Electric planers are good for taking ridges or high spots out of timber floors when you're installing a hard underlay on top.

But you need to be very careful when you use them.

Always double-check that there are no hidden nails, screws or other hard objects that might hit the cutters in the material you're planing.

If the cutters strike anything hard while they're turning, it can damage them in an instant.

In general, be extremely careful while the planer is running.

The cutters are unguarded, and will cut anything that comes into contact with them - timber, floor coverings, clothing, fingers and anything else.

Before you put the planer down after using it, make sure the cutters have stopped turning.

Always disconnect the planer from the power source before clearing out shavings or checking the cutters.

You can either lay it on its side, or put it on a soft material that won't damage the cutters.

Remember, the cutters are razor sharp, which makes the edge quite fragile if it is bumped against hard surfaces.

Basic operating procedure

1. Set the cutting depth of the planer by sitting it on the work and adjusting the knob.
   
   
2. Position your body so you're in a comfortable balanced position, especially if you're crouching on the floor. Make sure the power lead is out of the way of the planer path. You can put the lead over your shoulder if you think it might get in the way.
   
   
3. Start the planer and allow it to reach full speed before commencing the cut.
   
   
4. Push the planer smoothly forward with an even motion, in the direction of the grain. Be particularly careful to hold the planer flat against the work at the start and finish of the cut and not let it dip at either end.