Heat gun buying guide

A heat gun is primarily used for stripping paint on surfaces like walls, blinds or any other facade before sanding .

Its high temperature also allows for different uses:

• Heating of frozen pipes ;

• Heating of wood before gluing;

• Dislodging warped screws ;

• Heated welding ;

• Drying of primer or paint ;

• Shaping heat-formable materials such as tar roofing;

• Desoldering of circuit boards etc.

Hot guns are distinguished by two technologies: gas and electric.

Gas heat gun

Although less frequently used, they provide independence from electricity thanks to gas cartridges- of the C206 genre. Gas heat guns are easier to handle - as they are cordless.

Electric heat gun

More common, they are plugged directly into a 220V outlet and benefit from a safer use when compared to gas. For better accessibility, the use of an extension cord may be necessary.

A heat gun has very few factors to consider, since its mechanism is relatively simple. Nevertheless, it is highly recommended to be pay attention to it's power, flow of extremely hot air and temperature control.

Power

Expressed in Watts (W), the gun's power determines its maximum temperature - ranging from 1,500 to over 2,300 W. The higher the temperature, the faster the effect on the unwanted paint will be, making it easier to take off.  Be very careful however, as falling asleep with it still on the stand will result in damage, melting or and maybe even ignition!

Hot air flow 

Expressed in liters per minute (l / min), it influences the rate at which the temperature reaches the surface.It is most commonly set at 500l / min and can be adjusted (2 or even 3 possible configurations) depending on the model.

Temperature control 

Essential for those hoping to engage in the varied use of heat (welding, bending, ect). Often comes with 3 temperature options: 50, 400 and 600 ° C. The high-end heat guns even have liquid crystal display.

Accessories are dependent on intended uses. Any heat gun is usually delivered with:

• A scraper, to combine scraping and heating;

• Cone nozzle to focus the beam of the resulting heat;

• Spoon reflector for defrosting, bending or welding;

• Surface nozzle for welding.

All these accessories make it possible to focus the hot air and thus facilitate the specific uses listed upstream above.

To summarize, choosing a heat gun comes down to two main points: power source (whether or not you have a supply of electricity) and the intended use.

The specific projects and their frequency will also help to determine the usefulness of the accessories and the required level of workmanship.

Some models even have the anti-overheating option, an ergonomic handle, a bag or a carrying case... it's up to you to choose!

And beware, this is not a hair dryer! Always use proper safety: gloves , goggles and protective mask!

For passionate hobbyist and DIY-lovers, follow the links below for DIY-related accessories, advice from our editors and more helpful guides:

• How to choose your paint?

• How to choose your sander?

• How to choose your glue-gun?

• How to choose your wallpaper?

• How to choose your welding tools?

And to work safely:

• How to choose your protective gloves?

• How to choose your protective eyewear?

• How to choose your protective mask?