Learn How to Test HVAC Relay with Multimeter

Contrary to integrated circuits, the relays are discrete devices that give low-power logic signals a control over the higher power circuits. Sometimes, a relay will isolate the high power circuit and therefore assist in protecting the lower power circuit through providing the logic circuit with a small electromagnetic coil to control.

How are these relays tested on HVAC systems? Can it be done with a multimeter?  Do I need any special knowledge to do so? If you’re looking for answers to these questions, read on – we’re here to help you out.

Starting Out

• The first thing you’ll have to do is to consult the relay schematic sheet. Most relays feature standard pin configurations, but checking out the schematic and finding out about the number of pins is always the best idea. In most cases, these will be printed on the relay itself.
• Information on pin configurations, voltage rating, current rating, and other info can be invaluable in testing, as it can easily eliminate the majority of errors that come with it. Of course, random testing without actually knowing anything about the pin configuration is entirely possible – however, with a damaged relay, the results can be quite unpredictable.
• Making a basic visual inspection should be your next step. Many models feature clear plastic shells that contain the contacts and the coil. Finding out visible damage, such as blackening or melting, can significantly help with narrowing down the problem.
• Luckily, most modern relays feature LED lights that tell the user if they’re in an active state. If this light isn’t working and you’ve got control voltage to the coil terminals or the relay, it’s pretty safe to conclude that the relay is bad.
• It goes without saying, but all electrical work should always be done only after the power sources have been disconnected, and this includes line voltage and batteries. One thing to be especially mindful of is the capacitors in the circuit – these are capable of holding the charge for quite some time after you’ve removed the power source.
• Another thing to consider here is checking the local laws before attempting to do any electrical work. In case you’re feeling unsafe, it’s best to leave this job to a professional.

Testing a Coil Relay

• When testing a coil relay, make sure first to determine its coil requirements. Check out the manufacturer’s part number (listed on the case) and then take a look at the relevant datasheet and find out about the current and voltage requirements of the coil. Some relays will have this information printed on their cases, especially the larger models.
• The next thing you need to do is to find out about the control coil’s diode-protection. Some models will have diodes around the poles in order to safeguard the logic circuitry from the damage that occurs due to noise spikes. On drawings, these diodes are shown as triangles with bars across their corners. This bar will be connected to the positive connection, or the input, of the control coil.
• Next, you need to assess the relay’s configuration. As we said, this info can be found either on the case of the relay or on the manufacturer’s datasheet. Most models have one or more poles, and these are indicated by drawings with a single line switch that is connected to one of the relay’s pins.
• Each of the poles might have a NO (normally open) or an NC (normally closed) contact, and these will be indicated on the drawings. The drawings should show each pole as either touching (NC) or not touching (NO) the pin.
• The next step includes using a multimeter – you’ll have to test the de-energized condition of the contacts on the relay. Use the DMM (digital multimeter) to examine the resistance between the poles and their NO and NC contacts. All of the NO contacts should show infinite resistance and all NC contacts should show 0 ohms.
• Electrify the relay by using an independent voltage source which is suitable for the rating of the coils. Expect to hear a clicking sound when the relay is energized.
• Now that the relay is energized, you’ll be able to check the energized condition of its contacts. Take the multimeter and once again test the resistance between the poles and the NO and NC contacts. The NO contacts should read 0 ohms and the NC ones should read infinite resistance.

Testing a Solid-State Relay

• When testing a solid-state relay, one has first to use an ohmmeter and check the relay across the NO (normally open) terminals once the control power is not working.
• Next, take a digital multimeter (DMM) and confirm the findings by using the device in its diode-test mode. The DMM will apply a tiny amount of voltage in order to make the semiconductor conduct, allowing you to read the voltage on display. In case the relay is bad, your multimeter will read OL or 0, and if it’s good, it’ll read 0.5 for a germanium transistor and 0.7 for a silicon transistor. The silicone transistors are a lot more common than the germanium ones.
• Most of the solid-state relays are quite cheap to replace and very easy to troubleshoot. However, they can last a long time when they’re kept cool. Typically, most models arrive in blocking mounts and DIN rail packages.
• One thing worth mentioning here is that there are also special relays called SCRs that are used for exquisite process temperature control. They come in two flavors – for IR lamps/ovens and for heating wires. In simple terms, these are fast switches on much faster switches that are capable of turning on and off, and they often fail because of the temperature fluctuations.

Even though it might sound complicated at first, testing an HVAC relay with a multimeter is actually an incredibly easy thing to do. By following the above-mentioned steps, you will quickly get the hang of the process and will be able to apply this knowledge in the future. Good luck!

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HVAC Repair Guide For Beginners

Every household should be aware of their devices, appliances, and systems. HVAC is an acronym that stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It has to do with providing comfort based on altering the temperature and air. Here what you need to know about HVAC.

 

HVAC is Part of Everyday Life

HVAC is an essential part of every household. It is present in all buildings therefore in all homes and businesses. It has to be up kept and regulated to function correctly. If it is not seen to, HVAC can cause health issues and overall damages to its residents and the building.

How to Detect a Problem

At first, you might be able to discern the problems yourself. For example, the AC is on, and it is working, but there’s no cool air coming out. In some cases, there can be cooling but only slightly. This is also a problem since the AC will be spending electricity without actually lowering the temperature efficiently.

How to Approach a Problem

Sometimes you HVAC will need repair or complete replacement. In both cases, you will need to overlook how your HVAC systems are functioning. It is not always easy to know when it’s the right time to act on a particular issue. One of the best methods of following your HVAC system is to get a multimeter (you can check our top rated picks here). This device allows you to get useful information about your indoor devices.

Start by checking the outside unit, also known as, the condensing unit. The fan should be running, and there should be a distinct and familiar noise which follows it. If everything seems to function, you should move on to another part.

With heating systems, you need to find follow every component of the system in the building. For example, keep track of the fuel source or the water source. Take into consideration that there might be an issue with these sources, pipes, or the fuel tank.

If you are going to take the machine apart, remember always to turn everything off. Electricity is unpredictable and dangerous. It can be fatal and cause severe damage to your house or building.

Get to Know Your Heating System

Boilers and furnaces can be tricky business since their elements can run through the building. Nevertheless, you can ask the landlord to check or hire an expert and look into it properly. If the problem is minor, you and your landlord will be able to fix it. If not, don’t hesitate to call a professional.

Get to Know Your AC System

It is stressful to think about how to repair the HVAC unit on your own. First of all, you need to know the machine, appliance or device itself. Being familiar with specific parts of the apparatus can be helpful. This method can bring you closer to understanding and towards solving the problem. Often enough, damage in one part of the HVAC device will result in complete dysfunction. Before you call a handyman, try to find out if it is something you can repair on your own. Also, try detecting if it is a replaceable part. In some cases, you can just buy a new element, and the system will work like a charm. At other times, the best solution is to buy an entirely new HVAC device.

Knowing the Insides of the Air Conditioner

ACs have two main parts. One is the condensing unit which is typically placed outside. The other is the evaporator coil which is inside. The two parts are codependent. The evaporator coil takes up the heat and transfers it to the outer part, the condensing unit. The condensing unit gets rid of the heat. The condensing unit consists of three main components: the contractor, the capacitor, and the condenser fan motor.

Extra tip: Sometimes it is cheaper to do your maintenance. Replacing a part you are familiar with will cost you three times less than hiring a maintenance expert. That is why it might be helpful to get to know your AC and its parts.

Important Factors

Some features of your HVAC system will have to be taken into consideration. You need to pay attention to the size, the age, purpose, and efficiency of your HVAC system.

Usually, the HVAC system will last you between a decade and two decades. Its longevity will depend on the remaining factors.

Take into consideration the size of the machine and the size of the area it’s cooling down. If the environment the AC is working with is large this needs to be factored in its overall age. This can influence possible damages and potential repairs.

An HVAC system is usually as efficient as much as it was paid for. It doesn’t mean that an expensive AC will never break down. It merely means that there’s less of a chance for it to break if properly maintained.

Maintenance is Crucial

A highly efficient HVAC system without maintenance will not last a long time. Air conditioning systems are dependent on getting servicing from time to time. All parts must be functional for it to work correctly. Their functionality should be checked every once in a while. It is a crucial part of preventing your AC from breaking.

Extra Tip: If you AC breaks down now and then, despite the regular maintenance consider replacing it. Sometimes it is cheaper to buy a new high-quality AC than to repair the old one several times. Do the math and see for yourself.

Don’t Think Twice

Whenever you have an option to address a problem with your AC, do not hesitate. Whether you can replace a part yourself, call a professional, or install a new one – do it as soon as possible. The main reason you get AC installed in the first place is to make your home or office more comfortable. You invest in a better quality of life, and you deserve to maintain it. What is more, with these issues the longer you wait, the worse it will get.

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5 Essential Tools For HVAC Repair

HVAC repair can be difficult if you lack the right tools. Luckily for you, we have prepared a small list of essentials. These tools are useful for both professionals and household handymen. Here is our list of tools.

1. Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers are essential tools for any sort of repair and every handyman has them. It is best to invest in a high-quality set of screwdrivers as they will be used a lot in the long run. They should vary in size and types of tips. Quality screwdrivers can last you a lifetime and will serve a better purpose. The shabby ones can damage your devices and cause more problems than you’d want. If you really want to get into repairing get a set of screwdrivers with magnetic tips. They will help you reach difficult areas without needing to intervene manually. They can keep small metal parts in place.

2. Pliers

Pliers are one of the most useful HVAC repair tools. When you buy pliers, make sure you know their quality. They need to have a good grip and possible variations to the grip. They should be able to twist, bend, and cut through without difficulty.

Some heating and cooling devices can have parts which are not easy to handle or reach. This is why all of your tools, and especially you pliers, should be of high quality. What is more, you might be in contact with wet areas which is why it is advisable to find pliers which are resistant to corrosion and rusting. If you’re not able to find pliers made of such material, just remember to clean them after every use.

When you use the pliers make sure you know how to cut from the right angle. Though this might seem unnecessary, it is good to know because it will help you cut efficiently. Choose larger pliers to prevent getting pinched. The best option is to find adjustable pliers which can fit all purposes without compromising your grip or safety.

Regularly check if your pliers are dull. This can influence the quality of the repair and can risk you getting hurt. Also, you can get tired easily if you are working with dull tools.

Many people do not know this, but the motion behind using pliers is not to push on them. Once you’ve gotten a grip on something it is better to pull. This motion is safer and more efficient.

Extra tip: Never forget about your safety. Wear gloves, goggles, and shoes which will prevent injuries and electrocution.

3. Multimeter

A multimeter is a modern tool which every household needs. The device itself is used to measure electricity, voltage, and resistance etc. Most professional handymen tend to have it because it makes their job a lot easier. There is a choice between digital and analog multimeter.

Digital Multimeter

Digital multimeters can often provide more accurate readings which is their biggest advantage over their analog counterparts. They also provide results momentarily. They are also easier to handle and make fewer mistakes.

They are better are measuring and they can memorize measurements. They are light and portable. They cannot be damaged easily. They are resistant to shocks, falls, scratches, more so than analog ones.

They can also do the same measuring techniques as the analog ones, so it’s like having two in one.

You can find a decent digital multimeter for under 50 dollars. Here are some of our picks perfect for HVAC.

Analog Multimeter

Analog multimeters are better if you have a specific feature you need or a special requirement for your job.

Analog multimeters are the best choice if you are required to measure specifications of a fluctuating range. Digital ones tend to be set to give you an average which in some cases is not useful at all. The needle which the analog has will help you determine the specific range. This is something the digital multimeter lacks. They are also better at temperature control, they won’t get heated that easily meaning they won’t malfunction.

An analog multimeter does not require batteries or a special power source. This will save you some time and money.

Analog multimeters are extremely longlasting. Some people tend to have them for a lifetime.

4. Drill

Drills are helpful tools in any repair job. They are especially useful because they save you a lot of time and energy. People who want to do HVAC repairs need to consider the specific use they will have for their drills.

Cordless drills can help you reach inconvenient places while not breaking a sweat. You can be mobile and free while getting the job done.

If you invest in an elaborate drill which can last you a lifetime you can use it for more than one purpose. Apart from drilling, you can be handling different problems with your extensions and additional parts. For some spaces you do not have proper access to, they can be a substitute for a screwdriver.

Some drills come with an installed light. This can be especially helpful for HVAC repairs because they tend to be so intricate and done in closed areas. A cordless drill with a light and extensions might be a perfect solution for heating and cooling repairs. HVAC problems tend to need attention immediately. Let’s say that the heating system failed during the night and you need to see to it right away. A light in the drill will be a game changer and a lifesaver in a situation like that. What is more, this type of elaborate and helpful tool is great for your household kit. It will surely be of good service for years to come.

A drill is a strong tool which will help you drill through even the most difficult materials like metal, steel, or concrete,

5. Tape Measure

This might seem redundant but repairs like these require precision and attention to details. A tape measure is an essential tool in any type of repair service. That being said, you don’t need to spend a lot of many on it. Get one which is lengthy and sturdy.

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Learn How to Use A Multimeter to Test AC Voltage

A multimeter is a helpful device used to measure voltage, electricity, resistance, etc. It is a device most household should have, and most handymen do have. It makes repairs and other jobs easier. You can use a multimeter to measure AC voltage. We have provided you with some helpful information regarding this issue.

 

Using a Multimeter For Beginners

Using a multimeter is easier if you have at least some information on what it is and how it works. The main parts of this device are the display, the dial, and the ports, probes or leads.

The display will naturally display the measurements you require in digits. The result will usually consist of four numbers. When something goes wrong, the screen will often show a negative result. Depending on the model you purchase, the display could have an option of remaining light even in the dark.

The dial or the selection knob is used to set it for particular readings. In some cases, you will want to measure voltage and in others resistance. Either way, this is what the dial is used for.

The ports are used to connect to devices or systems. Usually, all multimeters will have two probes – a red one and a black one.

 

How to Properly Measure Voltage

To measure voltage, you don’t need a lot of specialized knowledge or equipment. You can try out on a battery. All you’ll need to do it is to connect the test leads with the multimeter accordingly. If the connection isn’t good enough, you’ll be able to notice since the result will be negative. Many people wonder how to use a multimeter to test AC voltage. It is not as difficult as it sounds. The trick is to follow the right colors or signifiers and connect the leads correctly.

 

Measuring AC Voltage

First off, you’ll need to know what range of voltage you are dealing with. If you do not know that, then set the range on your multimeter to the highest voltage and turn the dial to ṽ. Make sure your multimeter is not set on the auto-range mode. That will not help you get the accurate measurements.

Next, you’ll need to connect the black lead with the jack “COM.” Then you need to connect the red lead. It will go in the VΩ jack. When you wish to remove the points leads remember to start by disconnecting the red first, and the black second. Try not to touch the tips of the leads with your fingers.

The following step is to read what you get on your display. The display should give you the results quickly. If you want to note a measurement without having to write it down, immediately press the Hold button. You will know if the reading is completed because there will be a beeping sound.

Not sure which multimeter is perfect for your AC? Check out our top picks used specifically for HVAC systems here.

 

The Most Common Mistakes

The most common mistake is mixing up the leads and putting them in the wrong places. That can cause damage to the AC system. What is worse, it can injure you. Though this rarely happens, it is better to keep yourself and your home safe.

 

How to Read the Measurements

All AC voltage measurements will inevitably vary. It will depend on how the power is distributed, or in other words the source of voltage. It can also depend on the type of AC system. You need to take into consideration the fact that if you measure the AC voltage at different times, the result will also vary.

What usually happens is that the voltage is lower than what is expected or regarded as standard.

 

Be Careful At All Times

Safety measures are something people tend to neglect. You should never underestimate what damage can occur when you operate your AC or any other device. Precautions must be followed at all times.

One of the most important things to remember is how to handle probes. Never try to touch the tips of the probes. Remember to place the probes in the right positions. Pay attention to the regulator and see if it’s placed in the accurate position.

 

As mentioned before, remember to remove the leads or the probes in the right order. Take out the red one first and black one second.

Extra tip: Never forget to wear gloves, goggles, and special shoes for extra safety precautions.

 

The Ports, Probes or Leads

The parts of the multimeter are probably the most important. They are made out of top-notch materials to give better readings and last longer. If they are not made from the proper materials, they will sometimes show inaccurate results making your job more difficult. If the device isn’t put together right, it can even lead to electrocution.

That is why you need to do your research before buying a multimeter. You need to know which materials you will be using it on, and what type of probes will it require. Doing the research will help you avoid errors, damage, and will save you from unnecessary expenses.

 

Inspect Leads

Once you’ve already done your research and you know what your multimeter and its leads are good for, you can carry on. The next step is to inspect the leads visually. If there is no other potential risk, the only remaining inspection is to see whether there is visible damage or malfunction. What you are looking for are possible cracks, melted parts, darkened parts, or disconnected parts. If not you may continue with the process.

 

The Final Step – Testing the Leads

The final step is to test the leads. That can be done by putting your multimeter into resistance mode for which the value is in ohms. Next, you will connect the points to the device and touch the tips of the leads. If everything goes according to plan, the reading should be 0.5 ohms or lower. It is essential to do conduct these tests beforehand. This way you can get an accurate reading, avoid damage, or possible injuries.

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AC Not Cooling? DIY Repair Guide

Most people do not indulge in DIY repair projects in their homes. Part of it is because they don’t have the right skills or tool for it. However, some appliances, devices, and systems can be repaired easily. This is, of course, true only of smaller malfunctions. Here is some helpful advice on how to go about repairing your AC.

Tools and Supplies

The essential tools which will come in handy are also tools which every household might have or need. You’ll need a wrench, some pliers, a set of screwdrivers, a drill with extensions, and a multimeter.

Some of the material you might need for DIY AC repair are a capacitor, extra fuses, fan motor, and a  contactor.

Start With Smaller Things

AC not cooling? Say no more. Often times the solution is pretty easy and straightforward. First of all, you need to shut the power off before you do any further inspection or cleaning. Safety precautions are never to be neglected. This can be done by opening the electrical box which is located right by the condensing unit.

Next, you will want to inspect the condenser coils and possibly clean them. This should be done from time to time anyway, to preserve your AC system. Clean the coil thoroughly and repeat a couple of times during the year. The amount of cleaning will depend on how often you actually use your AC.

Check For Blockage

There are several things you can check right away, just to make sure. Apart from cleaning the condenser coil, you can also check if the furnace filter is clean and if the registers in your house are open. If any register or filters were blocked it will surely affect the flow of the air in your home. It might be the reason there is no cooling.

The condenser coil can have a blockage, as well as, the compressor. Check and clean both. You also might notice that you need a new filter. Try replacing it with a new one to see if that will do it.

If you’ve removed the clogs, cleared the vents and cleaned everything let your AC run for a while. If it’s still not cooling then the problem isn’t solved just yet.

Inspecting the AC Unit

If the problem wasn’t fixed by cleaning and replacing certain parts you will need to inspect more thoroughly.

Test How IT Functions

First off, try checking all the fuses in the disconnect block. For this part, you may use a multimeter (in this case, we recommend you a HVAC multimeter and here you can see our top picks). Set the multimeter to the lowest scale on Ohms and connect the leads with each fuse. If there is a problem the multimeter will be reading a negative result. In some cases, the multimeter might be showing the infinity sign. In both cases, this might be indicative of a blown fuse.

Additional Check-Ups

While the power is off, find and check the access panel in your home. Look carefully if any wires are damaged or chewed through. Sometimes the damage might come from pests living inside the building.

Replacing Different Parts

Sometimes your AC system might just be in need of a new part. Once the part is replaced it works like a charm. Parts which could possibly need to be replaced are a contractor, a capacitor, or the fan motor.

The Contactor

The contactor is part of the condensing unit. A new contactor can be found for less than 20 dollars. There are numerous cases where the contactor is the source of the problem. If this is the issue, you are in luck because it is a really cheap and easy repair. Remember that this particular part should be replaced every couple of years. So keep checking it regularly.

The Capacitor

The capacitor is the part required to store and release electricity. All AC systems will have at least one capacitor. This part of the AC unit will also wear off as time passes. The problem is that they can get used up without anybody actually noticing. This can lead to the capacitor simply breaking down overnight. This is why the capacitor should be checked and replaced in a timely manner. If it is not replaced on time, it can damage other parts of the AC. Like the contactor, it should be replaced every couple of years.

Luckily for you, it is not hard to replace a capacitor. You will need to disconnect all the wiring. Remember to memorize the way they were connected. Better yet, take a picture to refer to later. Discharge or release any remaining energy in the capacitor. Use pliers to disconnect wires from the old capacitor and to reconnect them to the new one. Once, you’ve finished check if each wire is in the right place and tightly connected to the new capacitor. Lastly, make sure the new capacitor is tightly secured in its place.

The Fan Motor

Use a screwdriver to unscrew the fan motor, replace it with a new motor. Use different screwdrivers to secure it in place. Connect the new motor wires with the conduit. Make sure the wires are out of reach of the blades. This is important since you don’t want any wires to be cut when you turn on the fan.

Test Your Repairs

Whenever there is a slightest change, replacement, or repair done on an AC unit it needs to be tested. In most cases, the period the AC unit needs to reboot is at least 10 minutes. Make sure you are patient enough to wait out the required time. This is the only way you will find out if your repairs were not futile.

Don’t Fret If the Repairs Did Not Work

If none of these replacements end up working you don’t need to fret.  This only means that the damage or malfunction is bigger than a small replacement and has to be done by an expert. In some cases, you could not have fixed it yourself because you don’t have the proper parts or expertise. You will have to call a professional and let them fix it for you.

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How to Paint a Car Using a LVLP Spray Gun

LVLP spray guns are great for a wide variety of applications including painting a car. However, it’s not as simple as it seems, especially if you have no previous experience. Dealing with high-quality materials requires quite a bit of knowledge as well as a fair amount of experience. However, this should not discourage you from tackling a project that includes painting a car, but you should take a moment and check some of the guidelines we’ve provided in order to prevent unfavorable results.

This guide is designed to offer a deeper insight into the do’s and don’ts when it comes to painting cars, but it’s definitely not a course you should blindly follow. We recommend that you watch some videos and read other guides in addition to this particular one in order to get as much information as possible. Needless to say, you must prepare for a certain amount of failed attempts as this application requires quite a bit of training and experience.

Setting up the space

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The first thing you should think about is the protection of both environment, pieces you’re going to paint, and your health. It’s almost mandatory to tackle this endeavor inside your garage, but if you don’t have one, it’s necessary for you to paint in a somewhat confined space. For example, you should never paint in an open space (e.g., in front of your house) due to several reasons, the main being – dust particles.

As far as dust goes, it’s probably the number-one enemy of car painters. Even one dust particle can ruin the whole project because it’s extremely visible on freshly painted parts. In order to prevent this from happening, you should utilize your air compressor and clean up the space, several times. In fact, after blowing the dust out, it’s highly recommended that you hose the floor with water. Once it dries, use your compressor to blow the remaining dust particles once again. We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to eliminate dust because it takes a small moment of error in judgment to ruin the whole endeavor.

After dealing with dust, it’s time to protect the things inside the garage with either foil or any other type of sheeting. It’s recommended that you cover the entire space with plastic foil or at least cover as much as you can. While it’s well-known that LVLP spray guns have little overspray, it’s still a valid concern, especially if you don’t want any paint particles on your shelves, walls, doors, etcetera.

Proper ventilation is also one of the essential measures one should take, and yet many people either forget about it or simply decide against it. While you should never paint in an open space, you should also never paint in a completely enclosed garage, even if you’re wearing a mask. Most garages usually have some sort of ventilation, but that’s not enough. However, a conventional portable house fan should offer enough ventilation alongside the existing ventilation ports.

Last, but definitely not least, you should always think about your health. That means wearing a breathing mask at all times as well as gloves. While wearing gloves doesn’t sound too relevant, there’s a good reason why the vast majority of professionals wear them. One of those reasons that comes to mind is tied with skin irritation and accompanying issues.

Setting up the equipment

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Now that you’ve created a nice environment, it’s time to fine-tune your equipment. The first step in this process involves pressure adjustment. Most people have a pressure gauge at the end of the hose, and it’s the only way one can truly fine-tune a spray gun. Doing that by following your instincts and guts is a big mistake, even if you have years of experience. Therefore, always make sure to hook up a pressure gauge onto the hose and as it is the only way you can be sure everything is set up correctly and accordingly.

Before applying the first layer of paint, always do a test run on a piece of metal you don’t need. It’s a matter of common sense, but you would be surprised by the number of people who forget about it. Not doing so consequently leads to very annoying issues that include unnecessary sanding and tedious corrections.

Painting individual pieces

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You should always break the car apart as much as possible. That means you should end up with an empty chassis and a pile of disassembled parts.

The order by which you’re going to paint these pieces, as well as the chassis, doesn’t really matter much. In simpler words, you can paint the chassis first and then the parts or vice-versa. When dealing with the parts, make sure they are positioned correctly and that they aren’t touching the ground. Needless to say, everything should be dust-free during this process as well. There is a good chance you will need at least three layers of paint for each part including the body.

The first layer usually consists of primers, while the other two include the paint itself. Depending on what kind of finish you’re looking for as well as the quality of the paint, you may need up to four or five layers. It’s important to remember that every part should be completely dry before applying the next layer. Painting on top of a fresh layer won’t yield good results.

The conclusion

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While we haven’t offered a complete and professional guide on how to paint a car using an LVLP spray gun, these guidelines should be a good starting point for individuals that don’t have much experience with these tools. Painting a car isn’t a process that consists of strict rules that should be followed, but some basic concepts should be kept in mind.

In case you aren’t sure how to deal with unforeseen predicaments, don’t hesitate to watch a couple of videos of professionals that already dealt with same issues. As mentioned, you will have to go through some trial and errors before achieving optimal results. The main thing to remember is not to give up too easily.

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Different Types of Paint for LVLP Spray Gun

One of the most common mistakes people usually make is using the wrong materials with LVLP spray guns. This consequently ends up in a subpar performance of the said tools which then draws most people away. That’s why it’s important for you to comprehend the do’s and don’ts of LVLP spray gun usage in order to avoid these scenarios. Almost every model comes with a user manual and instructions, but needless to say, the vast majority of people simply don’t read those. On top of that, ordering a spray gun that isn’t capable of coping with the materials you’re planning on using is a waste of time, effort, and most importantly – money.

Therefore, if you’re not familiar with the capabilities of an LVLP gun, make sure you read this article and it will become much clearer. While using somewhat wrong materials isn’t a game-breaking thing, it’s definitely something you should avoid.

What Paint Can I Use With a LVLP Spray Gun?

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Automotive Paints

Most people who deal with car painting usually use LVLP spray guns due to their efficiency as well as the quality of the coating. As one can assume, LVLP units work best with low-viscosity paints because it’s much easier to atomize thin materials through the air cap.

On top of that, low-pressure requirements come in handy because thinner materials require less force in comparison to thicker ones.

Primers

Before you decide to paint a particular surface, there is a good chance it needs to be covered with a layer of primer first. Now, people usually apply primers with rollers because the quality of the coating is somewhat irrelevant as it is going to get covered with multiple layers of paint anyway.

However, if you’re a fan of precision and high quality, applying a primer with an LVLP gun is something we would recommend. The best thing about this is that you don’t need any previous experience in order to do a good job because, as we mentioned, the aesthetic aspect of this endeavor is often completely irrelevant.

In case you aren’t sure whether you have the right tool for the job, don’t hesitate to read the user manual as it should contain a list of supporting materials in the first place.

Latex Paints

While latex paints are well-known for being one of the thickest materials around, they can be used with LVLP sprayers. Not that it’s highly recommended, but it’s a possibility nonetheless.

The important thing here to remember is to thin the material down to reasonable levels. In other words, you will have to use very high ratios (up to 1:1, 2:1) in order to get a somewhat acceptable result. The problem here is that you will have to apply multiple layers of latex paint in order to cover everything accordingly. That can be both time-consuming and expensive which is probably a situation one would want to avoid. There are far better solutions out there when it comes to proper tools for latex materials.

Lacquers

Lacquers are extremely hard to apply, especially without proper tools. For example, only a couple of years ago, maybe a few decades, people used rollers and brushes for lacquers which results in visible brush strokes and underwhelming outcomes in general. It’s also quite a time-consuming process because it requires multiple layers and a lot of experience. Therefore, if you were to repaint your furniture, you would have to hire a professional and pay a premium price.

Nowadays it’s much easier to get good results, even if you have limited experience. Truth be told, it takes a lot of practice to achieve perfect results when lacquers are in question, but it’s much easier to get the hang of the concepts and methods thanks to the affordability and availability of spray guns.

Water-based paints

One of the most common materials most people use with spray guns is water based paint. In fact, Latex is also considered to be a water-based material. However, we are talking about your everyday bucket of wall paint here. As you may know, the vast majority of people use brushes and rollers to paint the walls inside their household, which isn’t wrong by any means, but it’s definitely time-consuming and it requires a certain level of experience.

With LVLP spray guns, these painting endeavors are a much easier and quicker solution. On top of that, you don’t have to have years of experience in this industry in order to paint a wall in a proper manner. In fact, anyone can do it as long as they pay attention to important things. In case you’re a complete novice, don’t hesitate to watch a couple of videos online to see how it’s done. You could also refer to some well-written online guides, or ultimately read the user manual that came with your new spray gun.

This particular feature of LVLP guns is one of their greatest advantages because it allows an average user to completely redo and remodel their household on a reasonable budget without having to spend large amounts of money on professionals. However, if you’re not completely comfortable with using these tools, don’t hesitate to hire a professional because it’s well worth the money. It’s always better to strive for optimal results in lieu of saving some money. In fact, the money you save is probably going to be spent on repairing the imperfections caused by improper handling of an LVLP gun.

The conclusion

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While most people don’t pay too much attention to these things, it’s of utmost importance that you get familiar with the supported types of paints when it comes down to properly using a paint sprayer. On the other hand, there is no need to worry too much in case you mess up and use materials that aren’t foreseen for this tool. You won’t cause critical damage nor jeopardize the functionality of your gun, but the results you get won’t be ideal. In fact, most paints that aren’t foreseen for LVLP units yield unacceptable results and require another run.

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