For tips on how to use your heat gun, we have rounded up some helpful advice from industry professionals.
Stay safe
“Heat guns should be held at an angle of approximately 45 degrees from the work and never kept in one place for more than a few seconds. In terms of safety, always wear a thick pair of gloves, [be] in a well-ventilated space, and always use a suitable respirator face mask.” – DIY Doctor
Heat guns, by nature, get incredibly hot when in use. If you leave it in one place for more than a few seconds, there’s the possibility it can start a fire (depending on the material you’re working on). Fortunately, heat temperature controls can limit this risk.
Wearing a face mask and being in a well-ventilated space is particularly important when working with paint and chemicals. You want to avoid breathing in any dangerous fumes.
The right speed
“You do need to be careful not to move too slowly as this will burn the wood. Too fast, and you won’t soften the paint enough. You may need to do a few passes if the paint has multiple layers.” – BuildersSA
Depending on your project, finding the right speed when using your heat gun may require a little practice.
Maintain distance
“Never operate the heat gun with the outlet nozzle hard up against a surface; this will reduce the air and can have the same effect as obstructing the air inlet grills. If the airflow is reduced, the heat gun will overheat and possibly catch fire.” – DIY Data
Aside from the dangers, obstructing the nozzle will also lead to ineffective performance and a lack of temperature control.
Cooling off period
“After using a heat gun, wait for it to cool before placing it in storage. Heat guns will remain hot for several hours. Immediately storing a heat gun after using it could result in a fire.” – Safety Company
When leaving your heat gun to cool off, ensure this is done with precaution. For example, you don’t want it in a place where it can be easily knocked over.
Don’t delay with repairs
“You need your Leister equipment every day. Sometimes you use it in extreme conditions. As a result, individual parts will wear out over the years. Give your equipment a break from time to time.” – Leister
If you use your heat gun regularly, it’s only natural that wear and tear will occur. Instead of letting wear and tear build-up, which leads to ineffective performance and a bigger repair job in the future, ensure to revive the ineffective heat gun components.
These repairs are usually quick to complete. For instance, if you use a Leister heat gun, you can send it to one of Leister’s 90 service and support centers worldwide. They will work to get your heat gun back to you, and it will be just like new.