Do you have a painting project at hand but your paint gun keeps spitting? It can be infuriating, especially if you’re new to the game. Don’t panic, and definitely don’t give up just yet. There are a few reasons why this may be happening and some easy solutions.
You might be tempted to think that you’ve just bought a faulty gadget, but a faulty paint gun isn’t always the culprit. The source of the problem could be as simple as your paint being too thick or the paint gun’s nozzle is clogged up. Keep reading to learn about the reasons why your paint gun might be spitting.
The good news is, most of the time, there’s an easy fix to keep your paint gun from spitting. That’s why it’s important to get to the root cause of the problem, so you can solve it without ruining your painting project. You’re about to discover what you need to know to get your paint gun working perfectly, and get back to creating your masterpiece.
How to Troubleshoot a Paint Gun That Is Spitting
Paint guns are a lifesaver when it comes to painting large surfaces in a short amount of time, but when it starts spitting, it can ruin the entire project. There are several reasons why a paint gun may spit, and in this article, we will discuss them and how to troubleshoot them.
- Check the air pressure: One of the common reasons for a paint gun to spit is the air pressure. If the pressure is too high or too low, it can cause the paint to spit out unevenly. It’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications for the air pressure you need to achieve the best results. If the pressure is too low, it could be due to a clog or blockage in the air passage. Clean the air passage and try again.
- Check the nozzle: Another reason for spitting can be a clogged or dirty nozzle. The paint may not spray evenly under these circumstances and cause spitting or splattering. In this case, disassemble the nozzle and clean it thoroughly. This should get rid of any accumulated paint or dirt, which is causing the spitting.
- Check the viscosity of the paint: The viscosity of the paint plays an important role in the paint gun’s performance. If the paint is too thick, it may cause the paint to spit. You can use a viscometer or a viscosity cup that can check the paint’s thickness. If it is too thick, add the recommended thinner to the paint and mix it well until it reaches the desired viscosity level.
Before you begin painting, it’s essential to prepare the gun for painting. This includes checking the air pressure, disassembling the nozzle, and cleaning the gun’s internals. Once all these precautions have been taken, start painting, and if you notice any spitting or splattering, check the air pressure, nozzle, and viscosity level of the paint. Keeping these things in mind will help you troubleshoot and get a perfect finish every time.
Troubleshooting Paint Gun – A Visual Guide
For those who are new to using a paint gun, it can be helpful to have a visual guide on troubleshooting. Check out the table below for a step-by-step guide on how to troubleshoot a paint gun that is spitting:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Spitting | Low air pressure, clogged nozzle, or thick paint | Check air pressure, clean nozzle, and thin paint if necessary |
| Leaking | Loose connection or worn gasket | Check the connections and replace the gasket if necessary |
| Heavy spray pattern | High air pressure or too-thin paint | Reduce the air pressure and thicken paint if necessary |
| Inconsistent spray pattern | Clogged air passages, nozzle, or wrong air pressure | Clean and check the air passages and nozzle, adjust the air pressure |
A visual guide can help you troubleshoot the problem more efficiently. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for more detailed troubleshooting steps.
Common causes for a paint gun to spit paint
If you’re using a paint gun, it’s common to experience paint spitting at some point. Spitting occurs when the gun sputters out blobs of paint during the spraying process, leading to an uneven and messy paint job. Here are some common causes of paint gun spitting and how to avoid them.
Nozzle size
- The size of your paint gun nozzle can cause spitting if it’s not appropriate for the paint you’re using. If the nozzle is too small, it can clog easily, causing paint spitting. If it’s too large, it can result in a surplus of paint that can’t atomize, causing splatters and drips.
- To ensure that the paint gun is performing optimally, match the nozzle size appropriately with the type of paint being used. Most paint gun manufacturers provide a chart that lists appropriate nozzle sizes for different types of paint.
Air pressure
The air pressure that runs the paint gun needs to be properly adjusted. Improperly adjusting the air pressure can cause paint gun spitting. If the air pressure is too high, it can cause the paint to atomize before it even hits the surface, resulting in a splattering effect. If the air pressure is too low, it can cause the paint to dribble out of the gun unatomized, creating unsightly drips.
To optimize air pressure, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and conduct a test spray on scrap material before commencing your painting. Adjust the air pressure in increments until you get the right amount of atomization.
Viscosity
The viscosity, or thickness, of your paint can affect the paint gun’s performance. If the paint is too thick, it can cause spitting. A paint that is too thin can result in drips and runs on your painted surface.
| Viscosity Level | What it means | How to fix it |
|---|---|---|
| High Viscosity | The paint is too thick | Add thinners or solvents according to the manufacturer’s guidance |
| Low Viscosity | The paint is too thin | Add a thicker or heavier bodied additive, or mix with thicker paint as instructed by the manufacturer |
Ensuring that your paint’s viscosity is suitable for the paint gun will help to minimize spitting and create a smoother finish on painted surfaces.
DIY Solutions for a Paint Gun That Is Spitting
There are few things more frustrating than a paint gun that’s spitting. Not only does spit mess up your paint job, but it can also cause damage to the nozzle over time. Fortunately, there are several DIY solutions that you can try before calling in the big guns.
- Clean the Nozzle – Chances are, if your paint gun is spitting, there’s some debris or buildup stuck in the nozzle. Remove the nozzle and clean it thoroughly with a solvent or cleaning solution. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush or a pipe cleaner to get into the small crevices and remove any gunk.
- Adjust the Air Pressure – If the air pressure is too low, the paint may not atomize properly, causing it to spit. On the other hand, too much air pressure can cause paint to come out too quickly. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended air pressure settings for your specific paint gun and adjust accordingly.
- Thin the Paint – If your paint is too thick, it may not flow through the nozzle smoothly, causing it to spit. Try thinning the paint with a compatible thinner or reducer. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach the desired consistency.
If none of these DIY solutions work, it may be time to take your paint gun to a professional for repair or maintenance. Remember, regular cleaning and maintenance can prevent paint gun spitting in the first place, so be sure to keep your equipment in top condition.
Can a clogged paint gun cause spitting?
One of the most common causes of spitting paint from a paint gun is a clog in the tip of the gun. When the tip becomes clogged with dried paint or other debris, it can cause the paint to spray unevenly or spit out in a messy pattern. This is often an issue with older or poorly maintained spray guns.
- To prevent clogs, be sure to clean your spray gun thoroughly after every use.
- Use proper cleaning solvents to remove all traces of paint and debris.
- Inspect the tip of the gun regularly for signs of buildup or damage.
In addition to cleaning and maintenance, using the right type of paint for your gun can help prevent clogs. Thicker paints or those with a high solids content can be more prone to clogs than thinner paints, so be sure to choose the right paint for the job.
If you suspect that a clogged tip is causing your paint gun to spit, remove the tip, and clean it thoroughly. In some cases, you may also need to replace the tip altogether if it is damaged or worn beyond repair. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent clogs and ensure that your spray gun works smoothly and efficiently every time you use it.
| Tip | Cause of clog |
|---|---|
| Narrow tip | Debris or dried paint buildup in tip |
| Worn tip | Excessive use or damage to tip |
| Dirty tip | Improper cleaning or maintenance |
By taking the time to properly care for and maintain your paint gun, you can avoid many common issues like spitting paint and uneven spray patterns. Invest in high-quality cleaning solvents, and inspect your gun regularly to catch any issues before they become major problems. With a little effort and attention, you can keep your paint gun in top condition for years to come.
How to prevent a paint gun from spitting
One of the most frustrating things that can happen during a painting project is when your spray gun starts spitting. Not only does it make your work look uneven and unprofessional, but it can also cause damage to your equipment. Here are some tips to prevent your paint gun from spitting:
- Use the right tip – Make sure that you are using the correct size tip for the type of paint you are using. Using a tip that is too small can cause the gun to spit.
- Thin your paint – If your paint is too thick, it can cause the gun to spit. Make sure to thin your paint according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Clean your gun – It’s important to clean your spray gun regularly to prevent buildup that can cause spitting. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning.
In addition to these tips, there are also some techniques you can use to prevent spitting:
- Hold the gun at the correct angle – Holding the gun too close or too far from the surface, or at the wrong angle, can cause spitting. Make sure to hold the gun at the recommended distance and angle for the best results.
- Use the right pressure – The pressure you use can also affect the way your gun sprays. Make sure to use the recommended pressure for your paint and gun.
- Practice – Like any skill, using a spray gun takes practice. Spend some time practicing on scrap materials to get a feel for the gun before starting your project.
Common causes of spitting
It’s also helpful to understand the common causes of spitting so you can troubleshoot the issue:
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Tip too small | Use a larger tip |
| Paint too thick | Thin the paint |
| Dirt or debris in gun | Clean the gun |
| Pressure too high | Lower the pressure |
By understanding the causes of spitting and taking the proper preventative measures, you can ensure a smooth and successful painting project.
What to do if your paint gun keeps spitting even after cleaning
It can be frustrating when your paint gun is spitting paint all over the place, even after you have cleaned it. Here are some steps you can take to fix the issue:
- Check the air pressure: A paint gun will spit if the air pressure is too low or too high. Make sure to check the air pressure and adjust it to the recommended setting for your gun.
- Check for clogs: If there are any clogs in the paint gun, it can cause spitting. Use a cleaning solution to flush out any clogs in the gun.
- Check the fluid tip: If your fluid tip is damaged or worn out, it can cause spitting. Inspect the tip and replace it if necessary.
If these steps do not fix the issue, then it may be time to take your paint gun to a professional for a closer look. There could be underlying issues that are causing the spitting that require a more advanced repair.
The table below outlines some common causes of spitting and what steps you can take to fix them:
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Air pressure too low | Adjust the air pressure to the recommended setting for your gun. |
| Air pressure too high | Adjust the air pressure to the recommended setting for your gun. |
| Clogs in the gun | Use a cleaning solution to flush out any clogs in the gun. |
| Fluid tip damaged or worn out | Inspect the tip and replace it if necessary. |
Hopefully, these steps will help fix the issue of your paint gun spitting. Keeping your gun clean and well-maintained will also go a long way in ensuring it works properly for years to come.
When to take your paint gun to a professional for servicing
Paint guns are the backbone of any painting project, but they can be temperamental machines. It is essential to know when to take your paint gun to a professional for servicing to avoid any long-term damage or malfunctions. Here are some instances when you should consider seeking a professional’s help:
- When your paint gun is spitting: If your paint gun is spitting paint, it’s a clear indication that something’s wrong. A clogged or worn-out nozzle could be causing this problem, and a professional could clean or replace it for you.
- When the paint gun’s pressure is fluctuating: A fluctuation in pressure could be due to a worn-out seal, a loose hose connection, or debris in the gun’s system. A professional can easily identify the problem and carry out the necessary repairs.
- When the paint gun is leaking: A leaking paint gun could be a sign of internal damage or a loose seal. Either way, it’s not something that an amateur should try to fix. A professional will identify the cause of the leak and fix it so that you don’t have to worry about it becoming a bigger problem in the future.
If you notice any of these issues or something similar, it’s best to stop using your paint gun and take it to a professional for repair. Trying to fix these issues on your own could lead to further damage to the paint gun or even injury to yourself.
However, it’s not only malfunctions that require professional servicing. Regular maintenance can also help prevent any problems from arising. Consider taking your paint gun for servicing every year or after any extended use. A professional can clean and tune up the gun to ensure it performs at its best.
| Signs that your paint gun needs servicing: |
|---|
| Paint gun is spitting paint |
| Paint gun’s pressure is fluctuating |
| Paint gun is leaking paint |
| Paint gun is not spraying consistently |
Taking care of your paint gun is essential to keeping it operating at its peak performance and extending its life. Know when to call in the professionals and consider regular preventative maintenance to keep your paint gun in excellent condition.
Why Is My Paint Gun Spitting FAQs
1. What causes my paint gun to spit out paint?
A common cause of paint gun spitting is a clogged tip or nozzle. It could also be caused by inconsistent air pressure or paint thickness.
2. How do I fix a paint gun that is spitting out paint?
Start by checking the tip and nozzle for any clogs or debris. Clean them out if necessary. Next, adjust the air pressure and paint thickness to ensure consistency.
3. Can using low-quality paint cause my gun to spit?
Yes, using paint with low quality or dirty paint can cause the gun to spit. Always check the quality of paint before using it in your gun and make sure it is clean.
4. Is it dangerous for my paint gun to spit?
There is no immediate danger in using a paint gun that spits, but it can lead to poor-quality paint jobs and wasted paint. It is important to fix the issue to avoid any further problems.
5. How can I prevent my paint gun from spitting in the future?
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your paint gun can help prevent it from spitting. Always check and clean the tip and nozzle, and use the proper paint consistency.
6. Can using the wrong air pressure cause spitting?
Yes, using inconsistent or incorrect air pressure can cause spitting in your spray gun. Always consult your user manual for the recommended air pressure.
7. Should I dispose of my paint gun if it keeps spitting?
No, it is not necessary to dispose of a paint gun that is spitting. In most cases, it can be fixed with proper cleaning and maintenance.
Closing: Thanks for Taking the Time to Learn About Paint Gun Spitting
Thank you for taking the time to read this article about why paint guns spit. We hope you found it informative and useful in understanding how to fix and prevent your paint gun from spitting in the future. Remember to always check for clogs, use quality paint, and maintain your paint gun regularly. Visit again soon for more helpful tips and advice!