How to maintain and winterize your airless paint sprayer
For any drywall contractor, a paint sprayer is a major investment that will ideally provide top-tier performance long enough to deliver significant returns. There are a number of factors that can decrease the lifespan of a sprayer, but none more avoidable than failing to perform proper maintenance and care.
Regularly maintaining your sprayer will preserve its condition for longer, keep its performance and efficiency levels high, and produce overall better work from project to project. Here are some tips to help you effectively maintain your airless paint sprayer and winterize it when the time comes.
Keep your filters clean
The filter screen on the sprayer may need cleaning between paint bucket changes. To do so, use a soft bristle brush to remove debris from the screen. Your spray gun also has a filter to keep debris from entering the tip of the gun. Keep this clean as well once you notice your spray patterns becoming distorted.
Use proper fluids when storing
If you’re going to be storing your sprayer for longer than a couple days, don’t leave water inside the pump. Many of the machine’s components are made of steel and other metals and can rust if stored in contact with water for extended periods.
If the water freezes in the pump during storage it can also ruin it beyond repair. Use manufacturer-recommended fluids when storing to prevent these issues and ensure your sprayer is in great shape when you begin your next project.
Keep paint off the motor
Make sure to keep your sprayer’s motor clear of paint and clean off any splatters that occur. Any paint that collects on the surface will act as an insulating blanket and can cause the sprayer to overheat. You can use a motor cover during operation to both keep the engine cool and to protect it from any paint or other residue that may come into contact with it.
Strain your paint
Straining paint helps prevent debris from clogging your spray tips and damaging equipment. To do so, pour paint through a strainer into another bucket before entering it into your spray system.
Take care of your valves
The inlet valve should be oiled after every use, which apart from keeping your sprayer in good working condition will also help with priming. You should also thoroughly clean the valve assembly with a small bristle brush and water.
If after you’ve cleaned the valves your sprayer is still dripping, it may be time to replace the valves altogether.
Airless paint sprayer winterizing tips
Preparing your sprayer to make it through the winter months is essential to preserving its condition and making sure it’s ready to go when you need it.
Run Mineral Spirits through the system
Doing this after cleaning is the best protection against freezing during the winter. Mineral Spirits don’t freeze and also protect the system against corrosion and help keep the pump lubricated.
Don’t store under pressure
Storing your sprayer under pressure may cause over-pressurization and is a general safety hazard. Make sure to leave the prime/spray bypass valve in the priming position to steer clear of this issue.
Note: If the fluid section does freeze during storage, make sure you allow it to thaw fully before operating the sprayer to avoid any further damage that may occur.
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