The company that invented and developed IR as a paint removal method
Today we are a company that develops, manufactures and sells products and system solutions for paint, putty and varnish removal. All to solve customers' problems in this area.
The Speedheater System is our patented method for paint removal using IR, and it is a product that is both invented, developed and manufactured here in Sweden by us at Speedheater.
The company was founded in 1988 by Birger Ericson and focused on facade renovations with a growing proportion of paint removal assignments. The work was carried out using methods available on the market at the time, such as chemicals or blasting. It was found that these methods caused significant damage to the wooden surface and had a negative effect on the user's health, and Birger saw a great need for new and better technology. Three important things had to be fulfilled in the development of the new technology:
Do not damage the substrate
Does not harm the environment or the user
Simple to use
Birger's solution was the new invention Speedheater, which is based on IR technology that softens the paint layers all the way to the wooden surface.
The Speedheater technology was presented at a paint trade fair back in 1991 and operations during the 1990s were primarily focused on rental and sales to the professional market.
In 2000, the Speedheater 1100 was launched. A smaller, handheld model that was also developed to facilitate window renovation and was aimed at ordinary consumers. In the years since then, we have developed the Speedheater concept with new, more efficient solutions on model 1100 (Speedheater Standard and Speedheater Rapid) but also various accessories such as suspension and scrapers. We have also developed the brand new model Speedheater Cobra that is even more flexible and easy to handle.
How we work
We are a company that thinks about making work easier and more efficient at every stage. Both when it comes to developing new products for our customers as well as in internal work. We have an inclusive corporate culture where every employee is equally important. Working at Speedheater System means taking personal responsibility for your work area in combination with support from all colleagues. This gives strength and an efficient service organization that our customers clearly feel.
Meet Speedheater's founder and CEO
Birger Ericson
Even before 1988, when Speedheater System AB was founded, Birger had been driven by a tireless commitment to developing innovative solutions that make it easy for both professionals and enthusiasts to restore buildings, furniture and boats. The setbacks have been many over the years, but Birger has never lost his passion for developing and producing high-quality solutions that are safe for both users and the environment. Birger's inventions have helped change the industry and set new standards for both experts and DIYers.
In addition to being a devoted family man and inventor of the highest order, he also leads Speedheater's fantastic team with humility and great personal commitment. Not only that, he was recently elected as chairman of the Alingsås Entrepreneurs' Association and has previously been on the board of the Gothenburg Inventors' Association .
Swedish Office and Production
The head office and production are located in Alingsås, Sweden. Here we develop and manufacture our products, as well as handle storage and marketing. Our organization includes several departments led by our inventor, founder and CEO, Birger Ericson. We have a marketing department, logistics department, sales department and production department as well as a main warehouse.
Speedheater USA
Christopher Hewett and Lourdes Garcia are leading Speedheater’s expansion into the US market. With over 12 years of experience using Speedheater System tools, Chris and Lourdes have extensive knowledge in global logistics, manufacturing, sales and marketing. Their deep passion for historic preservation and renovation, coupled with their work with My Old House Fix, has given them a comprehensive understanding of the industry. This makes them the perfect partners to grow our dealer network and improve customer service at the wholesale level.
