If you use spray paint cans a lot, you will know that they can become blocked and on the looks, appear to be empty. However, 90% of the time, that simply is not the case. If a spray paint can is in constant use on a regular basis, the cap and nozzle can become blocked. Simply removing the blockage can be all it takes to get your coloured spray can working again.
Here are a few things that you can do to help unblock a spray paint can:
- Shake the can well before use
- Hold the can upside down
- Clean the nozzle and retry
Shake the can well
Before you use a spray paint can for the first time, make sure that you have read and understood the directions of use that can be found on the back of the can. Some spray paint cans may have a little information on the base.
If you are not sure how to operate a spray paint can safely, do some research online or contact someone that can show you how.
If you do not prepare a spray can properly before its first use, the chances of it being blocked and not working is considerably higher.
Hold the can upside down
If you continue to have problems with blocked spray paint cans, try hold the can upside down and shaking it well. The pressure will transfer to the bottom of the can (or top s it is now upside down).
When ready, apply some pressure to the nozzle and wait for the can to start spraying its contents. The pressure built up inside the can should push any blockages through and make the can useful once more.
Alternatively, you can try to remove any small pieces of dry paint or blockages with a pin. Simply pick them away from the nozzle and repeat the spraying method above. Make sure that you do not pierce the can or aerosol. The pressure inside could cause the can to erupt and cause serious damage.
Clean the nozzle
If you have tried all of the above and continue to have problems using your spray cans, try cleaning the spray nozzle thoroughly. This can be done by gently removing the nozzle from the can and adding it to a small solution of lacquer thinner. You can use the can cap as a small bowl for this.
