Frequently asked questions
Removing paint can be necessary for a number of reasons. It can be to prepare the surface for painting or to restore the original appearance of an object. Removing old paint can also be important to uncover any damage or problems beneath the surface.
Even if a paint job is done well, the paint will lose its elasticity over time and can crack, peel or change. At that point, it is time to remove the paint all the way down to the wood surface.
If there are too many layers of paint, it can weigh down the surface and cause loss of detail, which may be a reason why it is time to remove all the paint.
Removing old layers of paint is sometimes necessary for lasting results and to avoid complications. It is an important part of maintaining a surface in optimal condition.
There may be several reasons.
A common mistake is to layer different types of paint on top of each other. Mixing paint types is risky as they often don't work together, which can result in problems such as blistering or cracking. To ensure a good end result, in these cases the paint should be completely removed and the painting process started over from the beginning.
Improper preparation of previous paintings can lead to cracking and flaking. Painting when it is too hot or humid are also common mistakes that can affect the final result.
Removing old layers of paint is sometimes necessary for lasting results and to avoid complications. It is an important part of maintaining a surface in optimal condition.
Yes, you absolutely can. However, if the paint has started to crack, peel and peel off, it is very important to scrape off all the paint on the affected surface. The absolute best results are achieved by scraping off all the old paint layers and painting on a dry, even and clean surface. This will give you a nice finish that will last a long time.
Speedheater IR system was founded back in 1988 and is today a well-known and proven method for paint removal. Here are some of the advantages of Speedheater:
- Made in Sweden with predominantly Swedish-made components.
- Quiet in operation.
- Vibration-free during use.
- High quality and long durability.
- Non-toxic, does not vaporize harmful substances such as lead in old paint.
- Environmentally friendly and energy efficient, saves up to 75% energy compared to a heat gun.
- Easy to handle and clean
- Quickly, remove paint from the substrate in seconds
- Energy efficient with long lamp life.
- Improves the quality of wood by drying out moisture, killing mold and fungus, and improving the wood's resistance to moisture.
- Increases the lifespan of paint layers when painting on a dry, clean surface.
- Easy to use without the need for prior knowledge.
- Safe to use with low temperatures and ergonomic design.
- Creates longer maintenance intervals and sustainable results.
- Economical in the long term with high resale value.
- Gentle on the surface and provides precision in the work.
- Works on most surfaces and materials.
- Continuous development work to improve the product.
- Service & maintenance on all machines
Speedheater IR systems are easy to use.
- Heat
- Scrape
- Paint directly!
Here is more information on how to remove paint with Speedheater.
Do you have a special project in mind? Check out our Guides & Manuals to see if we have a guide that can help you. Contact us or your nearest dealer if you have any further questions or concerns.
The first question is of course – will both tools help you remove paint? Yes, but there are many reasons why it is both safer and more effective to use Speedheater’s IR system. Here are a few examples of why we recommend Speedheater over a heat gun.
- Precision: The specific infrared wavelengths used in the Speedheater™ only heat what is directly in front of the heat source and not the surrounding area. Heat guns blow super hot air unevenly over a wider area, which increases the risk of fire and reduces efficiency. The heat gun also has to be in constant motion, making it difficult to control where and how long the paint is heated.
- Lower temperature: Speedheater™ only needs to heat the paint to 110-160°C /400-600℉ to separate the bottom layer of paint from the wood. Heat guns need to heat paint from the top down to 400°C/1000℉ to make the surface ready for scraping.
- Less fire risk: Speedheater™ infrared rays only create heat in the upper part of the wood and in the paint, therefore minimizing the risk of fire. The hot air from the heat gun goes between and under boards and into cracks where dust and debris can easily ignite. The high heat penetrates the back of the wood and into the material behind the wood. Undetected from the surface, these can catch fire later after the scraping is complete.
- Knowledge: Speedheater™ requires less prior knowledge to safely monitor the heat. With Speedheater™, you can quickly remove all layers of paint down to the bare wood in just a few strokes. With heat guns, reheating is often required and additional scraping is often necessary to remove the paint. Without the right tools and experience, there is a high risk of damaging the wood.
The Speedheater system improves the quality of the wood by drying out moisture, killing mold and fungus, and strengthening the wood's surface. This results in longer life of the paint layer and better adhesion of new paint. According to tests from Alcro Becker's research laboratory, the paint substrate shows better properties after using Speedheater compared to new wood.
Yes, the Speedheater system is non-toxic and does not generate any hazardous fumes during use. Research has shown that the fumes produced by moisture and paint are harmless.
The Speedheater system is safe and non-toxic and does not generate any hazardous fumes during use, this applies to all paint types, including lead paint.
Lead in paint turns into invisible and toxic fumes at 480-530 °C / 900-1000 ℉. With a very specific infrared wavelength, the Speedheater™ does its job more efficiently but only needs to heat the paint to 110-160 °C / 400-600 ℉. Lead fumes are not created at this low temperature.
However, we always recommend the use of heat-resistant gloves, eye protection, respiratory protection or dust protection when working with paint removal. Lead paint residues must be handled carefully and disposed of properly. Always follow hazardous waste laws and regulations when handling residues.
To remove paint from wood with Speedheater, follow these steps:
- Place the Speedheater machine on the surface where the paint is to be removed.
- Adjust the heating surface so that it covers the paint surface.
- Turn on the Speedheater machine and wait for about 3-20 seconds until the paint bubbles and smokes.
- Use a scraper to scrape away the loose paint.
- Repeat the process until all the paint has been removed.
Yes, the Speedheater system can be used on materials other than wood. It can also be used on stone, concrete, veneer, metal and some plastics. Before using the Speedheater system on a specific material, it is always a good idea to test it on a less visible area to ensure that the material is not damaged.
Yes, it is possible to remove paint with these options. However, they have certain disadvantages. These are the reason and the reason why our founder started Speedheater.
- With hot air, there is a big risk that it will get too hot – it is both tricky to work with and you risk burning or even causing sparks that could lead to a fire on the surface.
- High heat can release toxic fumes
and you as a user risk being left in an environment with dangerous chemicals in the air. - Chemicals are not only messy and messy to work with, they are also often dangerous to our environment.
- Chemicals must work for several hours, and you must also wait before you can paint on the surface once all the paint is gone.
Speedheater's infrared technology doesn't require as much heat and therefore doesn't release dangerous fumes, plus you can heat, scrape and paint straight away. Fast, safe and efficient!
Yes, the Speedheater can be used in a variety of weather conditions. Please be sure to take precautions when using in damp or cold weather, and always use the device according to the instructions.
The heat on the surface usually reaches about 110-160 °C /400-600 ℉.
Products & Use
All Speedheater machines can be used to remove paint from a variety of surfaces, but some models may be more suitable for specific purposes. The Cobra is the smallest and fastest – it is a good all-round tool that works well on most surfaces and for a variety of projects. If you work mostly on medium and larger surfaces, the Rapid Slim or Standard may be preferable. If you work exclusively with facade work, the Twin machine together with the arm is the most effective for increased workflow.
Do you need to remove paint that is dry or heated? Below we list our ergonomic paint scrapers.
Paint scrapers for heated paint:
- Flexi scraper – for fine details and a flexible selection of blade profiles.
- Profile scraper – for rougher joinery. Has concave scraper blades to fit rounded profiles.
- Boomerang scraper – for finer details. Has both concave and convex blades and pointed corners to reach into small nooks and crannies. Suitable for many different surfaces.
- Panel scraper – for quick scraping of flat surfaces. Has three flat blades that quickly remove paint.
- Putty scraper – scraping clean glass and putty seams, etc. Has a cutting edge that follows the shiny surface of the glass and leaves very little residue.
- Putty chisel – tool used in conjunction with a putty scraper. Effectively removes putty from the window frame. A chisel with an adjustable support wheel against the window frame that provides the correct depth without damaging the glass.
Paint scrapers for dry scraping:
- 8-Blade Scraper – for two-handed operation on unheated paint.
Want to know more about our paint scrapers? Take a look at “Choose the right paint scraper” for more information.
Speedheater is great for many different types of projects. Here are some project ideas where you can use Speedheater:
- Furniture renovation: Freshen up old furniture by removing old paint or varnish.
- Building conservation: Preserve and restore historic buildings by removing old paint and varnish.
- Boat renovation. Paint can be really tricky to remove, but with a Speedheater the job becomes much easier and more fun.
- Window renovation. You'll have to look for a better friend for removing paint from windows.
- DIY project: Renovate chairs, cabinets, tables and more by removing paint with Speedheater.
- Remove condensation. Speedheater is a very good help when you need to remove condensation in, for example, a boat.
- Burn weeds. Avoid chemicals and burn the weeds instead!
Yes, working with Speedheater machines can normally fall under hot work regulations as they use infrared heat technology for paint removal. According to the Swedish hot work guidelines, professionals are required to follow safety measures, including training and a hot work permit, and to follow prescribed safety procedures. This does not apply to private individuals, but only to professionals.
For more information, visit Hot Jobs .
All it takes is a simple push. The push adjusts the blade angle so you can use all sides of the scraper blade without having to change blades. The Flexi scraper makes it possible to quickly adjust the scraper profile in seconds. The scraper is designed with two fixed working positions for optimal angles.
The Flexi scraper has a unique blade attachment that can be angled with just a light push, making it easy to use all sides of the scraper blade without having to reassemble the scraper blade. When you want to change the profile blade, just unscrew the screw, insert a new scraper blade and tighten. Done! For increased flexibility, all our scraper blades are compatible with all our paint scrapers.
When you want to change the profile blade, simply unscrew the screw, insert a new scraper blade and tighten. Done! For increased flexibility, all our scraper blades are compatible with all our paint scrapers.
Perfect project together with a Speedheater. Here you can take part in our guide to window renovation . Complete with instructions that can help you along the way. Is there anything else you are wondering about? Contact us or your nearest retailer and we will help!
Here you can take part in our guide for facade renovation . Complete with instructions that can help you along the way. Is there anything else you are wondering about? Contact us or your nearest dealer and we will help!
Here you can take part in our guide to boat renovation . Complete with instructions that can help you along the way. Is there anything else you are wondering about? Contact us or your nearest dealer and we will help!
Here you can take part in our guide for furniture renovation . Complete with instructions that can help you along the way. Is there anything else you are wondering about? Contact us or your nearest retailer and we will help!
Order & Delivery
Speedheater is sold through retailers or here on our website. Find your nearest retailer here!
Delivery time varies depending on where the delivery is to be sent and which shipping method you choose. Feel free to contact our customer service for more information.
We deliver to almost every country in the world. However, there are some exceptions where we cannot or are not allowed to deliver.
What is the delivery time?
- Sweden 1-3 days (a few days longer in rural areas and the islands)
- Nordic countries 3-5 days
- Europe 3-7 days
- USA/Canada 3-10 days depending on the state and customs procedures
- Australia 5-10 days
- Other countries 5-10 days
In some cases, delays may occur due to external factors beyond our control.
- In the Nordic region, private individuals can have their deliveries delivered to a representative or home. For companies, we offer delivery to the door or to a representative.
- In Europe and the rest of the world you get your deliveries to your door
In Sweden and the Nordic region, we currently work with DHL Express, DHL Freight, Bring and Schenker.
In Europe we work with DHL Freight to most countries
For the USA, Canada, Australia and other parts of the world we use DHL Express and for the USA we also use UPS.
We are continuously working to find and meet the best possible delivery quality.
Shipping varies depending on volume and where in the world the package is being sent. We actively work to get the most favorable shipping prices possible for our customers.
You can try calculating your shipping cost yourself by adding a product to your cart – go to Cart – select “Calculate shipping” or “Change shipping” – Select Country, Zip code and City
- Orders to the USA will be shipped primarily from our warehouse in Virginia – USA.
- Other orders are shipped from our head office, warehouse and production in Alingsås – Sweden.
When your delivery is picked up from our warehouse, the carrier will send you an SMS or email with a tracking number so you can follow your delivery.
If you have your tracking number, the first step is to contact the shipping company that handled your delivery. This is the easiest and fastest way to get an answer about where your item is.
If you do not have a tracking number or the transport company cannot help you, you can contact us at Speedheater System AB at info@speedheater.com and we will help you.
Normally, the shipment remains with the agent for 14 days and at the terminal for 5 days. After that, it is returned to us. Any costs incurred in connection with the return will be charged to you as the customer unless otherwise agreed between Speedheater System AB and you as the customer.
If you discover any damage when receiving the delivery, you must notify the driver/agent immediately. The driver will need to make a note/documentation so that you, the customer, can prove that you did not cause the damage.
A complaint needs to be made. Take photos (if possible) of the packaging before you open it, and photograph any damage to the item(s) that has occurred in connection with the damage.
Then contact us at info@speedheater.com and we will help.
Shipping fee refers to the cost that the shipping company charges to ship an item from one location to another. All companies handle their shipping fees differently. Here at Speedheater, we only charge a small portion of the actual shipping fee to you when you shop with us, the rest we cover ourselves.
A tariff is a tax you pay when you import a product. In some countries, you also pay a tariff when you export a product. Countries charge tariffs on imported goods for fiscal reasons or to protect their own industry from competition from imported goods.
Speedheater has no control over customs fees as these are entirely handled by the authorities of each country. Please note that customs fees, if applicable, are the responsibility of the buyer. We encourage our customers to be aware of the customs regulations in their respective countries.
A tariff is a tax you pay when you import a product. In some countries, you also pay a tariff when you export a product. Countries charge tariffs on imported goods for fiscal reasons or to protect their own industry from competition from imported goods.
The transport company handles the customs process and calculates the cost. An invoice is sent to the delivery recipient via text message/email or letter. Only when the invoice is paid will the delivery be made.
Speedheater has no control over customs fees as these are entirely handled by the authorities of each country. Please note that customs fees, if applicable, are the responsibility of the buyer. We encourage our customers to be aware of the customs regulations in their respective countries.
Contact your country's authority for more information.
All countries handle the customs process and taxes differently, so we recommend that you contact the authorities, transport companies and/or relevant departments for your country.
When you purchase a product from another country, there may be customs costs associated with the import or export of the product. Each country decides which costs and rules apply. Speedheater cannot influence these costs, but it is your responsibility as a customer to review the rules that apply to your country.
Speedheater currently has two warehouses: Alingsås/Sweden and Virginia/USA. When you shop with us, we try to ship the goods from the warehouse closest to you as much as possible.
- If you trade between countries within Europe, you are generally not charged customs costs.
- If you trade between countries outside Europe, it is often associated with customs costs.
Contact your country's authority for more information.
All countries handle the customs process and taxes differently, so we recommend that you contact the authorities, transport companies and/or relevant departments for your country.
The amount of customs duty depends on the type of goods you have purchased, how much it costs and which country it comes from. Some goods are not subject to customs duty.
In addition to the customs duty, you may also have to pay VAT on the goods you purchase.
Shipping companies may also charge a handling fee for handling a customs declaration that is made in connection with your purchase. The cost varies for each shipping company. We recommend that you contact the shipping company for more information about their pricing.
All shipping companies have different procedures. We recommend that you contact the shipping company that handles your delivery and request information from them. There is a risk of being charged additional costs if you choose not to pay the customs fee or redeem your package.
When you return the goods and you have paid customs duties and associated taxes, these will be refunded by the relevant authorities and transport companies.
Maintenance & cleaning
Extend the lifespan of your Speedheater with regular maintenance and cleaning both before and after use.
- Always unplug your Speedheater from the power outlet before cleaning.
- Always allow the device to cool completely.
- Use a brush or cloth to carefully remove any dirt or paint residue from the product.
- Before use, regularly check the cord and connections for any damage.
- Store the Speedheater in a clean and dry place.
Always follow the usage and maintenance instructions in the accompanying product and warranty leaflet.
Technical support
We offer a 1-year warranty on all our products. We also normally replace all production and manufacturing defects, however, we usually need to make an individual assessment for each case.
We can usually also offer service and repair for any damage or faults. If you have any questions, please contact your product dealer or contact us directly.
We offer a 1-year warranty on all our products. We also normally replace all production and manufacturing defects, however, we usually need to make an individual assessment for each case.
We can usually also offer service and repair for any damage or faults. If you have any questions, please contact your product dealer or contact us directly.
We have several spare parts for sale here on our website. We also offer service and repair on our products. If you have any questions, please contact your product dealer or contact us directly.
Payment
On our website we offer several payment options to suit your needs, including PayPal, Swish, credit/debit card, invoice and installment payment. Availability varies depending on your country of residence.
Buybacks & Returns
See our terms and conditions for more information.
Environment & Sustainability
Speedheater contributes to a more environmentally friendly renovation by removing the need for hazardous chemicals and solvents. Our technology uses infrared heat to soften the paint, reducing environmental impact and creating a healthier working environment.
Reseller
Speedheater System is available in a variety of stores and retailers across Northern Europe, the USA and Canada. We are proud of all our retailers! Do you just want to rent a Speedheater? There are rental companies too, all so that we can create more opportunities for environmentally friendly, easy paint removal. Here you can find a retailer near you!
It should be easy and fun to work as our contract ÅF. If you would like more information about what it means to be a Speedheater reseller, you are most welcome to contact our sales manager Johanna Orinder today by phone +46(0)31-3368553 or email johanna@speedheater.com.
Other questions
If the paint contains lead, it should be disposed of as hazardous waste for recycling. If in doubt, all paint should be considered hazardous waste. Other paint should be disposed of at an environmental station or recycling center. Packages with paint residues, even dried ones, should also be disposed of there. This also applies if the paint is water-soluble.