To maintain your heated hoses for spray foam insulation in top condition, consider these updated tips and practices based on the latest industry information:
- Regular Flushing: It's crucial to flush your heated hoses immediately before spraying. This prevents gelling of the lines, which can occur if flushing is done a day earlier. For a standard 50-foot hose section, a basic starting point is to use 1QT for flushing.
- Daily Cleaning and Inspection: Clean your equipment daily, including the spray foam gun and other tools. This helps to prevent clogs and ensures smooth operation. Additionally, daily inspection of your generator, air compressor, and other components is vital to spot any potential issues early.
- Bi-Weekly Maintenance: Every other week, clean the y-strainers in your machine, change the fluid in your proportioning pump, strip down your spray foam gun for a deep clean, replace damaged components, lubricate drum pumps, and wash the exterior of your rig or truck.
- Attention to Power Hookups: Regularly check the oil and fuel levels in your machine’s generator and air compressor. Ensure that the filters on your air compressor are clean and replace them as necessary.
- Care for Your Spray Gun: After every use, wipe down and inspect your spray gun for excess chemicals and buildup. Periodically disassemble and soak the parts in an industrial cleaning solvent for thorough cleaning.
- Hose Maintenance: Clear hoses of excess chemicals at the end of each day. Store them properly to avoid chemical buildup. For heated hose systems, ensure that the hose is removed from its hanging rack before turning on the heat to prevent stress and damage.
- Winterization Tips: In colder climates, store your chemical between 60-80 degrees. Use a heater for your spray foam materials in extremely cold environments. Keep your rig climate controlled and plugged in overnight during cold months. Also, if storing your rig for the winter, flush the system with 5-10 gallons of DOP.
- Organized Storage: At the end of each day, store your equipment neatly to avoid unnecessary stress or strain. Inspect all components for any minor damage or wear and address issues promptly.
- Detailed Maintenance Schedule: Create a written policy and maintenance schedule for your equipment. Maintain a work log of your jobs to help identify and fix issues effectively.
