A heat gun is a versatile tool used both in commercial and personal projects. Though all sorts of heat guns work in the same way, the produced temperature varies for different purposes. For example, ac personal heat gun can produce up to 1100-degree Fahrenheit while the commercial heat gun produces even more temperature. However, the sufficient and moderate temperature for all types of projects is 750-degree Fahrenheit. The temperature is capable of accomplishing all usual projects.
However, as heat gun uses electricity to produce heat, both the electricity and the heat are dangerous. The user must take proper initiatives to keep himself safe from unwanted and hazardous incidents.
Here, you’ll know some common but effective safety tips while working with a heat gun.
Safety Tips For Using A Heat Gun
Using a power tool always draws special attention. Any misdeed while working with a heat gun can result in dangerous output. So, follow the general safety rules described below to be safe while working with the heat gun.
Wear protective gear
Protective gears are the essential element to keep you away from any danger. They are mandatory when you want to start any dangerous project. So, use a flammable glove to protect your hands while using a heat gun. The heat-resistant glove will also protect you from the hot air emitted by the nozzles.
Don’t forget to use a respiratory mask. The mask is quite different from the common and usual masks. It will prevent you from inhaling any toxic gases and dangerous fumes.
Finally, wear protective goggles to shield your eyes from heat. Also, always wear long-sleeve shirt along with buttoned and cuffed.
Keep the nozzle at a safe distance
Distance determines a lot about fire and heat. Usually, the novice makes a mistake as most of them don’t know the standard distance of the nozzle and the work spot. They think that too much close may help the shiny gun to work faster. But, the standard distance of using a heat gun is the 6-inch distance from the surface.
So, keep the nozzle at 45-degree angle to the surface for at least 6-inch distance. Wood, plastic, aluminum, steel, and other common goods work well from a distance. Too much closer than 6-inch may result in firing, melting or burning the whole surface.
Set at your desired temperature
Another mistake from the first-time users: they set the temperature after turning on the hot electric tool. Though high temperature can get the task done faster, beginning the project without setting the temperature can be dangerous. It may burn the whole surface as the heat gun produce heat while plugging in. Even, at that time turning off the switch is quite difficult and risky.
So, determine the required temperature to accomplish the project at first. Then set the temperature of the heat gun and plug in the cord. To know more to avoid danger, always follow the user manual provided by the manufacturers.
Check heat gun and extension cords
Numerous accidents are occurred due to damaged cords or heat guns. Any leak of the extension cord may supply electricity to the surrounding electrified metals. As a result, the surrounded metals can be electrified which may result in hazardous accidents. Even, tripping over an extension cord can pull a high-wattage electronic device to cause a fire or burn.
So, check the extension cord as well as other related (such as leads) tools of the heat gun before starting the project. Always try to avoid using damaged leads as it may not work with other new metals. So, use new leads with new projects to make it effective. Although, the damaged leads can be useful for a long period.
Ensure proper ventilation
Proper air circulation is not mandatory but also life-saving while working indoors. Heat gun produces noxious fumes from the corroded surface or stripped paint. So, in the absence of windows or other ventilation, these toxic contaminants, particles and debris mix with the air which effects on breathtaking.
So, the doors and windows should be opened while working indoors. If it is not possible, make sure that proper ventilation is available in the workplace. Also, the workplace should be free from any flammable materials and objects.
Heat gun maintenance
Like other heat producing tools, heat gun also needs a little time to be cooled. So, keep it rest for 5 to 10 minutes after each time use. However, most of the heat guns come with a kickstand to prevent them from tipping over. Also, keep the gun on the surface in a way so that the hot tool can’t roll or fall. The nozzles and the outer surface should be cleaned regularly. Otherwise, the debris or dust will proceed the gun to be wasted.
Another mistake from the novice users: they don’t know the specific task for different nozzles. So, make sure that you are going to use specific knowledge for a specific task. A glass nozzle shouldn’t be used for fishtail task. It’ll destroy not only the nozzles but also the working surface.
Safety Tips For Using A Heat Gun
Important Gun Safety Tips
- Always read, understand and follow the instructions ad verbum described in the manuals provided by the manufacturers.
- No jewelry, no loose-fitting clothing, no slippery footwear, no necktie is allowed while working with heat guns. Long hair should be tied back out of your way.
- Never use heat guns while you are under the influence of alcohol or any other drugs.
- Switch off the power before plugging in the heat gun or other power tools.
- While unplugging the heat gun, make sure that it is turned off. Always remove the battery pack after uses to store (if the battery pack is detachable).
- Never use any accessories which are not recommended or supplied for those heat gun.
- Never pour the power tools with water or work in a damp or wet environment.
- Pregnant moms, children, and pets should be kept away always near the working area.
- As most heat guns come with three prolonged plugs, make sure that cords are plugged in well.
- Always stay on both feet. Never try to reach overreach while using a heat gun or other power tools.
- Never rush to accomplish the project. Keep the power tool doing its work usually and get a precisely completed project.
I started this blog to provide an advanced guide and information to the people to choose the best product. Writing over every part of the tools. I try to cover every type of tool to review and information.