Do I need a primer for this color?
Some colors, especially yellows, reds and oranges, and other dark accent colors, are considered to be “poor hiding” colors. That means they usually need a primer because, despite their strong, vibrant color, they’re not good at hiding the color they’re covering.
Using a grey (under dark colors) or tinted (under light colors) primer can help you avoid having to apply multiple coats of paint. A tinted primer helps prepare the existing surface for color. You’ll typically only need to apply two coats of paint over tinted primer to get that perfect result. ECOS colors that benefit from additional coats or a tinted primer are marked in our color library (select Fan Deck View) with a roller icon
Still trying to figure out if you need a primer? Click here to print a zig-zag patterned card you can use to test your paint sample.
Please note: this guidance is specifically related to color selection. We recommend using one of our primers if painting over a higher gloss finish, a darker color, or applying an accent color, or if applying over bare or heavily sanded surfaces.
Painting Tips to Improve “Hide"

- Choose a high-quality paint like ECOS.
- Combine multiple cans of the same color before painting.
- Stir paint thoroughly before painting.
- Don’t thin or dilute the paint with water.
- Use the correct primer as described above, or when you’re applying paint over a porous surface.
- Spread the paint evenly and smoothly.
- Allow the full drying time between coats.
- Use high-quality brushes, rollers, and tools.
Anti-Formaldehyde Radiator (AFR) Paint
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Anti-Formaldehyde Radiator (AFR) paint is ideal for coating hot water radiators prior to painting. This paint absorbs VOCs, including formaldehyde (which can off-gas from conventional central heating radiators) before they escape into the air. Odorless, non-toxic, and VOC-free. Not suitable for steam or electric storage radiators....More Details
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Steps to Purchase
Colors on screen do not necessarily provide an accurate representation. Getting a sample or free card is recommended prior to ordering.
2) Choose Quantity: Calculate Coverage
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ECOS Interior Anti-Formaldehyde Radiator (AFR) paint is ideal for coating hot water radiators prior to painting. ECOS Interior AFR paint adsorbs VOCs, including formaldehyde (which can off-gas from conventional central heating radiators) before they escape into the air. Not suitable for steam, or electric storage radiators which run at even higher temperatures and require specialized finishes.
- ✔ Zero VOC1
- ✔ No Odor2
- ✔ Non-Toxic3
- 1Conforms to CDPH 01350 (VOC emissions test taken at 14 days).
- 2No traditional paint (polyurethane) odor, which can cause headaches, nausea, and respiratory issues.
- 3Conforms to ASTMD-4236, specifically concerning oral toxicity, skin irritation and respiratory effects.
Click buttons below to download data sheets
AFR SDSClick to download
AFR CDPHClick to download
AFR Application InstructionsClick to download
Anti-Formaldehyde Radiator (AFR) Paint
Add all surfaces to be painted then remove openings, like doors and windows
Coverage Calculator
Product Label | |
Preparation | Good surface preparation is vital for the perfect finish. Surfaces should be clean, dry, and free from any dirt, dust, or contaminants. Repair any cracks, holes, or imperfections. Sand glossy surfaces with fine grit sandpaper first to ensure good adhesion. Before painting, clean stubborn areas with mild detergent, and remove any loose, or peeling paint, then rinse and dry thoroughly before painting. ECOS Paint is self-priming on most properly prepared surfaces, but we recommend using one of our primers if painting over a higher gloss finish, a darker color, or applying an accent color. |
Application and Clean Up | Stir well before use. If using multiple containers of the same color, intermix them all to ensure color uniformity. Can be applied using a high quality synthetic brush, rolled using a shed-resistant 3/8” to 1/2” roller cover, or sprayed using an airless sprayer with 0.015” to 0.017” tip at 1600 to 1800 psi. Do not apply in temperatures below 50oF. For best results, always apply two coats of paint. Dries to the touch in 30 to 60 minutes. Recommended wait time between coats is 2 to 4 hours. High humidity and cool temperatures may result in longer dry and recoat times. Do not thin the paint. Clean up with warm soapy water. |
Coverage | 500 sq. ft. per gallon |
Recommended coats | 3 |
Product Code | 700355463627 |
Select a Color
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- AChoose an ECOS color by name
- BBrowse our colors
- CRequest a color match
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