Accudraft Expert Answers Paint Booth Problems & Questions
Paint booth technicians hear it all, from simple to complex problems. The Accudraft service team works on every type of paint booth (yes, even non-Accudraft booths), meaning we’ve really seen and heard it all. While every booth is slightly different from each other, they all experience the same common issues. Here are the most common paint booth problems we see and how we fix them.
How Long Does a Paint Booth Last?
Paint booths are a huge investment but can also be a huge waste of money if not taken care of properly. With regular maintenance, a booth can last a few decades, even 40+ years. However, most booths will run for about 20-25 years because a shop will upgrade their equipment.
If a shop doesn’t keep up with maintenance, it’s not if the paint booth will break but when. While it’s easy to think a booth is simply a clean cabin to paint in, it has many mechanical components that can break. If all parts are taken care of and kept clean, a booth will perform its best for many years.
Remember, all mechanical parts can be changed out indefinitely (or, until they stop producing the parts). When the cabin itself starts to show wear, that’s when a booth needs to be totally replaced. Some older or outdated booths need total upgrades because a shop won’t be able to find parts anymore. In this situation, it’s important to consider what will be more cost-efficient: retrofitting an old booth or installing a totally new one?
How Do You Control Dust in a Paint Booth?
Controlling dust in a paint booth is a major issue for some production shops. However, you can significantly reduce or eliminate dust by following these essential tips.
- Always keep doors closed, even when the booth is not in use. When painters leave the booth doors open between paint jobs or after-hours, dust and other airborne particles can settle into the cabin and stir up the next time the booth is on.
- Ensure all filters are regularly cleaned. Every painter should know the importance of changing filters. If a booth has clogged filters, it can’t breathe, causing significant airflow issues and low-quality results.
- Blow out the booth after every job to keep the cabin clean. As cars are being driven out of the booth, blow off the walls and floors to flush all the contaminants out. By taking the time to blow, sweep, and vacuum, painters can prevent the spread of dust and dirt.
- Perform basic cleaning on a regular basis. Start by cleaning off any over-spray, then wiping down all components of the booth (such as ceiling fans). Did you know 90% of contaminants come from the painter? It’s crucial to work with a clean suit and paint gun.
- Invest in floor coatings. Floor coatings have become super popular in recent years. Over-spray collects on its tacky texture, which can be easily removed with a quick power wash. Some shops even use a carpet, vacuum, or a Roomba!
How Often Should Paint Booth Filters be Changed?
Filters should be changed at least every six months, but really it depends on the type of filter. For example, ceiling filters can be changed after 600 hours of work, whereas floor filters should be replaced after 50 hours of work. Clogged filters can cause a number of airflow and over-spray issues. Painters should keep a log of their booth’s maintenance, even on a simple clipboard attached to the booth’s wall. This way, it’s always recorded when the last maintenance was performed, and when it’s time to do it again.
Pro-tip: Watch the pressure gauge! Once it starts rising, air is getting backed up and it likely means that filters need to be changed.
Stay on Top of Maintenance with Accudraft’s Service Team
Accudraft offers maintenance plans to all types of shops across the country, even those without Accudraft booths. From booth service to emergency repairs, it’s always a smart choice to have an existing relationship with a paint booth service provider. Not only can we come to your shop to perform routine maintenance and cleanings, but we’ll already be acquainted with your equipment in the event a serious issue occurs. To learn more about our service options, contact our team online.