Protecting the Appearance of your Faucets and Water Fixtures

As a professional cleaning technician, I have often wondered how the faucets and drains in some homes seem to wear down faster than others. Of course the quality and price of these fixtures can fall into play, but that is not the biggest culprit. Come to find out, it is the temperature of the hot water.

Faucets and drains that are subjected to a higher heat temperature tend to age and wear down faster. Corrosive damage to faucets from excessively hot water often manifests as a combination of rust, mineral buildup (limescale), and pitting, particularly around the spout and handles. High-temperature water accelerates the oxidation process, causing metals like brass to corrode three to four times faster when heated, often turning into reddish-brown or green/blue stains.

Other results you may see in your own home:

1. The chrome plating may break down, exposing the brass underneath to further corrosion. I’ve seen this many times with bathtub faceplates, drains, and faucets. The chrome is crumbling apart.

2. Paint or finishes on the faucet may flake off, showing decay underneath. This is seen all the time with black bathroom fixtures. Once the paint starts peeling off the fixture continues to degrade.

3. Hot water causes minerals to solidify, leading to white, chalky, or hard crusty deposits of mineral and calcium buildup. The base of the faucet often accumulates hard water deposits, which can break through the finish.

The causes for hot water corrosion? 1. High hot water temperatures accelerate oxidation. 2. Higher temperatures can lower the pH of the water, making it more acidic and corrosive. 3. Poor ventilation. High humidity in bathrooms speeds up the corrosion process on the exterior of the fixtures.

How can we prevent damage and protect faucets and other fixtures? 1. Lower the temperature of your water heater to 120 to 130F. This will reduce the speed of corrosion. 2. Clean regularly with white vinegar to dissolve mineral deposits. Using a wire bristled brush will help remove some calcium buildup. 3. Install a water softener. This removes the heavy mineral content (calcium, magnesium, iron) that causes hard water issues.

I hope you find this article helpful. Knowing how to prevent damage and maintain the appearance of faucets and other fixtures protects the value of the home and your peace of mind. If you would like help keeping your home looking its best, contact Bright at Home Cleaning. “We Brighten Your Home and Free Up Your Time!”