FAQ

1. What is a spray booth, and why do I need one?
   A spray booth is a controlled environment designed to safely apply paint or coatings, prevent contamination, and meet health and safety regulations.
2. What types of spray booths are there?
   Common types include downdraft, crossdraft, semi-downdraft, side downdraft, open-face, and portable booths. Each suits different applications and budgets.
3. Do I need a spray booth to be code-compliant?
   Yes. Most municipalities and fire departments require spray booths to comply with NFPA 33, OSHA, and local building/fire codes.

4. What size booth do I need?
   It depends on the size of your parts, equipment, and workflow. Always consider space for operator access and future expansion.
5. What kind of filters do spray booths use?
   Most use a combination of intake filters, exhaust filters, and pre-filters. HEPA or carbon filters may be used in advanced systems.
6. How often should I change the filters?
   Filter life depends on usage and material sprayed, but many need replacement every 1–3 weeks with heavy use.
7. Can I spray flammable materials?
   Only in a booth rated for flammable or combustible materials and equipped with proper fire suppression.

8. How does airflow work in a spray booth?
   Air is drawn through the booth in a controlled direction (e.g., top to bottom or back to front), capturing overspray and fumes.
9. What is a make-up air unit, and do I need one?
   Make-up air units (AMUs) replace the air exhausted by the booth. They're required in sealed buildings or where airflow balance matters.
10. What is the required CFM (cubic feet per minute) for my booth?
    CFM depends on booth size and type. Crossdrafts may require 100–150 FPM across the face; downdrafts may need more.

11. What are the main codes that apply to spray booths?

• NFPA 33 (spray applications)
• OSHA 1910 (worker safety)
• IBC/IFC (building and fire codes)
• UL / ETL (certifications for electrical/fire safety)

12. Do spray booths need fire suppression systems?
    Yes, most do—especially enclosed booths spraying flammable or combustible materials.
13. Can I install a booth myself?
    It’s possible, but professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure code compliance and avoid costly mistakes.

14. How much does a spray booth cost?
    Basic open-face booths can start around $5,000–$10,000; fully equipped downdraft booths can exceed $50,000.
15. What is the operating cost of a spray booth?
    Includes electricity, filters, paint waste disposal, fire system maintenance, and air makeup heating (if applicable).
16. Do I need a permit to install a spray booth?
    Usually yes. Permits may be required from building, fire, and air quality authorities (like AQMD in California).

17. How do I clean and maintain my spray booth?
    Regularly clean overspray buildup, replace filters, check fans/motors, and inspect fire suppression components.
18. Why is my booth losing airflow?
    Common causes: clogged filters, fan issues, blocked ducting, or insufficient make-up air.