Wagner Control Pro 150 Review

Wagner control pro 150

Editor Rating: 4.6/5

Great Product

Wagner Control Pro 150

Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson

Last modified: Dec 1, 2023 @ 2:52 pm

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Wagner Pro 150 Review Summary:

Boasting a mighty flow rate of 0.29 gallons-per-minute — the Wagner Control Pro 150 is a tradesperson-grade sprayer designed to tackle immense painting projects.

This airless, floor-standing machine decreases overspray by 55 percent through its 515 HEA (high-efficiency airless) tip. Drawing paint through a suction tube directly into the pump — there’s no need for filling — simply attach to an original container or tub.

With 0.55 horsepower and five pressure settings, this machine can be utilized with unthinned mediums — including stains, oil, chalk, and latex-based paints.

Since all the ‘grunt’ is housed in a separate unit, the spray gun is lightweight and effortless to wield. Furthermore, its 25-foot hose offers extensive operating freedom.

The manufacturer indicates that this sprayer incorporates a pump that lasts up to three times longer than its closest competitors. And, as the fluid section is removable — it can be thoroughly cleaned post-project to extend the life of the machine.

The Pro 50 is Wagner’s mid-range HEA sprayer — being a step up from its Control Pro 130 model. Bordering on professional-grade — this isn’t a machine for the fainthearted DIYer, spraying novice, or those looking to complete small painting jobs. However, for mammoth projects such as complete home exterior recoating or basement renovations — it’s a powerful weapon in the serious home-improvers armory.

The Control Pro series replaces the discontinued Wagner Procoat line — featuring more aesthetically pleasing casings and improved efficiency over its predecessors.

Pros:

N
Affordable prosumer sprayer.
N
Lightweight detachable gun.
N
Reduces overspray by 55 percent.
N
Adjustable pressure settings.
N
25-foot hose.
N
Compatible with 2-in-1 paints, primers, oil, and enamel.
N
Ideal for massive projects.

Cons:

N
Loud operation.
N
Cleaning post-project is time-consuming.
N
Can be challenging to assemble for first-time use.

Features and Benefits of the Wagner Pro 150


The US-based Wagner Spraytech is renowned for its paint application power tools. Introducing the world’s first airless sprayer, the Whisker, in 1953 — many of its machines have gained legendary status.

Time to look in detail at the Pro 150 — and see whether it deserves to rank among the best of Wagner’s machines.

Suction Tube and Inlet Filter


If you’re a dedicated spraying-nerd — you know that refilling is an annoyance.

Many painting machines require you to decant your painting medium into a cup prior to use. On large projects, this is particularly a headache — no sooner have you got into the spraying ‘zone,’ and you have to stop your work to replenish the container.

Thankfully, the Pro 150 has a solution.

It incorporates a suction tube that you place directly into an original paint container — up to a capacity of five liters. By drawing directly from the paint tub — there’s no need for filling — saving you time and reducing mess and spillage.

Furthermore, the foot of this tube features an inlet filter — preventing any debris or dried material from entering the pump — leading to a better finish and extending the life of the machine.

Spray Gun With HEA 515 Tip


As the pump is located in a separate unit, and there’s no requirement for a paint container — the spray gun is extremely lightweight. An ergonomic handle increases comfort, while its sensitive trigger allows for precise delivery control.

The gun with the Pro 150 comes complete with an HEA 515 tip. Designed to reduce overspray and wastage — it produces a smooth finish without drips. Primarily, this tip is most suited to latex paints — although, it will provide satisfactory results for most mediums.

However, should your projects include significant work with sealers or stains — you can purchase replacement tips particular to these coating liquids (namely the 211 and 313 ends respectively).

Floor-Standing Pump


The powerful 0.55 horsepower pump is mounted on a floor stand — which allows you to operate the unit without crouching down — and also protects the ‘engine’ from suffering from water or detritus ingress — useful if you’re planning on working outside.

This stand also incorporates a handle — permitting you to easily relocate the entire machine. However, since the Pro 150 includes 25 feet of hose (upgradable to 75 feet, if you purchase an additional part) — theoretically, you shouldn’t need to move the unit that frequently.

The airless pump has five power settings. Not only does this enable you to ramp up the pressure for rapid coverage — but it also gives you the versatility to tailor the output to your chosen painting medium. Hence, for seriously viscous liquids, crank it up to the max — for thinner paints, take it down a step or two.

Hose Protector


Whether you’re a professional tradesperson — or just a hobbyist sprayer who loves your machine so much you’ll paint anything that doesn’t move — extended use can place stress on the unit.

While Wagner’s innovative pump promises to last three times longer than its competitors — some areas of the unit will undoubtedly suffer wear and tear.

One of the most common ‘weak’ points in airless sprayers is the area where the hose meets the pump unit. Accidental pulling and hose movement while spraying can lead to damage and leakage.

Hence, it’s pleasing to see that the Control 150 incorporates a stainless steel coiled hose protector. This strengthens the possible fault-point — elongating the life of this crucial component and providing peace of mind.

What Users Say About The Wagner Pro 150


For me, the Pro 150 is a prosumer-level machine that should provide rapid and effortless coverage on genuinely large-scale projects. However, having not used this machine for any significant amount of time — my experience is limited.

So, to see how this unit performs on a long-term basis — I sought out genuine Wagner Control Pro 150 paint sprayer reviews — to discover how the owners of this machine felt it performed.

Generally speaking, the opinions were positive. These paint-spraying enthusiasts praised the Pro 150’s smooth finish, welcomed its five power settings, and lauded its ability to spray directly from an original paint container without refilling.

Furthermore, experienced DIYers remarked upon how this unit was an improvement on the Wagner twin stroke 9146 — providing greater efficiency and significantly less overspray.

In truth, there were some words of discontent.

Some users indicated that the numerous components in the spray gun made post-job cleaning time-consuming. Furthermore, another common criticism was the challenging initial set-up of the machine — which includes having to whack the outlet valve with a mallet (yep, seriously).

However, these naysayers still agreed that the performance, speed of coverage, and even-finish provided by the Pro 150 was impressive. Click below to explore their views in greater depth.

Alternatives to Wagner Control Pro 150


Despite this unit’s numerous time and effort-saving features — it may be that this Wagner Control Pro 150 review is not exactly setting your spraying world alight.

So, if it doesn’t fit your requirements, take a look at these equally creditible alternatives.

Himalaya Airless Paint Sprayer


Himalaya Paint Sprayer

If you’re loving the features of the Pro 150 — but consider its premium price-point a barrier — check out this machine.

Like the Pro 150, the Himalaya has a suction tube with a filter, a 25-foot hose, and a floor stand-mounted pump — however, it’s significantly lighter on the wallet than the Wagner unit.

  • 3000 psi as opposed to the 1500 psi of the Pro 150.
  • More industrial-looking machine than the aesthetically designed Wagner.
  • 0.63 horsepower — greater than the 0.55 horsepower of the Pro 150.

Graco 17G180 Magnum ProX19


Graco 17G180
Want a true professional-grade machine instead of the prosumer Control 150? This unit could be the solution.

The airless Graco 17G180 has a cart-mounted pump for easy portability, adjustable pressure, and a proprietary InstaClean filter to prevent spray gun clogs and to stop debris from ruining your paintwork finish.

  • A 50-foot hose as opposed to the 25-feet of the Pro 150.
  • 3000 psi, the Control 150 offers 1500 psi.
  • Provides 0.38 gpm (gallons per minute), while the Pro 150 delivers 0.29 gpm.

Wagner FLEXiO 5000


Flexio 5000
Should you not have the need for the immense industry-like capacity of the Pro 150 — but still want a machine that can comfortably tackle interior and exterior home painting — this unit may appeal.

The FLEXiO 5000 is a turbine sprayer that incorporates a 1.5-quart cup — suitable for 120 square feet of coverage. Furthermore, it has an X-Boost feature that allows you to adjust the air pressure delivery.

  • Easier on the wallet than the Pro 150.
  • 11.5-foot hose, shorter than the 25-feet of the Pro 150.
  • Floor-standing turbine box doubles as a storage container.

Conclusion


If you’re looking for an airless prosumer-level machine that has the capacity to tackle the largest of projects — this sprayer may suit.

It’s 0.55 horsepower pump should make light work of most painting mediums — without thinning. Furthermore, with five levels of power adjustment — you can customize the delivery pressure to suit your base material and coverage demands.

Drawing directly from original paint containers — there’s no need to refill, and the incorporated inlet filter prevents detritus from ruining your fresh coats and protects the crucial pump.

While bridging the gap between DIY and industry-grade machines — novice users may find it challenging to operate — as it requires significant preparation and priming beforehand.

However, if you’re a seasoned sprayer looking to step up their painting game to pro-level — check out the Wagner Control Pro 150.

Wagner 150 FAQs

Q: What’s the Difference Between the Wagner Control Stainer 150 vs. Control Pro 150?

The Control Stainer 150 is a compact handheld machine that’s designed to tackle small projects such as addressing furniture and fences. The Control Pro 150 is an airless HEA unit that’s suited for heavy-duty applications such as a complete home respray.

Q: Are Wagner Twin Stroke 9150 Parts Compatible with the Control Pro 150?

While the Control Pro 150 shares some common components with its predecessor — the majority are not cross compatible. Hence, if your machine requires repair, always search for genuine Pro 150 components, not Wagner 9150 parts.

Q: How Much Does the Wagner Pro 150 Cost?

The Control Pro 150 is an airless HEA sprayer that bridges the gap between DIY models and pro-grade tools. To check out the current cost of the Wagner Pro 150.

Q: What’s the Difference Between the Control Pro and the Pro Coat Systems Line?

The Procoat Systems range included models such as the Wagner 9140s, Wagner 9145, Wagner 9146, Wagner 9150 and the Wagner Procoat 9175. These units have now been dropped by the manufacturer, and replaced by the more efficient HEA Control Pro line.

Q: Uses for the Wagner Pro 150?

The Control Pro 150 is designed to tackle lengthy and heavy-duty projects. As such, it’s suitable for painting the following:

  • Large decking areas.
  • Boats.
  • Outhouses.
  • Basements.
  • Extensive fencing.
  • Outdoor and indoor walls.
  • Sheds and workshops.
Q: Is the Control Pro 150 the Same as the Wagner 9150 Paint Sprayer?

No. The Wagner Twin Stroke 9150 has been discontinued and replaced by the Control Pro 150 — featuring a more modern design and less wastage.

Q: What Exterior House Paint Is Recommended for the Control Pro 150?

The Wagner Pro 150 is compatible with any exterior latex-based paint that needs a 0.015-inch tip or smaller.

Q: Is the Wagner Procoat Max the Same as the Control Pro 150?

No. In short — Procoat Inc is no more.
In 2019, the Procoat Wagner line was consigned to history, with the manufacturer deciding to concentrate on the improved Control Pro series instead.

This was a decision praised by savvy spraying enthusiasts, as the discontinued models had a tendency to overspray. Read any historic Wagner Procoat review — and you’ll see what I mean.

Q: Can You Use Solvent Based Stains with the Wagner Pro 150 Sprayer?

It’s fine to use solvent-based mediums with the Control Pro 150 — as long as the particular stain has a flashpoint of 100-degrees Fahrenheit or greater.

Q: Is the Control Pro 150 Part of the Wagner Procoat Airless Paint Sprayer Series?

No. The Wagner Procoat airless sprayer line — incorporating such models as the Wagner Procoat 9145 — has now been discontinued and replaced by the Control Pro machines.

These modern units offer greater efficiency and less overspray than the Wagner Procoat paint sprayer range provided.

Q: Can the Pro 150 Be Used With Paint That Has a Sand Texture Finish?

This HEA airless sprayer is ideal for spraying oil and water-based stains and paints. However, the manufacturer indicates that the Control Pro 150 isn’t suited to sand-textured coatings.

Q: Where Can I Find Wagner Procoat Parts?

The Wagner Procoat sprayer range has ceased — being replaced by the Control Pro series. However, you can still obtain Wagner Procoat Plus parts — and also the Wagner Procoat manual — from the manufacturer’s official website.