Milwaukee SWITCH TANK 4-Gallon Backpack Sprayer

The Milwaukee SWITCH TANK 4-Gallon Backpack Sprayer (model 2820-20PS) is an intriguing piece of equipment that promises to revolutionize professional landscape maintenance with its innovative features. As a long-time user of various Milwaukee tools, I approached this sprayer with high expectations. Here's my detailed take on it after using it extensively for a variety of tasks.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stands out about this sprayer is its interchangeable tank design, which allows for easy application changes. This feature is particularly useful if you switch between different chemicals frequently. The tanks are made of high-density polyethylene, which is generally durable but has its drawbacks. Unfortunately, I encountered several issues with leaking tanks, which seemed to originate from flaws in the tank's mold. It's disappointing, especially given Milwaukee's reputation for durability.

Ease of Use

One of the most appealing aspects of this sprayer is the elimination of manual pumping. Powered by Milwaukee's M18 cordless battery system, the sprayer delivers adjustable pressure up to 120 PSI, making it versatile for various spraying needs. The 5-mode pressure adjustment knob is intuitive and easy to use, allowing for quick changes on the fly. However, the unit is on the heavier side, weighing around 16.7 lbs without liquid. This weight can become cumbersome during extended use, especially when the tank is full.

Performance

When it works, the performance is impressive. The sprayer can shoot fluid up to 25 feet, making it ideal for covering large areas quickly. The adjustable pressure settings allow for precise control, which is crucial when dealing with different types of chemicals. I found the spray quality to be consistent, and the unit was particularly effective for spot spraying weeds and applying pesticides.

However, the sprayer's reliability is a mixed bag. On multiple occasions, I experienced issues with the pump not functioning correctly. Sometimes the unit would stop pumping altogether, or the spray pressure would dramatically decrease. These issues often required troubleshooting, such as cleaning the filter or checking the battery terminals, which can be frustrating and time-consuming.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Milwaukee has put some thought into the ergonomics of this backpack sprayer. The harness system is well-designed, distributing the weight evenly across the shoulders and hips. There are also easy-carry handles on both the tank lid and base unit, which make transporting the sprayer more manageable. Despite these features, the overall weight still poses a challenge for prolonged use.

Durability and Maintenance

Durability is where this sprayer falls short. The tanks are prone to cracking and leaking, which is a significant concern when dealing with hazardous chemicals. I had to replace the tank multiple times, which is neither cost-effective nor convenient. Additionally, the wand and nozzle assembly are not as robust as I would have liked. The wand tends to leak, and the nozzle can become clogged, requiring frequent maintenance.

Customer Support

On the plus side, Milwaukee's customer support is responsive. When I encountered issues with leaking tanks, they replaced them free of charge. However, the process can be slow, and it's not ideal to have to deal with these problems in the first place. The nearest service center was also quite far from my location, adding to the inconvenience.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Interchangeable Tank Design: Makes it easy to switch between different chemicals.
• No Manual Pumping: Powered by M18 battery, eliminating the need for manual effort.
• Adjustable Pressure: Up to 120 PSI with a 5-mode adjustment knob.
• Good Ergonomics: Well-designed harness system that distributes weight evenly.
• Effective Performance: Consistent spray quality and good reach.

Cons:

• Leaking Issues: Tanks are prone to cracking and leaking, posing a safety hazard.
• Heavy: The unit is quite heavy, making extended use challenging.
• Reliability Issues: Inconsistent pump performance and frequent maintenance required.
• Customer Support: While responsive, the service process can be slow and inconvenient.

Final Thoughts

The Milwaukee SWITCH TANK 4-Gallon Backpack Sprayer has a lot of potential but falls short in critical areas. The concept of an interchangeable tank system is excellent, and the performance, when the unit is functioning correctly, is impressive. However, the durability issues, particularly with the leaking tanks, and the overall weight of the unit make it hard to recommend wholeheartedly.

If Milwaukee addresses these design flaws and improves the durability of the tanks, this sprayer could be a game-changer. Until then, I would advise caution. This sprayer might be suitable for those who are already invested in the Milwaukee M18 battery system and are willing to deal with potential maintenance issues. For others, there are more reliable options available on the market that offer better durability and ease of use.

In summary, while I appreciate the innovative features and performance capabilities of the Milwaukee SWITCH TANK 4-Gallon Backpack Sprayer, the durability issues and weight make it a less appealing choice for long-term use. If you can overlook these drawbacks, it’s a powerful tool that can get the job done efficiently, but be prepared for potential headaches along the way.