Why is my hot melt glue gun dripping?
If glue runs from the nozzle with the trigger released, Reka names two causes: a worn or damaged nozzle, or a blocked vent valve on the lid. The vent usually blocks when a full gun is laid down, held level or tipped nozzle-up, so hot glue flows into the valve. Replace the nozzle or clean the vent. On a cartridge gun, a stuck cartridge piston can also make it leak.
Fix it
Burn risk: wear heat-resistant gloves and goggles.
- If the gun fell over or was laid down, do not press the trigger: it can pull glue into the vent.
- Stand it nozzle-down, switched on and heating, for 10 to 30 minutes depending on the glue, then check.
- Still dripping? Empty the gun, then switch it off, unplug it and, on an air-driven gun, disconnect the compressed air. Take the lid off while it is still warm.
- Soften the glue in the lid with a hot air gun if needed, and clean it out.
- Replace the seals and silencer if needed, then refit the lid.
- Cartridge guns: a stuck piston also leaks, so replace the cartridge.
Stop it happening again
- Keep the nozzle pointing down, always.
- Never lay the gun down while the glue is liquid.
- Keep the nozzle clear.
- On a spring balancer, use Reka’s suspension #10436.
- Using a refillable cartridge as a tank? Fit lid set #2658.
- The one-use piston in cartridge #7099 also keeps glue out of the vent.
Parts
Nozzle · SEV repair set #2621 · O-ring #2695 (9 × 1.5 mm) · complete lid #895. See spares and accessories or the nozzle finder.
Questions.
A little leaking while heating up: is that a fault?
No. The glue expands as it warms, so a little may seep out.
Can I keep using a dripping gun?
Stop, don't press the trigger, and follow the steps on this page.
Still stuck? Tell us.
Send the gun model, serial number (on the nameplate), purchase date and a photo or short video. We will tell you the fix, send the part, or arrange the repair.
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