Filters & Strainers

Think of your sprayer's filters and strainers as the complete line of defence for its internal components. Their main job is to catch any tiny particles, debris, or contaminants in your paint or fluid before they can reach the delicate parts of your pump and gun. Without them, this grit can cause rapid wear and tear on your packings, piston, and gun components, leading to premature failure and costly repairs.

A clean, high-quality filter system also guarantees a better finish. By preventing debris from getting to the spray tip, you eliminate the single biggest cause of tip blockages. This means less frustrating downtime spent clearing clogs and more time laying down suitable, sharp lines. Using the right filters is a simple, low-cost way to protect your investment, extend your machine's life, and ensure a professional result on every single job.

That’s an effective question, because matching your filtration to your job is key for a flawless finish. The first step is to check your machine's manual. It will specify the correct type of manifold and gun filters designed for your particular model, like a Graco LineLazer. Using the part numbers from the manual is the most foolproof way to get a good fit.

Next, you need to consider the material you're spraying. This is where the mesh size comes in. For thicker materials like standard line marking paint, a 60-mesh filter is generally your best bet. If you're spraying thinner liquids or low-build paints, you might step up to a finer 100-mesh filter to catch smaller particles. It's a balance—you want the finest mesh possible to protect your tip, without it clogging up too quickly. Having a few different mesh sizes on hand is a great pro tip. Getting these two things right ensures your strainers work effectively, preventing tip clogs and protecting your pump

The best practice is to clean your filters and strainers after every single job. It might sound like a lot, but it's a simple, five-minute task that prevents paint from drying inside the mesh, which can cause blockages and flow issues on your next project. Simply remove the manifold filter and your gun filter, give them a thorough rinse in the appropriate cleaning solvent (water for water-based paints, solvent for others), and make sure they are completely clean before storing your machine.

As for replacement, you should inspect your filters for any signs of damage during each clean. Look for any holes, tears, or deformities in the mesh. If you see any damage, replace it immediately. A compromised filter isn't doing its job and can lead to tip clogs or pump damage. Even if they look okay, it's good practice to replace your most-used strainers every few months as part of your regular maintenance schedule to ensure peak performance.

That’s an effective question, because knowing what to look for can save you from a major headache on the job. The most obvious sign is physical damage. When you're cleaning your filters after a job, give them a quick visual inspection. If you see any tears, holes, or crushed or deformed mesh, it's time for a replacement, no questions asked. A damaged filter simply can't do its job of protecting your pump and preventing tip clogs.

Another key sign is if you start experiencing frequent tip blockages, even after you've thoroughly cleaned your strainers. This can indicate that the mesh has stretched or warped, allowing larger particles to slip through. Similarly, if a filter seems to clog up much faster than it used to, it could be a sign that old, dried paint is permanently embedded in the mesh, reducing flow. Don't risk a poor finish or equipment damage; replacing your filters is a cheap and easy way to guarantee performance.