Troubleshooting & Support

Aerosol Not Spraying

If your aerosol is not spraying, do not assume the can is empty or faulty. Work through these simple checks first, without forcing the valve or damaging the can.

Quick answer

The most common causes are insufficient shaking, a blocked or damaged actuator, unsuitable temperature, incorrect use of a 2K aerosol, or a can that has been stored incorrectly.

What to do

1

Confirm the can and product

Check that you have the correct product, finish and can type. If it is a 2K aerosol, confirm whether it has been activated and whether its usable life has expired.

2

Bring the aerosol to a suitable temperature

Very cold paint can spray poorly and may develop weak pressure or poor atomisation. Allow the can to reach the temperature stated on the label before use.

3

Shake thoroughly

Shake the can vigorously for the period specified on its label. Pigment and additives can settle during storage, affecting both spray quality and pressure.

4

Inspect the actuator and nozzle

Check that the actuator is seated correctly and that the spray opening is not blocked with dried product. Never insert a sharp object into the valve.

5

Test spray in a safe direction

Use a suitable test card or scrap panel in a properly prepared spraying area. A weak, irregular or absent spray can help identify whether the problem is with the nozzle or can pressure.

6

Check how the can is being held

Keep the aerosol in the orientation stated on the label. Some specialty products have specific spray positions and should not be used upside down unless designed for it.

7

Stop if the can appears damaged

Do not use a can that is leaking, badly dented, corroded, swollen or otherwise damaged. Set it aside safely and follow the product and waste-disposal guidance.

8

Contact us when the fault remains

If the can still will not spray after the basic checks, stop using it and contact AerosolsRus with the order number, product details and photographs where possible.

Important

Follow the product label and current Technical and Safety Data Sheets. Do not modify, puncture or misuse aerosol containers.

Common mistakes to avoid

Forcing a blocked nozzle with a pin or sharp object

Review this point before continuing with your coating system.

Continuing to spray a can that is leaking or damaged

Review this point before continuing with your coating system.

Using an aerosol when it is too cold for the product

Review this point before continuing with your coating system.

Failing to shake the can sufficiently

Review this point before continuing with your coating system.

Mixing up a 2K activation issue with a pressure fault

Review this point before continuing with your coating system.

Throwing the can away before contacting us about a suspected fault

Review this point before continuing with your coating system.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my aerosol spraying weakly?
Check temperature, thorough shaking, nozzle condition and correct spray position. A partially blocked actuator or unsuitable temperature can reduce atomisation.
Can I unblock an aerosol nozzle with a needle?
No. Do not insert sharp objects into the nozzle or valve. Remove and replace a removable actuator only where the product instructions allow it.
Why does my 2K aerosol stop spraying?
A 2K aerosol has a limited working life after activation. If its usable period has expired, the coating may no longer spray correctly.
What should I do with a damaged aerosol?
Do not use it. Isolate it safely, avoid heat and ignition sources, and follow the product label and local waste guidance.
What information should I send you about a faulty aerosol?
Send the order number, product name, batch or can details where visible, a description of the fault and clear photographs or a short video if practical.

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