A backpack sprayer is a helpful and effective tool, both at home and for service-based businesses. Backpack sprayers are typically used in the landscaping and pest control industries for applying water, herbicides, fertilizer, fungicides, pesticides, and other chemicals. When selecting a backpack sprayer for personal or business use, it is important to understand what to look for in a sprayer so that you get the right sprayer for the jobs you will be completing. When using a Backpack Sprayer it is also important to understand what maintenance is required of your backpack sprayer to ensure it is running for as long as possible.
1. Selection of a backpack sprayer
When choosing a backpack sprayer, there are several factors to take into consideration. First, you will need to determine what you are looking to use the backpack sprayer for. Different usages include, but are not limited to, are a pest control service business, a lawn care service business or do it yourself (DIY) use at home.
Depending on what you are using the backpack for, you will want to consider factors such as size, brand, design, and power source (battery or manual). Firstly, if you get a backpack sprayer that is the wrong size, you may find that the tank doesn’t hold enough fluid for the job that needs to be done. You can figure out the right backpack sprayer by understanding the average size of the job you complete and referencing the chemical’s label.
Next, comfort in a backpack sprayer is incredibly important, especially when you and/or your employees will be wearing it for long periods of time – something to consider if it could lead to paid time off for your employees with workplace injuries.
When choosing a backpack sprayer, you will also want to make sure that you purchase a sprayer that is battery operated so that you don’t have a manual pump. Manual pump backpack sprayers are not the ideal option for businesses or individuals who spray often. Manual pump backpack sprayers do not provide as consistent of an application as battery powered sprayers. Additionally, manual pump backpack sprayers are known to cause undue strain on the pumping elbow.
Lastly, the brand of backpack sprayer should be considered when choosing the right tool for you or your business. You will want to purchase a backpack sprayer from a company that you can trust and who provides exemplary customer service. As a bonus, find a business that has servicing and support videos (YouTube) for their equipment! Not only does this show they care about the product, but you have access to that information when the supplier is closed.
2. Proper use of a backpack sprayer
To ensure that your spraying jobs are done efficiently and effectively, you will need to know how to properly use your backpack sprayer.
The first thing you will need to do upon receiving you back pack sprayer is charge the battery. Some manufacturers will send the battery with some power, but do not be surprised if the battery is completely empty.
Next, you will need to assemble the back pack sprayer. This may include, attaching the backpack straps to the tank, connecting the treating hose to the pump and connecting the gun/trigger to the spray lance.
Following the sprayer’s assembly, you can prepare the liquid in accordance with any chemical labels you are using. We recommend that you prepare the liquid in a container that is exclusively used for mixing chemicals and rinsed after each use or directly in the back pack sprayer tank. Additionally, it is suggested you plan out your mixture on paper before you begin pouring.
After preparing the solution, you can pour the mixture to the backpack’s tank. Be sure to fasten the lid of the tank tightly to ensure the liquid stays in the backpack’s tank.
You are now ready to begin spraying! After loading the backpack onto your back, point the lance and tip at the intended treatment area. When pulling on the gun’s trigger, liquid should come out almost immediately. The method of applying your mixture will depend on the type of job you are completing. If you are unsure, consult with the chemicals label for application instructions.
3. Maintaining a backpack sprayer
Once you have purchased a backpack sprayer, it is important to know how to properly maintain the sprayer so that it works properly when you use it. Without periodic maintenance, you may run into issues such as clogging, deterioration or even breakage with extreme neglect. Inspecting, cleaning, and replacing parts during your downtime is needed to keep your backpack sprayer working for years.
Before each use, you will want to clean the filter on the backpack to make sure it is clear of debris. After completing the job, you will want to triple rinse the back pack sprayer and dispose of the waste in accordance with your local laws. This simple task of running water through the back pack sprayer removes any toxic chemicals that may eat away at the pump’s seals. Next, inspect your nozzles for any chemical build up. If you notice any build up, clean the nozzles with a soft bristle brush. Contact us!