Summary for painting interior plastic a/c cover Discussion
painting interior plastic a/c cover is possible only if the plastic will accept coating. Richard McFarland asked how to improve the appearance of a yellowed plastic cover on a never-used Goodman hi-wall split air conditioner. The answerer noted that the key issue is the plastic type: some plastics paint well, while others do not. He suggested it might be PP (polypropylene) or ABS, with ABS being more paint-friendly. He also said yellowing is often caused by UV exposure. As a quick test, he advised trying a little nail varnish remover on an inconspicuous spot: if it attacks the plastic, that is a good sign it may be paintable; if it does not, painting may not be worthwhile. The advice is cautious rather than definitive because the exact plastic was not identified.
Q. Bought an older model (never used still in box) Hi-wall split Goodman Air Conditioner. The plastic cover on the inside unit has yellowed due to packaging? How can I paint it to improve the appearance of this NEW/NEVER used appliance?
Thank you,
Richard McFarland
Home owner – Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, USA
2003
A. Richard.
Whereas some plastics take kindly to painting, some don’t !
You haven’t indicated what type of plastic this lid is made from. It could be PP (Polypropylene) but I hope it isn’t ..or ABS which lends itself to painting. There are many more plastics but I’d bet it’s one of those.
When (some) plastics yellow, it’s because of the affect of UV, i.e., sunlight in particular.
Anyhow, try some of your wife’s nail varnish remover … and if that affects/attacks the plastic, GOOD … then it can be painted … but if it doesn’t, it’s probably not worth bothering about.
Freeman Newton [deceased] (It is our sad duty to advise that Freeman passed away
April 21, 2012. R.I.P. old friend).
2003