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How to set up and use a soldering iron

Side on image of a soldering iron placed on stand

Overview

Whether you're repairing electronics, making jewellery, building circuits, or working on small D.I.Y. projects, a soldering iron is a useful tool to have. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of setting up and using a soldering iron.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Gather the materials

Start by gathering all the necessary materials for soldering. If you don't have a soldering kit, here's what you'll need: a soldering station (a bench, for example), soldering iron, soldering stand, solder wire and a sponge. Once you have these materials ready, you’ll be able to start on your soldering projects.
Materials needed for soldering

2Attach the tip

Before you change the tip, make sure your soldering iron is turned off and not plugged in. Grab a small screwdriver and locate the set screw on the side of the soldering iron. Loosen the set screw by turning it counterclockwise. This will allow you to remove the old tip safely.

Next, insert your new tip. Ensure the new tip is compatible with your soldering iron model and insert it firmly into place. Once the new tip is in position, use the screwdriver to tighten it into place.

Insert tip in solder

3Clean the soldering tip

Before plugging in your soldering iron, wipe the tip with a damp sponge to remove oxidation and debris. This improves the soldering iron's performance for precise and reliable solder joints.
Clean the solder tip

4Plug in the soldering iron

To begin using the soldering iron, plug it into a power outlet and turn it on. Ensure the outlet you're using for your soldering iron can handle its voltage safely. (For example, the model pictured operates on 240 volts.)
Plug soldering iron

5Wait for the soldering iron to heat up

Give the soldering iron a few minutes to heat up. Depending on the model you’re operating, there should be an indicator light on the handle that will turn off when it’s ready for use.
Green Bunnings hammer
Tip: Never leave a hot soldering iron unattended!
Hot soldering iron

6Test the soldering iron

It’s always a good idea to test your soldering iron before using it on your project. A hot soldering iron tip should change colour to a shinier silver or emit a slight orange glow. To test your iron, apply a small amount of solder to the tip, whilst ensuring the joint is clean from debris for a good connection. If the solder melts, your tool is ready to go.
Test soldering iron

7Begin soldering

To begin soldering, hold the soldering iron against the material to heat it up. Apply solder at the joint between the material and the iron (not the tip of the iron). Allow the soldering iron to flow onto the material, but don’t put it directly on the iron. This should leave a clean drop of solder on your material, creating a strong bond.
Being soldering

8Allow the soldering iron to cool down

Once you’ve finished your soldering project, place your soldering iron back into its holder or onto a heat-proof surface, turn it off at the plug, and allow it to cool. Set your project aside and allow the solder to set and cool.
Soldering iron to cool down

9Clean the soldering iron

While the iron is still warm, you can clean it by wiping the tip down with a damp sponge or a brass tip cleaner to remove any remaining solder. This will prevent oxidation and keep your soldering iron in good condition.
Clean soldering iron

10Ready to start soldering?

Check out our range of soldering irons online or in-store.
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.