Multi-Head Drills

This is a tool review, not really energy-upgrade news, but it touches on gear that comes up in DIY weatherization and remodeling work around the house. A remodeler tested seven cordless "multi-head" drills from Festool, Bosch, DeWalt, and Milwaukee. These drills have a swappable chuck system: you can pop off the main drill head and attach an offset chuck, a right-angle chuck, or a straight hex-bit holder, which makes it much easier to drill holes and drive screws in tight spots like cabinet interiors, stud cavities, and cramped mechanical closets where a normal drill or impact driver doesn't fit or leaves damage.

For anyone tackling their own energy upgrades, like running wire or pipe through wall cavities, mounting register boots, or fastening equipment brackets in a tight mechanical room, this kind of drill can make those tricky, close-quarters spots easier to work in and reduce the risk of stripped screws or marred surfaces. The reviewer's top pick overall was the Festool 18V, at $555 for a kit with battery and charger, praised for its quiet motor and precise controls. His pick for best value was the Bosch 18V Flexiclick, at $320, which he said performs nearly as well for close to half the price. DeWalt and Milwaukee versions, some at 12-volt and priced from $180 to $249, also tested well, particularly for people already invested in one of those battery systems.