A Titan airless paint sprayer is a heavy-duty machine that can speed up painting jobs, make them more efficient, and make them look more professional. But as with any equipment, it requires regular maintenance, particularly cleaning. If not cleaned thoroughly after every use, residual paint can dry within the machine, causing clogged tips, decreased spray quality, or even permanent damage to internal parts. This manual will guide you on how to clean your Titan airless sprayer properly so that it lasts longer and functions like new every time.
Why Cleaning Matters?
Cleaning properly is not only a matter of having your equipment looking its best—it has a direct impact on performance and life expectancy. Dried-out paint within the sprayer will clog hoses, guns, and tips, lower spray quality, and produce an inconsistent finish. Additionally, overlooking maintenance will spell expensive repairs or replacement of the sprayer. Taking a little extra time each time you use the sprayer helps you safeguard your investment and produce consistent, perfect finishes on every project.
Gather Your Supplies
As a first step before initiating the cleaning process, ensure that you possess all the equipment you require. This will ensure the process is easier and quicker. For water-based (latex) paints, use water; oil-based paints use the correct solvent, like mineral spirits. You will require a pair of buckets, clean rags or paper towels, a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush, safety gloves, and eye protection. You will need a wrench to take off some parts, and a Titan tip cleaning tool will aid in getting rid of clogged paint from the spray tip. Finally, have pump armor ready to safeguard the sprayer when it is stored.
Step 1: Power Down and Relieve Pressure
Safety first. Start by turning off the sprayer and pulling it away from the power supply. Turn the pressure valve to the "prime" position to begin releasing any trapped pressure in the system. Next, aim the spray gun into a waste bucket and pull the trigger to relieve all the pressure inside. With the pressure completely relieved, lock the trigger to avoid accidental spraying while cleaning.
Step 2: Flush the Paint
Your sprayer is now safe to use, so it's time to drain any leftover paint from the system. Insert the siphon tube (or suction tube) into a bucket containing the proper cleaning solution—water for latex or mineral spirits for oil-based paint. Aim the spray gun into a waste bucket and put the machine into "spray" mode. Turn it on and let the cleaning solution circulate through the system until it comes out clean. This can take a few minutes, particularly if there is a lot of remaining paint in the lines.
Step 3: Clean the Gun and Tip
After the sprayer has been flushed, remove the spray gun and take off the spray tip and guard. Soak these components in your cleaning solution for 10 to 15 minutes to loosen any paint that is still on. Scrub them gently with a brush or the Titan tip cleaning tool after soaking to get rid of dried paint. Don't scratch the tip—these pieces are delicate and critical to having an even spray pattern. Rinse and let them air dry.
Step 4: Clean the Filters
Your Titan airless sprayer has several filters—usually in the suction tube, the manifold, and the gun. They should be taken out and cleaned separately. Wash each filter with running water or soak it in solvent, depending on the paint type used. Use your soft brush to clean off any buildup gently. Filters are important for having a consistent flow and for preventing clogs, so don't omit this step.
Step 5: Clean the Outside
Having gotten all the parts inside taken care of, it's time to clean outside your machine. Take a damp cloth and use it to clean the sprayer, hose, and gun outside. This gets rid of paint splatters or paint residue that may have dried on the outside. Don't let water or solvent get inside the motor or electrical parts—only wipe them with the damp cloth.
Step 6: Complete Final Clean Water Flush (latex paints only).
If you painted with water-based paint, it is advisable to send one additional cycle of clean water through the equipment to eliminate any remaining cleaning solution. This keeps the system from corroding and has it clean and prepared for your next project. Just put the suction tube in a container of clean water, change over to spray, and push the water through until it is all clear.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your Titan airless paint sprayer is easy, but it does involve staying with it. A well-maintained and cleaned-up sprayer not only ensures better performance but also saves you money down the road by preventing unnecessary repairs or replacements. Incorporate cleaning into your painting routine, and your Titan sprayer will keep on providing you with professional-level work for many years to come.
