We all know what we should be doing when we receive new sprayer; we should carefully open the box, remove all of the packed items, and read the instructions fully before we slowly and diligently assemble the sprayer whilst reading the instructions again and maybe even again. We then double check all of the connections to ensure that our build is secure and that there won't be any leaks.
Unfortunately this isn't the case for too many of us - the usual process is to open the box, tip everything out, assemble it, then fill with your chemical of choice and start spraying. The instruction booklet may receive a cursory glance but many times it is only looked at if there is a problem.
We know this process well, as when many of us receive things we fall into the same traps. By not following the key steps, you will fail to get the most from the first use of your sprayer and any accessories.
Many of you reading this may think that we are stating the obvious - we're here to help with key reminders, and, from some conversations that we have had with customers we know that not everything is obvious to everyone:
- Open the box carefully - if you use a knife to open the box then please do so with care. The box will contain a hose that could be damaged by a sharp blade.
- Check all parts - The instruction manual will have a parts list so please check that you have everything before you start assembly. Some small parts can be stored inside the sprayer tank so please check here before checking the list.
- Read the manual - An obvious one, but the one that most of us ignore. Some of our sprayers are much easier to assemble than others however the manual will generally contain a small nugget of information that you may not know, so a quick read through could save a lot of time in the future especially when it comes to maintenance.
- No tools needed - Apart from the larger of our electric sprayers, you shouldn't need any tools to assemble your sprayer. If any tools are required then the instruction manual will make it obvious what is needed and where they should be used. If no tools are required then please don't use them as they could cause damage.
- Muscle memory - the hose will have been coiled inside the box since its manufacture, so it can be a good idea to open the hose out and gently pull it or even run some warm water through to help it straighten before assembly, especially in colder weather. This isn't vital for all sprayers but some hoses are made from thick rubber so it can make the first few uses a little easier.
- Connectors - please check and double check any threaded connections to make sure that you are happy with their tightness and that nothing has been cross threaded. Straightening the hose (where required) can help with the connections as a stiff hose could loosen threaded connectors if the hose is moved around a lot during the first few uses.
- USE WATER - on the first use of the sprayer use water rather than the chemical you are planning to spray. It is very easy to not notice a connector hasn't been fully tightened, or a hose not properly located so it is far better to drip water rather than chemicals. Also, it allows you to familiarise yourself with the sprayer and any other equipment such as telescopic lances and new nozzles.
Hopefully these points will help you with the assembly and use of your sprayer, and if you have any other queries don't be shy to contact us.