I don't know how you or others here process their HDU before painting. But for me, just vacuuming and compressed air is not enough to get the
sign completely free of dust. I take it outside and spray it really good with the water hose full blast to dislodge any lingering dust pockets. Then, either forced-air or vacuum it, or just let it air dry until the next day.
I've been using the FSC-88 WB primer from Coastal Enterprises for years. And for me, there is no substitute.