yea I've had experience. I go to school for paint and body and graduate in 2 months. My compressor plugs into the wall (its a craftsman). Ocassionally the circuit breaker shuts it off but luckily it hasn't shut off while I've been spraying. **Knock on wood**. I spray between 8-10 inches from the surface. It depends on how your spray gun is adjusted and your personal preference. I would definately recommend practicing on that hood you have.