10 Tools That Overheat Fast in the Middle of Summer

Working outside in the summer means more than breaking a sweat. The heat can mess with your tools too—especially if you’re using them for long stretches or leaving them out in the sun. Overheating can shorten their lifespan, kill the battery, or even damage internal parts.

If something starts acting up during a project, this might be why. Keep these tools shaded, give them breaks, and know which ones are most likely to overheat when temps climb.

Cordless Drills

Battery-powered drills don’t handle heat well. If you’re drilling nonstop in full sun, expect the battery or motor to cut out. Lithium-ion batteries especially don’t like high temps, and leaving them in the sun can permanently reduce their performance.

If you’re drilling outdoors, work in short bursts and give the tool a chance to cool down. Swap batteries if you can. And always store them somewhere shaded once you’re done—they’ll last longer that way.

Pressure Washers

Pressure washers, especially gas-powered ones, can run hot fast. They’re pushing a lot of water through a high-powered pump, and when it’s already 95° out, the whole system can overheat in no time.

Letting them idle for too long without spraying also makes things worse. Use them in intervals, and keep the pump cool by actually spraying water regularly. Always give them a full cooldown before storing.

Lawn Mowers

Your mower’s engine is already working hard, but in summer, grass is thick and sticky, and the heat slows air circulation. That combo leads to overheating faster than most people expect.

Keep the deck clean underneath, change the oil when you’re supposed to, and never mow in the peak heat of the day. You’ll get a better cut and avoid burning up your engine—or yourself.

String Trimmers

Trimmers deal with constant motion, friction, and sometimes clogged lines—all of which get worse in high heat. Smaller motors in electric trimmers especially can overheat quickly if you’re running full throttle for long.

Clear the head often, use quality line, and give the tool a break if it starts sounding weird or hot to the touch. Don’t wrap the cord or battery up tight right after using—it needs to cool first.

Chainsaws

Whether it’s electric or gas, chainsaws can overheat fast in hot weather—especially if you’re cutting green or sappy wood. A dull chain makes the motor work even harder, building up heat.

Make sure your chain is sharp, the bar oil is full, and the vents aren’t clogged. Take a break between cuts, and if you smell burning or notice it slowing down, stop before it wrecks the engine.

Air Compressors

Compressors build up a lot of heat from the air pressure alone, but when you’re running them outdoors during summer, the motor and internal parts can struggle. It’s even worse if the compressor is small and doesn’t have good airflow.

If the unit starts cycling erratically or sounds strained, let it cool completely before running it again. Use it in the shade when possible, and keep the intake vents clean and clear.

Leaf Blowers

Yes, even in summer, some folks use blowers—for grass clippings, sawdust, or patios. But they’re not immune to the heat. The high-speed motor and fan can overheat fast in hot conditions, especially if you’re blowing around fine dust or debris that clogs the intake.

Clean the filter often and don’t block the airflow while you’re using it. Battery versions will cut off automatically if they get too hot—don’t ignore that warning.

Circular Saws

Circular saws generate a lot of heat when cutting through wood or composite materials, and the blade friction adds to it. On hot days, that heat builds fast—especially if you’re making deep or continuous cuts.

Use sharp blades, and take your time. If the saw starts feeling sluggish or smells hot, pause before you fry the motor. Keep it shaded when not in use, and never leave it baking on a workbench in direct sun.

Nail Guns

Pneumatic or battery-powered, nail guns can overheat if you’re firing rapidly in high temps. The motor or compressor behind the tool builds up heat, and if it gets too hot, it can misfire or jam.

Work in sections, and let the tool cool between rounds. Keep an eye on any connected compressor, and always store nail guns somewhere shaded after use.

Table Saws

Big tools aren’t immune. Table saws can overheat when the motor runs too long or the blade binds up—both more likely when it’s 90+ degrees and the wood is slightly swollen from humidity.

Keep the blade sharp, don’t force cuts, and let the motor breathe. If you’re working outdoors, give it some shade or move the project to a cooler part of the day.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.