Actually, anything is a pain to clean ... even the HVLPs. I hate having to put storage fluid in them .... and I only use mine about every other year ... so, storage fluid it is.

I had an airless setup, when I used to build and finish cabs ... but, I never really did it for making money ... just did it to do it, which EPA requirements and reformulation of alkyd stuff, ventilation in my spray room ... Enough for this old man (and that was years ago)

It just was time to put that stuff into storage. However, I did find a good home for the sprayer .... gave it to a guy who I don't think has ever used it. That's almost like me keeping it.

I've never used a preformed pan (shower), always Portland, sand, water, and membrane. I am not fond of that task.