What should you do if your equipment is suddenly too noisy for your salon?
Let me preface this article by saying that the *only* piece of HVLP equipment we recommend for use in a salon, particularly in a spa setting, is the TC3: The Show Stealer. Why? Because it is built into a soundproof box.
I know, I know…but you’re just starting out. So maybe you’re not at the top of your game; or maybe you’re not looking for top of the line equipment just yet.
In general, you will find all HVLP (high volume, low pressure) equipment to be loud. Most people equate it the noise a vacuum cleaner makes. Some equipment has the ability to change the volume by adjusting the “Solid State Control” knob. Of course, this may change the spray pattern, so it’s not always ideal.
Each piece of HVLP is perfect in its own right. The T100: The Understudy is great for the beginner, or traveling technician. It’s lightweight and highly portable. The T500: The Head Liner is also great for beginners and gives a professional appearance in its shiny, aluminum travel case (on wheels). The T100 and T500 are not meant for continuous spray; you should allow about 10 minutes of cool-down time between clients. The T700: The Performer and the TC3: The Show Stealer are the big boys. Both can be run all day without overheating. They are both portable, though we recommend a small handcart for transporting the TC3, as it is the largest of our HVLP equipment.
But back to my original point…
So you purchased the T100 a few months ago when you were starting out. And now you’ve partnered with a salon for a permanent locale…and your T100 is just a bit too loud for the customers’ liking. What can you do?!
You have a few options.
First, if your new tanning space has a closet or adjoining room, place the compressor in the separate room and run the hose through the wall. If you have a drop-ceiling, you can also mount the equipment above the ceiling tiles, dropping the hose down from above. Technicians who choose these options typically put their equipment on remote-controlled power systems.
Another option is to encase your equipment in a box to reduce the sound. Boxes can be built by the technician or purchased from the equipment manufacturers. If you choose to build one, you should leave 6-8” inches of space on all sides of the equipment. You should also consider ventilation and air flow when you are building the box. Build the box to incorporate furnace filters which reduce the noise, while allowing for air to circulate around the motor. You do not want you equipment to overheat—which can shorten its life.
If neither option is feasible, try selling your current equipment on sites like eBay. Then purchase a piece more suitable for your new environment!
For more information on HVLP equipment, check out our HVLP Equipment/Supplies category. My personal recommendation? The T700: The Performer.
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