The dripping pipe or loose wire you need to fix might be out in the open with plenty of working room and plenty of light. Too often, though, it’s in some dark recess of the house where there’s no chance of fixing the problem without a work light — also appropriately known as a trouble light.
The classic model is still used by many auto mechanics. It has an extension cord molded into the end of a light that’s shielded on one side and protected with a wire cage on the other. It still serves the purpose. But modern work lights are more adjustable and flexible, come corded and battery powered, and with a variety of wattages and bulb types, including LEDs and halogens.
Craftsman 1,000-watt tripod work light
The telescoping stand extends to almost 6 feet, though it needs a solid, flat surface and is more stable telescoped down, which is where you’re likely to need the light. And there’s plenty of it: two 500-watt cage-guarded halogen bulbs (included) in two adjustable reflectors. Power is the old fashioned type — you plug in the 12-foot cord.
Info: craftsman.com; $40
Black & Decker WLS17B Snake Light
One end houses the batteries (two C-size included) and the other a 14-LED light panel — plus, on the end, a standard beam flashlight. You can switch back and forth between the two types of light, and twist the connecting cable so the light is where you need it. Both business ends also disconnect from the cable and attach to each other to serve as a hand-held flash. The ingenious combination has twist and lock connections that work well once broken in.
Info: blackanddecker.com; about $20
DeWalt DCL510 12-Volt work light
This compact light (less battery) is an accessory. Many manufacturers include one in kits with drills and other tools that use the same battery and charger. It’s only 6 inches long, but shines a bright, concentrated LED light from the fully rotating and pivoting lamp. It can sit on a fold-down stand, hang from a belt clip or attach with built-in magnets. Its big brother (DC509, about $60) runs off a 36-volt lithium-ion battery.
Info: dewalt.com; about $35
Snap-on 92164 Rechargeable Work Light
This lightweight but sturdy update of the classic drop light has an array of 25 LEDs for bright area lighting that never becomes hot to the touch. The hook folds away if you’re using the handle. Power comes from rechargeable batteries that supply about 8 hours of run time with a 4- to 5-hour recharge. There’s also an AC adaptor for a wall outlet.
Info: snapon.com; about $35
Choosing a bulb
If your work light has a standard incandescent socket, use a bulb with a rough-service rating. Also called vibration-service bulbs, most have a thicker filament and filament supports than standard bulbs. They’re not particularly energy efficient, but it’s not as if they run all the time. Some also have shatter-resistant coatings for really tough handling. There are several types you can compare and price on websites like bulbs.com and 1000bulbs.com, including 200-watt models with ample light for repairs in dark places. Depending on the features and wattage, prices range from $2 to $8 or so for special shapes and coatings.
But many work lights now come with less-fragile light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Most rotate and flex to direct light exactly where you need it. And they can draw power from several sources, including typical flashlight batteries, rechargeable batteries, lithium-ion tool batteries and the old standard — a cord that plugs into an outlet.
