An electric airless paint sprayer is a powerful tool that can help you paint large surfaces fast and efficiently. With an airless paint sprayer, you can achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish without the hassles of dealing with compressors, hoses, and complex setups. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of using an electric airless paint sprayer, from selecting the right model to proper spraying techniques. Follow these tips and techniques, and you’ll be able to handle your next painting project with speed and ease using an electric airless paint sprayer.

Choosing the Right Electric Airless Paint Sprayer

When selecting an electric airless paint sprayer, there are several factors to consider:

Spray Tip Size

The spray tip size determines the size of the paint fan that is discharged. Larger tip sizes (e.g. 0.021-0.031″) are good for broad wall surfaces, while smaller tips (0.011-0.015″) are ideal for spraying cabinets, trims, and detailed areas. Select a model that allows you to switch between different sized tips.

Horsepower/PSI

Higher horsepower motors and PSI outputs allow sprayers to handle thicker paints and coat surfaces faster. Light-duty models with lower PSIs (1500 or less) are suitable for interior walls, while more rugged models with 0.5 hp or more can spray unthinned latex and handle exterior jobs.

Weight and Portability

If you’ll be moving around a lot, opt for a lighter model (under 20 lbs) with a carrying handle. Stationary models over 30 lbs are fine for interior rooms or exterior areas with vehicle access.

Hose Length

Standard hose lengths are 25-50 feet. Go for 100-300 foot hoses if you’ll be covering larger areas and need extended reach. Retractable hose reels can help manage longer hoses.

Onboard Storage

Models with holders and baskets allow you to conveniently store spray tips, filters, and painting accessories with the unit. This helps keep all your painting supplies organized.

Warranty Coverage

Airless sprayers are an investment, so look for units with at least 1-2 years of warranty coverage. This protects against defects and undue wear over time.

Set Up and Use Safety Precautions

Before starting any paint spraying project, proper set up and safety precautions are a must:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wear protective eyewear, masks, gloves, and clothing to shield against paint mist. Select tight-fitting, disposable respirators that are NIOSH certified for oil-based particles.

Ventilation

Outdoors is ideal. Indoors, open windows and use fans to ensure good airflow and ventilation.

Drop Cloths

Cover floors, furniture, and any other surfaces that shouldn’t get painted. Use painter’s tape for clean lines around trim.

Secure Tip Guard and Hoses

Make sure the tip guard is firmly locked in place to prevent accidental spraying. Secure hoses neatly without kinks using tape or hooks.

Keep Children/Pets Away

Don’t allow children or pets access since sprayers have high pressure and involve chemicals.

Power Supply

Plug your electric sprayer into a GFCI outlet, and use an extension cord if needed (12-16 gauge for 50 ft or less). Don’t overload circuits.

Check Sprayer Settings

Refer to your model’s manual for recommended PSI, tip sizes, and settings based on your paint viscosity and spraying needs.

Prepare the Paint Properly

Preparing the paint is a critical step before you begin spraying:

Stir the Paint

Always stir paint thoroughly before pouring it into the sprayer’s paint cup to ensure even consistency.

Check Viscosity

The paint should be thin enough to easily flow through the sprayer – about the consistency of 2% milk. Check the manual for viscosity guidelines.

Thinning Paint

If needed, thin latex paint with water, and oil-based paints with the recommended solvent. Thin in small increments until optimal consistency is achieved.

Strain the Paint

Pour paint through a paint strainer or nylon stocking to remove any lumps or debris that could clog the sprayer.

Prime and Clean the Sprayer

Priming and cleaning the sprayer properly will help prevent clogs and ensure a smooth spray flow:

Prime with Water or Solvent

On first use, prime the sprayer by running water, mineral spirits, or the appropriate solvent through it. This lubricates the components.

Clean Between Coats

Flush water or solvent through the sprayer between coats to remove residue buildup and keep it spraying evenly.

Clean Thoroughly Afterwards

Follow all cleaning instructions. Thoroughly flush out paint, clean the tip, and store properly after finishing.

Test Spray on Cardboard

Always test spray on cardboard before starting your project. This allows you to:

Check for clogs or spraying problems
Get a feel for the sprayer settings and make adjustments
Test spray patterns and technique
Dial in the proper distance and speed for an even coating

Make any needed adjustments before beginning actual spraying.

Maintain Proper Distance and Speed

Maintaining the ideal distance and speed when spraying is crucial:

Distance

Hold sprayer nozzle 6-12 inches from the surface. Get too close and the paint will glob and run. Too far away causes excessive overspray.

Keep Sprayer Moving

Move at a steady, even pace parallel to the surface. Going too fast or slow leads to uneven coats and dripping paint.

Maintain Perpendicular Angle

Holding the sprayer at a consistent and slightly perpendicular angle to the surface will give the best coverage.

Overlap Strokes

Overlap each stroke 50% to ensure consistent coverage with no gaps or stripes in the finish.

Employ Proper Spraying Technique

Using proper technique will give professional quality results:

Hold Nozzle Straight & Steady

Grip sprayer firmly with both hands and keep nozzle square to the surface to prevent wavy paint lines.

Start Spraying Off the Surface

Trigger the sprayer just before reaching the surface. Release pressure off the surface at end of each stroke.

Apply Light Even Coats

Applying several light coats allows paint to fully adhere and prevents drips, sags, and runs.

Work Top to Bottom

Spray from the top down when coating walls to avoid drips. For smaller objects, circle around them.

Get Into Corners

Angle sprayer to adequately coat interior corners and crevices. Follow with a brush if needed.

Watch for Sags on Vertical Surfaces

On sidings, walls, etc go lightly to prevent paint from sagging due to gravity.

Spray Different Surfaces Properly

You’ll need to adjust technique when spraying different materials and situations:

Drywall

Use a 0.015-0.019” tip. Keep 12” away and overlap strokes. Two coats is ideal for smooth finish.

Wood Siding

Apply long, even strokes from an 8” distance. Backbrush for maximum wood grain adhesion.

Decks & Fences

Use rounded motion to coat spindles. Check weather forecast first – no rain for 48 hours after applying.

Cabinets

Remove doors and hardware. Use small tip for fine finish on frames, doors. Angle spray to coat insides.

Interior Trim & Doors

Lightly spray using smaller tips from a closer 6” distance. Be cautious of overspray.

Brick & Stucco

Hold sprayer at slight upward angle to get into grooves. Take extra care with overspray.

Clean Up Properly Afterwards

Never leave a sprayer filled with paint. Proper cleanup is essential:

Spray Out Remaining Paint

Trigger sprayer over cardboard or disposable surface to drain out remaining paint in hose.

Rinse Thoroughly

Flush with water or solvent until liquid runs clear. Refer to manual for cleaning instructions.

Unclog Tips

Use a toothpick if needed to clear clogged tip openings after cleaning.

Wipe Down

Wipe exterior with a damp cloth. Clean any paint out of air vents if needed.

Store Properly

Coil hose neatly and ensure no moisture is left in hose or sprayer before storage.

Following this comprehensive guide will give you the knowledge needed to properly set up, use, and maintain an electric airless paint sprayer. Pay close attention to the preparation, priming, spraying techniques, and cleanup steps outlined here in order to get professional quality results on all your painting projects. With practice and these tips, you’ll be able to paint with speed, efficiency and an even high quality finish using your electric airless sprayer.

FAQs About Using Electric Airless Paint Sprayers

What PSI do I need for airless spraying?

Most airless paint sprayers operate at a PSI between 1500 to 3000. Lighter duty indoor models run around 1500-2200 PSI, while more powerful outdoor units go up to 3000 PSI. Match the PSI to the viscosity and type of paint you’re spraying.

How do I know what size sprayer tip to use?

Larger tips of .025” and up are good for broad exterior walls and ceilings. Smaller .015”-.019” tips allow more control for trim, cabinets, and detailed areas. Adjust tip size based on the surface and type of paint.

What causes clogs and how can I prevent them?

Failure to properly strain paint, inadequate cleaning between coats, dried paint residue, and cheap paint can all cause tip clogs. Prevent this by thoroughly straining paint, flushing with solvents regularly, and using quality paint.

How do I get an even coat and avoid drips and runs?

Applying multiple light coats instead of a single thick coat will give a smooth finish without drips. Maintain the right spraying speed, distance and overlap your strokes properly.

Can I spray oil and latex paint with the same sprayer?

Yes, most airless sprayers can handle both oil and latex-based paints. Completely flush the system with the appropriate solvent between each type of paint to prevent contamination issues.

How do I avoid paint blowing back at me when spraying?

Blowback is caused by spraying at an angle instead of straight on, holding the tip too close, or applying too much paint. Hold the sprayer perpendicular to the surface at the proper distance to prevent blowback.

When should I backbrush after airless spraying?

Backbrushing after spraying is useful on surfaces like wood, concrete, masonry to work paint into the porous material. It minimizes drips and gets paint into grooves. Use a natural bristle brush in vertical strokes.

How do I clean an airless sprayer after using it?

Follow all manufacturer cleaning guidelines. Flush paint out with solvent, remove tips/filters and clean thoroughly. Never leave an airless sprayer filled with paint – clean it immediately after finishing a job.

Conclusion

Electric airless paint sprayers allow DIY-ers and professionals to apply paint quickly and efficiently. To get the best results from an airless sprayer, choose an appropriate model with the right power and features for your needs. Always take safety precautions like wearing protective equipment. Properly prepare paint and prime the sprayer before starting. Employ the right spraying techniques for each type of surface. And never forget to thoroughly clean the sprayer when finished according to the manufacturer’s directions. With this guide’s tips for setup, use, troubleshooting, and maintenance, you can become an expert at using electric airless paint sprayers to achieve flawless, professional-looking paint jobs.

How to Use an Electric Airless Paint Sprayer: Overview

An electric airless paint sprayer is able to quickly and evenly spray paint, stains, and coatings without the need for air compression. Here’s an overview of how to properly operate an electric airless sprayer for best results:

Advantages of Airless Sprayers

Smooth, seamless finish with no brush marks
Fast coverage of large areas and broad surfaces like siding
Applies thick and heavy coatings that rollers can’t handle
Able to spray unthinned paints and stains
Adjustable spray tips for control over spray patterns
Portable electric models allow spraying anywhere

How Airless Sprayers Work

An electric motor powers a pump piston that draws up paint and pushes it out at high pressure
Paint moves through the hose to the spray nozzle to atomize and fan out the paint
Sprayer tips determine the size of the paint fan pattern
High pressure of 1500-3000 PSI allows spraying unthinned paint over 15 ft
Constant flow of paint minimizes clogs compared to air sprayers

Setup and Use Steps

Select suitable spray tip size and prepare paint properly
Strain paint and thin if needed for proper consistency
Prime sprayer pump by running solvent through
Adjust pressure for paint viscosity and job
Test spray on cardboard first and adjust as needed
Maintain steady speed and proper spraying distance
Use overlapping strokes and proper spray motions
Clean sprayer thoroughly after use by flushing with solvent

Following these basics will allow you to use an electric airless sprayer successfully for all your painting projects. Make sure to follow all preparation, priming, application, and cleanup best practices.

Selecting an Electric Airless Paint Sprayer

Choosing the right electric airless paint sprayer for your needs is an important first step. Consider the following key factors when selecting a model:

Spray Tip Sizes

Size determines the width of the paint fan pattern
Larger tips (.021-.035″) work well for broad exterior surfaces
Smaller tips (.011-.019″) are better for detailed work
Look for sprayers that allow you to swap different sized tips

Horsepower & PSI Output

More power allows for thicker coatings and less thinning
Light duty models offer 1500-2200 PSI for indoor use
Heavy duty models go up to 3000 PSI for heavy outdoor paints

Weight and Portability

Stationary models over 30 lbs for interior rooms or fixed outdoor spots
Lightweight models under 20 lbs have carrying handles for ladders/scaffolding

Hose Length and Maneuverability

Standard hoses lengths are 25-50 feet
100-300 foot hoses provide extended reach for exterior jobs
Retractable hose reels make maneuvering easier

Onboard Storage

Models with holders or baskets allow you to store spray tips, filters, and accessories
Keeps all painting supplies together for convenience

Warranty Coverage

Opt for units with 1-2 years of coverage against defects
Protects your investment in the spray equipment

Selecting a sprayer with appropriate power and features will ensure it can handle your specific painting jobs.

Preparing Paint for an Airless Sprayer

To prevent clogging and spraying issues, properly prepare paint before pouring it into an airless sprayer. Follow these steps:

Fully Stir the Paint

Thoroughly mix paint beforehand to achieve uniform consistency
Stir periodically if spraying over extended time

Check and Adjust Paint Viscosity

Paint should be thin enough to flow through sprayer with minimal resistance
Consistency should be like 2% milk
If too thick, thin with water (latex) or solvents (oil-based)

Strain the Paint Through a Filter

Use a paint strainer bag or nylon stocking over a bucket
Catches debris and clumps that could clog sprayer
Helps ensure smooth flow through sprayer

Consider Using Paint Conditioners

Additives help paint flow easily for spraying while retaining hide and coverage
Useful for lower quality paints prone to surfactant leaching
Follow conditioner directions to prevent over-thinning paint

Taking these simple steps will properly prepare paint for an easy, clog-free spraying experience. Don’t rush the preparation!

Priming and Cleaning the Airless Sprayer

Priming and properly cleaning the airless sprayer is key to preventing issues with clogging, viscosity, and spray quality.

Priming the Sprayer Before First Use

Run water, mineral spirits, or solvent through new sprayer before painting
Lubricates internal parts and prevents paint drying
Consult manual for recommended priming fluid

Cleaning Between Coats

Flush water for latex, solvents for oil-based paints
Keeps sprayer free of dried paint bits
Allows paint to flow smoothly and evenly

Cleaning After Use

Follow all manufacturer recommended cleaning steps
Flush paint out with solvent until liquid runs clear
Use toothpicks to clear clogged tip openings
Never leave sprayer filled with paint!

Proper priming and cleaning will optimize your airless sprayer’s performance and extend its life. Don’t skip these critical maintenance steps.

Setting Up an Airless Sprayer Safely

Safety should always be the top priority when setting up and operating an airless paint sprayer:

Choose a Large, Ventilated Area

Spray outdoors or in a garage with doors open if possible
Ensure good airflow to prevent buildup of flammable fumes

Cover Surfaces and Furniture

Use drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect floors and objects
Use painter’s tape to mask off areas around trim

Wear Protective Equipment

Wear a respiratory mask or respirator, goggles, gloves, long sleeves
Prevents inhalation and skin exposure to paint

Secure Hoses Neatly

Ensure sprayer hose doesn’t become a tripping hazard
Use tape, hooks, or ties to keep hose tidy