When you change chemicals in your sprayer, what should you do?

When changing chemicals in your sprayer, it is essential to clean the sprayer thoroughly. This practice is crucial for several reasons. First, leftover residues from the previous chemicals can interact with the new chemicals, potentially causing harmful reactions or reducing the effectiveness of the new product. Cleaning the sprayer ensures that all previous substances are removed, preventing contamination and ensuring that the new chemical performs as intended.

Additionally, not cleaning the sprayer can leave behind traces of chemicals that may create safety hazards for applicators or the environment, especially if the previous chemical was more hazardous or has a different mode of action. Thorough cleaning will also prolong the life of the equipment and maintain its performance, as residues can corrode or damage sprayer components over time.

The other options do not prioritize safety or efficacy. Filling the tank with a new chemical without cleaning could result in unfavorable chemical interactions. Adding new product before the tank is empty may not adequately remove the previous chemical, and allowing the sprayer to sit without cleaning could lead to residue buildup that is difficult to remove later. Therefore, cleaning the sprayer is the most responsible and effective practice when switching chemicals.