How to protect and paint a rusty air conditioner condenser?

[Shane]

I have a place on the coast and the condenser is exposed to the elements and rusting. 

I had a look at Bunnings for products the other day and was a little confused. 

I take it I need a treatment to attack the rust, then a primer, and then a paint. Can you please recommend what products are suitable and what quantity I would need?

Thanks. 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Shane,

Thank you for your question about painting a rusty air conditioner condenser.

You'll want to start by removing as much surface rust as possible with a wire brush.

Once tidied up, give the whole unit a clean with sugar soap to remove any dust or particulate matter that can affect the adhesion of your primer or paint.

You can then treat the rust with White Knight 0.125L Rust Guard Rust Converter. Paint it on and allow it to dry. The process will darken the rust spots and prevent them from returning.

You can then prime the unit with White Knight Rust Guard Quick Dry All Purpose Primer Spray Paint then apply two coats of White Knight 310g White Gloss Rust Guard Epoxy Enamel Spray Paint.

Make sure the power to the condenser is off and you mask off all areas where you don't want the paint to get. Also, remember to wear a mask while removing the rust, treating, priming and painting.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[Shane]

Thanks Jacob. 

Any reason you have suggested a spray paint? 

I am a little wary of getting it everywhere and would probably be more comfortable with applying using a brush. 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Shane,

The main reason I recommended spray paint is because unfortunately, the white primer only comes in a spray can. There is this White Knight Rust Guard Medium Grey Metal Primer Paint which should be fine, you will just need a second layer of topcoat to ensure none of the grey pokes through. 

The White Knight Rust Guard Gloss White Epoxy Enamel Paint also comes in a tin and can be painted on with a brush or roller.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob