The innovation of HVLP spray guns has made painting easier, quicker, and cheaper for professionals and DIYers alike.
They are beloved by cabinet makers and furniture builders, and they’re perfect for a lot of detail painting around a home.
If you want to learn more about HVLP spray gun systems and wish to get to grips with the HVLP spray guns setup and uses, this guide is for you.
HVLP spray guns use compressed air mixed with the paint and results in a continuous fine spray. The acronym HVLP stands for high-volume, low-pressure [1].
This means that the HVLP spray gun systems will need a high volume of air (HV) to aerosolize the paint that’s contained in the spray gun’s basin. It then gets sprayed at a high volume low pressure (lower air pressure) leaving you with a lot less overspray, and it reduces the amount of air pollution from the paint.
There are two types of HVLP spray guns on the market:
Main Uses of an HVLP Paint Sprayer
Detail painting with HVLP paint sprayers
One of the most common uses for HVLP paint sprayers is for small detail painting. HVLP paint sprayers used for either touch-up or completely repaint doors, trims, baseboards, and more.
The majority of HVLP spray guns or HVLP spraying can be used vertically or horizontally, and the high volume low pressure of HVLP paint that's being released will leave you with great coverage and less mess to clean up once your painting is complete.

Painting furniture
As furniture painting requires a high level of precision, using an HVLP sprayer will be a perfect choice as the HVLP paint spraying system is propelled at lower pressure for more precision.
You can hold the HVLP gun closer to furnishings to spread even layers of paints without the worry of drips from occurring.
By using an HVLP sprayer, you’ll get a smooth and professional-looking finish on a range of your furniture at home.
Auto refinishing
HVLP sprayers are used when spray painting automotive vehicles as they tend to get the job done with a lot less paint. This is primarily because they have less overspray, so there is less time wasted on removing unwanted paint from the rest of the vehicle.
It also makes it a lot safer and better for the sprayer’s health as fewer microscopic paint droplets are being released into the air.
Marine finishing
Many professionals use HVLP spray guns to coat marine vessels as they can be used on metal and wooden surfaces. With the right paint and paint sprayers, you can get great protection with rust and corrosion-resistant finishes.
If you’re doing this yourself, it’s important to keep the distance between the surface and the gun to a minimum (about 3-4”) to stop unnecessary overspray.
Main Parts & Components Of A HVLP Paint Sprayer
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The Good and Bad Of Using HVLP Units
HVLP Pros
HVLP Cons
5 Tips for Using HVLP Paint Sprayers
- 1Before you begin using your paint sprayer, you will need to prepare the surface you wish to paint. This may mean sanding down the surface or stripping pre-existing paint. Once it’s completed, clean the area and make sure it is clear of sand and dust.
- 2Before you connect the spray gun to the motor, you should fill the paint reservoir first. It will make it a lot easier for you to do this first. If you are using thicker consistencies, you may need to thin the paint as HVLP sprayers are primarily used with water-based enamel paints.
- 3Next, check the filters are clean in the motor and check that there’s no damage to the hose. If these look good, then connect the spray gun to the hose and the motor. Plug in the unit and adjust the nozzle to your preference.
- 4Spray the surface using a back and forth sweeping pattern. Avoid lingering in one place, so a build-up of paint doesn't occur. You can be about 4-8 inches away from the surface at a given time.
- 5Once you’ve completed your paint job, empty the paint reservoir and fill it with water or paint thinner to clean the spray gun. Do not leave the spray gun with paint in it, or else you risk clogging the gun. Spray the gun into a bucket until there isn't any more paint leaving the unit.

Difference Between HVLP & LVLP Spray Guns
Now that you know the setup and uses of an HVLP spray gun, it’s time to look at HVLP vs LVLP spray guns. LVLP (Low Volume, Low Pressure) air spray guns use minimum air compression to operate. They typically work between 10-25 PSI and can work with as little as 5 CFM.
HVLP needs a good air compressor to function efficiently [2]. Most units operate at about 20 CFM and at least 50PSI. If you're a professional, buying an LVLP spray gun may be an advantage for you over the HVLP as it means you can use them with almost any air compressor.
Difference Between HVLP & Airless Sprayers
When it comes to HVLP vs airless sprayers there are some key things to keep in mind. Firstly, airless paint sprayers are perfect for large, flat surfaces like walls, tanks, garbage bins, and more.
In comparison, HVLP is better known for fine finishes and more precision. You can finish a job a lot quicker with an airless paint sprayer, but you lose the attention to detail.
When using an airless paint sprayer, you can achieve up to 1,700 psi at the nozzle, compared to 10 psi from an HVLP sprayer, so airless units are a lot more powerful.
The easiest way to differentiate between the two is that airless sprayers are a great substitute for a roller, and HVLP sprayers substitute a brush.
Common Questions About HVLP Spray Guns
Can you use latex paint in an HVLP sprayer?
Yes, you can use latex paint in an HVLP Paint sprayer, but it may need to be thinned first to ensure proper atomization and spray pattern.
How much air pressure does an HVLP paint gun need?
HVLP paint guns typically require an air pressure of 10 PSI to 20 PSI. The exact pressure needed may vary depending on the specific gun and the type of paint being used.
Should HVLP guns be cleaned between coats?
Yes, HVLP guns should be cleaned between coats if you are using different type of paints. However, if you are continuing to use the same water-based paints, then there is no need to clean your HVLP spray gun between coats.
Are HVLP spray gun tips interchangeable?
The majority of HVLP guns feature interchangeable tips. Some models come with several tips to suit certain paint types and finishes.
Conclusion
HVLP spray guns can efficiently spray surfaces with precision, and they will leave you with a beautiful, professional finish. Best of all, you don't need to be a pro to use one.
If you are looking for portability, affordability, and convenience, then an HVLP spray gun could be a great tool for you.
References:
1. https://www.corrosionpedia.com/definition/2180/high-volume-low-pressure-hvlp
2. https://www.sames.com/sao/en/faq-which-compressor-hvlp-spray-gun.html