15 · Power Tools

Orbital Sander

Also called Random orbital sander · RO sander · Palm sander

A sander whose circular pad moves in an orbit for an even, swirl-free finish on wood, metal and plastic.

Electric (corded)

Sizes & models we rent

5" variable speed, hook and loop
View in the rental catalogue ↗Compare →

Overview

A random orbital sander spins its pad and moves it in a small orbit at the same time, so no grain of abrasive travels the same path twice. That is what gives a swirl-free finish where a plain rotary sander leaves circular marks.

We rent a 5 in. Furniture refinishing, prepping doors, cabinets and trim for paint, smoothing between coats, and light rust and paint removal.

Work up through the grits — 80, then 120, then 180 — because each one removes the scratches the last one left.

Keep the pad flat and let the tool's own weight supply the pressure. Pushing down slows the orbit and puts the swirl marks straight back.

Best uses

  • Furniture refinishing
  • Prepping doors, cabinets and trim for paint
  • Smoothing between coats
  • Light rust and paint removal

Troubleshooting

Swirl marks in the finish

Checks to try, in order

  1. Ease off the pressure.
  2. Don't skip grits.
  3. Clean off grit trapped under the pad.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Sanding disc won't stick

Checks to try, in order

  1. The hook-and-loop pad is worn — ask for a replacement pad.
  2. Line up the dust holes when fitting discs.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Tool won't switch onShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

  • Tripped GFCI or breaker
  • Lock-off button
  • Damaged cord
  • Dead outlet

Checks to try, in order

  1. Check the outlet works and reset any GFCI / RCD that has tripped.
  2. Release the lock-off button or safety switch before squeezing the trigger.
  3. Inspect the cord and extension lead for cuts, crushed sections or damaged plugs.
  4. If running from a generator, make sure it's running and its breaker hasn't tripped.

A damaged cord or plug means the tool is out of service. Tag it and return it — never tape a cord.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Keeps tripping the breakerShared · Electric (corded)

Likely causes

  • Circuit overloaded
  • Undersized extension cord
  • Blunt accessory

Checks to try, in order

  1. Plug into a circuit with nothing else heavy running on it.
  2. Use a shorter, heavier extension cord. Long, thin cords starve the motor and trip breakers.
  3. Don't force the tool — a dull bit, blade or disc makes the motor draw more current.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?
Overheating, burning smell or heavy sparkingShared · Electric (corded)

Checks to try, in order

  1. Stop and unplug the tool.
  2. Check the motor vents aren't blocked with dust.
  3. Let it cool, fit a sharp accessory and let the tool's weight do the work.

Heavy sparking from the vents or a burning smell that returns points to worn brushes or a failing motor — workshop only.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

Link to this fixDid this solve the problem?

Safety

For electric (corded)

  • Inspect the cord and plug before every use. Use a GFCI/RCD outdoors or near water.
  • Unplug before changing blades, bits, discs or pads.
  • Wear eye protection, and a dust mask when cutting, grinding or sanding masonry.

Videos & links

Related equipment

All Power Tools →

Always follow the manufacturer’s manual and site safety rules. Favourites and viewing history are stored on this device.