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Household hacks: How to drill a hole with a power drill

The Gaff Goddess: A beginner’s guide to setting up and using a power drill at home

Like all DIY tasks the most common mistakes can be avoided with the right set-up and a calm, informed approach

Laura de Barra
Wed Jan 26 2022 - 09:20

Have you been avoiding the drill setting on your power drill? Is it only really used on the screw setting for flat packs etc? This one’s for you.

Like all DIY tasks the most common mistakes can be avoided with the right set-up and a calm, informed approach. Let’s begin with a quick run through of the parts, starting at the top front.

Chuck: Usually black with grip texture. The hole in the middle holds drill bits in place.

Clutch/Torque control: This dial behind the chuck that sets the torque (the force that causes rotation) for the job. The drill icon is for drilling, the numbers apply when screwing.

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Gear/Mode: After the dial you may see a one and two option. One will usually be slower with a higher torque so great for screws, and Two will be better for drilling holes as it has a higher speed and a lower torque.

Forward/Reverse: As we come underneath the clutch, there will be a button that can set the action to clockwise/anti-clockwise and safety.

Trigger: At the top of the handle is a trigger. Like any trigger, pull it and the action happens.

Battery: At the bottom of the handle is the removable battery. Always make sure it is fully charged. A low battery will rotate the bit but won't be as powerful and can damage screws or walls.

Now we know what the most important parts are, we are ready to go.

Let’s select a drill bit. You want one that matches the surface you are about to drill into. Your box of bits should have a guide on what will match your job. Size is also very important. Too small and you can damage the rawl plug or hanger when inserting. Too big, you risk the whole lot falling out once weight is hung from it. My best advice is to look up a guide online if you are unsure. There are many that will point you in the right direction.

While you are here; choose a thinner drill bit too. This will allow you to drill a thinner pilot hole first, which makes drilling the thicker bit in afterwards a dream, it will also up your confidence. Stunning.

Time to load your bit. Twist the chuck anti-clockwise, you’ll see the jaws open as you do. Insert your chosen bit, flat end first. It is best as a beginner to tighten the chuck by hand, twisting the chuck clockwise to close the jaws around the bit.

Time to check the torque: is it on the drill setting? And now your gear, is it correct?

You are ready to start drilling your hole. Always, always run a detector over the chosen spot before you begin to make sure you are not drilling into cables or pipes. Don’t press the trigger until the drill bit is against the wall. Remember to keep the drill straight, go slow and steady, keeping your pressure the same throughout. You’ve got this.