't Blow It: 3 Common Fuse Mistakes

10/14/25

EV Charging and More: 10 Uses for Portable Generators

04/01/24

NEMA Plug Configuration Chart

09/13/23

Electrical Safety: Choosing the Right Extension Cord

04/25/23

Guide To Electrical Contact Cleaners

06/08/22

Product Guide to Electrical Conduit and Fittings

02/21/22

What Are Surge Protectors and How to Choose One to Buy

07/15/19

What Is a Current Transformer?

05/01/17

Circuit Breaker Types & Replacement Guide

03/01/17

Electronics & Batteries

Choosing the Right Two-Way Radios for Business and Emergencies

11/17/23

Can You Ace This True or False Battery Maintenance Quiz?

01/23/23

Fasteners

Common Problems You Can Solve with Ratchets and Socket Wrenches

03/02/26

Types of Washers And How They Are Used

09/15/25

10 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fastener

06/03/24

Wall Anchor Types & Selection Guide

03/27/24

Choosing the Right Type of Screw

07/26/19

Thread Galling Basics

09/01/17

Fleet & Vehicle Maintenance

Generators Guide: How to Choose and Maintain the Right Generator

02/10/26

How to Keep Your Fleet Compliant with DEF and Other Essentials

08/21/25

Furnishings, Appliances & Hospitality

Office Ergonomics Choosing an Adjustable Desk

12/13/21

Commercial Kitchen Supplies and Equipment Checklist

11/01/17

HVAC and Refrigeration

Replacement Thermostat Guide

03/06/26

Selecting the Right Industrial Air Filters and Cleaners

02/23/26

HVAC Winter Prep and Maintenance

09/23/25

5 HVAC Emergencies And How to Avoid Them

08/19/25

What Is MERV Rating? Air Filter Rating Chart

05/24/25

Guide to Choosing an Air Curtain

02/05/24

How to Choose the Right Dehumidifier

09/12/23

How to Choose the Right Exhaust Fan

03/17/23

The Humidifier Guide: How to Choose and Use a Humidifier

01/31/23

Roof Vent Types: Choosing the Right Rooftop Ventilator

01/04/23

Types of Pressure Relief Valves

11/01/22

Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner Guide

08/17/21

Portable Air Conditioner Guide

05/05/21

Evaporative Cooler & Swamp Cooler Guide

05/03/21

Portable Heater Guide: Choosing the Best Space Heater for Your Location

11/18/20

Portable Air Purifiers and Cleaners: What You Need to Know

09/15/20

HEPA Air Filters: A Productivity Lifesaver

07/01/19

Centrifugal Fan Types: A Selection Guide to Keep the Air Moving

12/10/18

Air Conditioner Maintenance Guide

03/15/18

Commercial Kitchen Supplies and Equipment Checklist

11/01/17

Hardware

5 Considerations for Selecting Drawer Slides

09/04/25

Types of Door Weatherstripping and Thresholds

04/04/22

Types of Door Locks and Their Security Level

01/18/22

Types of Springs and Their Uses

07/25/19

Hex Head Cap Screw Technical Information Guide

07/01/19

Hinge Selection Table

07/01/17

Hydraulics

Types of Hydraulic Presses and How They Work

01/12/21

Jaws of Life, Other Types of Hydraulic Rescue Tools & Their Uses

07/31/19

Lab Supplies

Types of Balances and Scales

05/31/23

How to Use and Read a Hydrometer

12/16/22

Guide to Laboratory Bottles and Jars

01/11/21

Laboratory Beaker Guide: Types, Materials and Cleaning

11/16/20

4 Advantages of Wireless Precision Measuring Tools

09/23/20

What Is Ethidium Bromide?

05/20/20

Bunsen Burners, Meker Burners and Tirrill Burners: What's the Difference?

05/12/20

How Does Autoclave Sterilization Work?

04/28/20

How To Clean and Maintain Precision Balances and Analytical Balances

04/22/20

How to Clean Laboratory Glassware

04/03/20

Micropipette and Pipette Storage Tips

02/05/20

How Does a Fume Hood Work?

02/04/20

Choosing the Right Water Testing Equipment for Your Facility

02/04/20

pH Electrode Types and Uses

07/17/19

Microscope Types, Parts and Terms

07/16/19

Lighting

Lighting Controls: Key Terms and Cutting-Edge Concepts

02/16/26

Types of Outdoor Lighting and Installation

02/12/26

Increase Lighting Efficiency with LED Drivers and Fluorescent Ballasts

12/04/23

Tips for Choosing the Right Type of Lighting

10/08/23

Guide To Choosing the Right Flashlight

11/02/22

Choosing the Right LED Replacement Bulb

03/04/22

5 Reasons to Upgrade Lighting Controls (Beyond Energy Efficiency)

07/26/21

What to Consider When Choosing a Light Bulb

07/30/19

Broken Parts: How to Properly Dispose of Sharp Objects

07/01/19

Types of Lighting Control Systems

06/01/17

Figure Out What Type of Fluorescent Light Bulb You Need

12/31/16

Lubrication

Industrial Lubricants: Types, Uses and How to Spot Problems

10/09/25

Machining

Precision Measurement: Guide to Calipers

12/01/21

Choosing a Micrometer for the Perfect Fit

10/03/21

4 Advantages of Wireless Precision Measuring Tools

09/23/20

Ask the Experts: Handling and Caring for End Mills and Taps

05/19/20

Choosing the Right Bi-Metal Hole Saw

08/19/19

Ask the Experts: How to Tram a Head on a Manual Mill

05/08/19

Ask The Experts: How to Check Screws on Insert Holders

09/05/18

Ask the Experts: How to Run a CNC Mill Warm Up

09/04/18

Material Handling

How To Choose the Best Configurable Ladder for the Job

04/18/24

Built to Last: Navigating Workbench Options

11/17/23

Choosing the Right Hoist: Chain Falls, Come-Alongs, Electric Hoists and More

10/06/23

Choosing the Right Winch: Pulling, Lifting and More

10/06/23

Storage Container Guide: Bins, Totes, Bulk Containers and Boxes

11/14/22

Advantages of Shrink Wrapping

10/18/22

Choosing The Right Ladder For The Job

09/23/22

Office Ergonomics Choosing an Adjustable Desk

12/13/21

Types of Casters & Wheel Guide

04/07/21

Utility Cart Guide: Metal, Plastic, Wire

02/24/21

Choose the Right Hand Truck, Cart Or Dolly for the Job

02/03/21

Hand Truck Selection Chart

11/11/20

How to Choose the Right Drum Pump

08/15/19

Workbench Height Ergonomics - Are You Working at the Right Height?

05/01/18

Commercial Kitchen Supplies and Equipment Checklist

11/01/17

Top 10 Commercial Painting Supplies Needed for Every Job

10/01/16

Motors

Motor Starters and Enclosures for Equipment Safety

03/11/26

NEMA Motor Frame Chart

01/22/24

How To Choose a Replacement Motor

11/02/23

Troubleshooting Common Motor Problems

10/11/23

Office Supplies

How to Choose Label Printer Supplies for Your Workplace

08/27/25

What's Included in a Packaging Station?

05/28/21

Outdoor Equipment

Generators Guide: How to Choose and Maintain the Right Generator

02/10/26

Facility Pest Control: How IPM Helps Safely Manage Insects

10/20/25

String Trimmer vs. Lawn Edger: Which One Do You Need?

09/04/25

12 Cleaning Projects Made Easier By Pressure Washing

08/14/25

EV Charging and More: 10 Uses for Portable Generators

04/01/24

8 Must-Have Pruning Tools for Outdoor Maintenance

09/12/23

Lawn Mower Maintenance Checklists

06/28/22

Pressure Washer Buying Guide: Choose the Right Pressure Washer for the Job

06/16/22

Generator Sizing Calculation Guide

01/04/22

Portable Generator Safety Guide

01/14/21

How to Shovel Snow Safely

01/03/20

Snow Blower Buying Guide

10/01/17

Packaging & Shipping

How to Choose Shipping Box Size, Shape and Strength

06/13/24

Guide to Protective Packaging Materials for Shipping

03/25/24

Choose the Right Packaging Tape and Tape Dispensers

08/03/21

Guide to Choosing the Right Stretch Wrap

07/25/21

Guide to Protective Packaging and Void Fill

06/04/21

What's Included in a Packaging Station?

05/28/21

Packaging Guidelines & Shipping Requirements

09/01/17

Paints, Equipment and Supplies

Spray Paint Guide: Types and Tips for Every Project

04/05/24

A Primer on Industrial Paint and Stains

06/24/20

How to Choose the Right Paint Brush or Roller for the Job

04/29/20

Top 10 Commercial Painting Supplies Needed for Every Job

10/01/16

Pipe, Hose, Tube & Fittings

Pipes & Pipe Fittings Guide

01/31/24

Plumbing

What's Your Check Valve Telling You? Diagnosing Noisy Pipes

02/24/26

How to Choose the Right Ceiling Tiles

02/20/26

Clean That Water: Filtration and Purification Guide

02/17/26

Tankless Water Heaters vs. Storage Tank Water Heaters

10/01/25

10 Must-Have Plumbing Tools and Supplies for Any Emergency

09/16/25

Pipes & Pipe Fittings Guide

01/31/24

Easy Answers to Hard Water Problems: How Water Softeners Work

01/02/23

Types of Pressure Relief Valves

11/01/22

How Do Waterless Urinals Work?

09/29/21

How to Choose the Right Plumbing Pipe

04/02/21

Water Heater Maintenance

03/09/20

What Is a Tankless Water Heater and How to Install One

08/29/19

Stainless Steel vs Carbon Steel Pipes: Which is Right for Your Application

08/08/19

Types of Faucets & Installation Guide

03/01/17

Pneumatics

What Drives Your Impact Wrench? Pneumatic Vs. Cordless Power

10/23/23

Choose the Right Air Compressor for the Job

03/16/22

6 Uses for Quick Connect Couplers

07/22/20

Power Transmission

How To Do V-Belt Maintenance for Electric Motors

02/17/26

How to Select the Right Gearmotor

04/15/22

Types of Belt Drives and How They Improve Efficiency

08/19/19

Pumps

Types of Sump Pumps and How They Work

03/05/26

How to Choose the Correct Size Pond Water Pump

09/13/23

Choosing the Right Pump for the Job

02/04/20

How to Choose the Right Drum Pump

08/15/19

How to Install and Replace a Sump Pump

02/01/17

Safety

Types of Lockout Tagout Padlocks

03/06/26

Guide To Choosing Lockout/Tagout Devices

02/27/26

5 Safety Eyewash Station Myths Debunked

02/17/26

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher in the Workplace

02/13/26

Why More Workers Are Wearing Cooling Vests in the Heat

09/16/25

Where and When to Use Antislip Treads, Nosings and Tape

07/18/25

Active vs. Passive Hearing Protection: What’s the Difference?

12/19/23

Choosing and Using an AED in the Workplace

02/27/23

How to Select Portable Fire Extinguishers

02/12/23

What Do LOTO Color Codes Mean?

02/03/23

Controlling Traffic with Cones, Barricades and More

11/25/22

How to Choose the Right Anti-Fatigue Mats for Your Workplace

08/26/22

Construction Safety Helmets vs. Hard Hats: A New Approach

01/11/21

8 Must-Have Cleaning Supplies to Buy in Bulk

01/01/19

What Is a Sorbent and How Do Sorbents Work?

01/01/17

Security

Types of Door Locks and Their Security Level

01/18/22

Test Instruments

Generators Guide: How to Choose and Maintain the Right Generator

02/10/26

8 Things to Consider When Investing in an Infrared Camera

10/18/22

4 Advantages of Wireless Precision Measuring Tools

09/23/20

Tools

The Complete Tool Storage and Organization Guide

03/09/26

What Are All of Those Gadgets on a Multitool?

03/09/26

Common Problems You Can Solve with Ratchets and Socket Wrenches

03/02/26

Generators Guide: How to Choose and Maintain the Right Generator

02/10/26

Power Saw Blades: Choosing the Right Blade for the Job

02/02/26

Types of Hammers and Their Uses

09/16/25

5 Tips and Ideas to Organizing Your Workbench

09/03/25

Brushless vs. Brushed Power Tool Motors: What’s the Difference?

08/19/25

5 Tips for Maximizing the Life of Power Tool Batteries

08/19/25

Creative Ways to Use Drills and Drivers

08/15/25

The Many Uses for Oscillating Tools

08/14/25

Sandpaper Grit Charts & Grades

03/06/24

Choosing the Right Cordless Tool Battery

01/23/24

What Drives Your Impact Wrench? Pneumatic Vs. Cordless Power

10/23/23

Choose the Right Drill Bit for Metals and Plastic

05/25/23

What Are the Types of Tool Sets?

04/12/23

Diagnosing Power Tool Problems: 5 Warning Signs and What They Mean

02/23/23

Can You Ace This True or False Battery Maintenance Quiz?

01/23/23

24 Must-Have Woodworking Tools for Your Workshop

10/26/22

Corded vs. Cordless Tools – Which is Better?

09/28/22

5 Trends Driving the Power Tool Industry

09/08/22

Choosing and Using the Right Plier for the Job

09/06/22

All About Sockets: Types of Sockets

05/23/22

4 Tips for Preventing Corrosion

04/15/22

Power Tool Face-Off: Air Tools vs. Electric

04/14/22

Drill Drivers vs. Impact Drivers

03/16/22

8 Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Power Tools

02/14/22

How to Choose the Right Plumbing Snake for the Job

01/04/22

Diagnosing Your Power Tools: 5 Warning Signs & What They Mean

07/14/21

The List of Power Tools Every Business Should Have

05/25/21

The List of Hand Tools Your Business Should Have

06/22/20

Types of Saws, Their Uses and Operating Safety Tips

09/02/19

7 Common Power Tool Replacement Parts

07/01/19

101 Applications for Laser Distance Meters

07/01/19

Types of Screwdrivers and Their Uses

06/21/19

Ask the Experts: The Benefits of Indexable Tools

09/05/18

Ask the Experts: Milling Machine Vise Alignment for Quick Changeover

09/04/18

Power Drill Buying Guide & Their Uses

08/31/17

Torque Wrench Types Guide

04/30/17

Power Tool Buying Guide: 5 Essential Power Tools

01/01/17

Welding

Types of Welding and the Tools You Need

02/11/26

How Do Plasma Cutters Work?

05/18/22

Tips for Choosing a Welding Helmet

08/09/21

Choosing Oxy-Fuel vs Plasma Cutting Systems

10/31/19

Ask the Experts: How to Choose the Proper Electrode

05/09/19

Welding Advice from a Mobile Metal Fabricator

10/15/18

Tips on How to Solder for the Best Results

08/10/18

Stick Welding (SMAW) for Equipment Repair

01/01/17

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