Frequently Asked Questions at Solo

Got a question about your sprayer? You're in the right place! 

Whether you're looking for advice on choosing the right sprayer, finding spare parts, maintaining your equipment or troubleshooting an issue, we've answered some of the most common questions we receive from Solo customers. 

Browse the questions below to find the information you need. If you can't find what you're looking for, our team is always happy to help. 

Choosing a Sprayer

• What is the difference between piston vs diaphragm pump? A piston pump features a cylinder housing in which a piston travels up and down to generate pressure. Piston backpack models can reach 60psi with a pressure adjuster, and 90psi with an optional plug installed. Piston sprayers are not recommended for wettable powders, abrasive, or bleach solutions.

          The diaphragm pump uses a flexible diaphragm moving back and forth to draw liquid in and push it out under pressure.. The diaphragm pumps can reach up to 60psi. Diaphragm pumps are equipped to handle abrasive chemicals.

The higher the PSI, the smaller the droplet size and the greater the risk of spray drift. Lower PSI produces larger droplets, reducing the risk of drift. 

• What is the best sprayer for harsh chemicals? When working with harsh chemicals, choosing a sprayer that is compatible with the product you're using is essential. Both our Solo and Jacto range include sprayers designed for harsher chemicals. Across our Jacto range we have the SB-16U, SB-8U, HD-400U & across our Solo range we have the 475 backpack sprayer and our sprayers across the Cleanline range - which include 305B, 309FB, 305A, 309FA & 333FA. 

Not sure which sprayer is right for you? The best choice depends on what you're spraying, how often you'll be using it and the size of the job. Before choosing a sprayer, here are a few things to consider: 

• What will you be spraying? From garden weeds and plants to orchards and larger areas, different jobs call for different equipment.
• How large is the area? A small garden might only need a hand-held sprayer, while larger areas may be better suited to a backpack battery sprayer or ATV/Quad sprayer. 
• How often will you use it? If you're spraying regularly, comfort, capacity and ease of use may be particularly important. 
• Would you prefer battery powered or manual? Consider whether you'd rather pump the sprayer yourself or if you'd rather have a battery powered option that does the work for you. 
• What features matter most to you? Think about tank capacity, spray reach, weight and the type of nozzle you'll need. 

Spare Parts & Accessories

• What do the different coloured nozzles mean? Each different nozzle colour indicates a droplet size. Red fan tips are 110˚ .04, blue fan nozzles are 110˚ .03, yellow fan nozzles are 80˚ .02, green fan nozzles are 80˚ .015 and orange nozzles are 80˚ .01, producing the finest mist . Have any more questions about the different types of nozzles? Call our friendly team and we can point you in the right direction. 
• Can my wand be extended? The sprayer wands can be made longer by purchasing the 51cm wand extension which will provide a 1m wand. If you are wanting to make it even longer, you have to take the original wand off and replace it with a longer wand. 
• Where can I buy spare parts for my sprayers? Right here at Solo. We have a wide collection of parts and accessories for our solo sprayers and our other brands like Fimco & Jacto. Can't find a part you're after? Give our friendly team a call and we will look into it for you. 
  

Care & Maintenance

• How do I clean my sprayer?  Here are 4 steps: 1. Release pressure, rinse with clean water & drain the sprayer after each use. 2. If necessary clean your sprayer with mild soap and water mix. Avoid aggressive cleaning solutions. 3. Occasionally lubricate the sprayer collar, piston, cylinder and cap gaskets with petroleum jelly. Do not use oil for lubrication. 4. Clean the nozzle and filter with small soft brush.

Sprayer Troubleshooting

• Why is my sprayer not building pressure? If your sprayer isn't building pressure, there are a few possible causes. The valve plates may be dirty or damaged, the O-ring at the valve seat may be damaged, the collar or the piston may be worn, or the pressure regulator seal may be leaking. How to troubleshoot: Clean or replace the valve plates or cylinder, replace if necessary, and inspect the pressure regulator seal and valve seat. If you've tried these steps and your sprayer still isn't building pressure, give our friendly team a call or pop in and see us. We're happy to help!
• Why is my spray pattern uneven? If you are experiencing an uneven spray pattern, either the nozzle is worn or blocked or the filter is blocked. How to troubleshoot: Make sure you check the nozzle or filter and check to see if it needs replacing or cleaning. Problem still not solved? Call us.
• Why is my sprayer leaking? If your sprayer is leaking, it could be a couple of things. First, you must identify where the leak is. If the leak is inside the cylinder, it could be a damaged collar or piston. Make sure to clean or replace the collar and possibly cylinder if it is worn. If the leak is outside the cylinder, it could be a damaged o-ring on cylinder or on the pressure cylinder. For this, make sure to replace the o-ring. If the leak is on the diaphragm pump, it could be a damaged diaphragm or a damaged o-ring on a diaphragm housing. To fix this, replace diaphragm or o-ring. If the leak is at the trigger, it could be a worn or damaged component. To fix this, inspect and rebuild the trigger. How to video for this is available on our YouTube channel and website. Still having issues? Give our friendly team a call or send us an email with a photo of your sprayer and what's wrong and we will help you get it sorted. 

Ordering & Product Support 

• How do I contact Solo for help? You can get in touch with us by phone on 07 847 3562, email us at orders@solonz.co.nz or fill out our contact us form on our website. Our Hamilton office is also open Monday to Friday if you'd like to come in. 
• Do you ship overseas? At this stage, we only ship within New Zealand. However, if you're based overseas, we may be able to ship your order to a freight forwarder or shipping agent in New Zealand, organised by you. If you'd like to organise this option, get in touch with our team before placing your order, and we'll see what we can arrange. 
• What if my address is not recognised? Please do not force the system to accept the address. Give us a call and we will help you out.
• Do you do repairs? Yes! We have a workshop in our office in Hamilton. If you are needing a repair or service on your sprayer, feel free to bring your sprayer to us and we can book it in to get repaired.