Tips For Using A Paint Sprayer

When it comes to painting, not all tools are created equally. While using a paintbrush for smaller projects may give you better control while applying paint, a paint sprayer is a real time-saver when it comes to larger areas or projects. When it comes to using a sprayer, however, it’s important to know how to operate and clean it correctly. Here are some tips for using paint sprayers.

Store Your Sprayer With Proper Fluids

If you aren’t going to be using your sprayer for a while, do not store it with water in it. This can lead to your paint sprayer rusting. If your sprayer were to freeze with water in it, expansion of that water into ice can ruin the expensive electronics in your sprayer, causing it to need repair or replacing. Always look for the manufacturer’s recommended storing fluid in your manual.

Keep Pump Fluid Section Seals Moist

The right pump fluid will make sure that your equipment continues to run smoothly and efficiently. If you are using your equipment heavily, the daily application of pump fluid will be needed to make sure the seals stay moist. Throat Seal Liquid (TSL) is recommended for graco pumps, while pump lubricant is best for other brands. Again, always make sure to check the manual for the recommendations.

Mix Your Paint Well

To avoid clogging, make sure to mix your paint well before you put it into the container that attaches to your sprayer. This will keep the paint flowing smoothly and help you avoid having to stop during the middle of your project to thin out lumps. Taking a few minutes to mix your paint properly before you start will save you time in the long run.

Move Your Whole Arm When Spraying

If you fan the gun while using your sprayer, it can create an uneven finish. In order to get the most even finish possible, move your entire arm with the spray gun while you are painting. Flex your wrist a bit at the start and finish of each stroke instead of fanning with the sprayer. It’s recommended to hold the gun about a foot away from the surface while you are spraying. always try to maintain the same distance while spraying.

Utilize these tips the next time you have a project coming up that requires you to use a spray painter. With a little practice, you can save a lot of time and effort by using a paint sprayer instead of a paintbrush or even spray paint.