Limescale is a common issue in homes with hard water, appearing as a chalky white residue. This buildup is primarily composed of calcium carbonate, a mineral left behind when water evaporates from the faucet surface. Over time, these mineral deposits can dull the finish of the faucet and impede water flow. The following methods provide simple, effective ways to dissolve this hard water residue using common household products.
Simple DIY Methods for Faucet Body Scale
The most effective way to treat scale on the main body and spout of a faucet is by using a mild acid to chemically break down the calcium carbonate. White distilled vinegar, which contains acetic acid, is an excellent choice for this task because it reacts directly with the calcium carbonate deposits.
To apply this method, saturate a paper towel or a soft cloth with undiluted white vinegar and wrap it directly around the scaled areas of the faucet spout. For the underside of the spout, a small plastic bag filled with vinegar can be secured around the faucet head with a rubber band, ensuring the affected area is fully submerged. Allowing the vinegar to remain in contact with the scale for at least two hours, or even overnight for heavy buildup, gives the chemical reaction sufficient time to occur.
After the soaking period, remove the cloth or bag and use a soft cloth or an old toothbrush to gently scrub away any remaining loosened residue. Rinse the faucet thoroughly with water afterward to remove the vinegar and dissolved residue. When using this acidic method, take care to prevent the vinegar from dripping onto surrounding surfaces, especially natural stone like marble or granite, as the acid can etch and damage these materials.
For lighter scale or as an alternative to vinegar, a paste made from baking soda and lemon juice can be used. Lemon juice contains citric acid, which also dissolves the mineral deposits, while the baking soda provides a gentle abrasive quality. Mix about three parts baking soda to one part lemon juice or water to create a thick paste, apply it to the scale, let it sit, and then scrub it off.
Deep Cleaning the Faucet Aerator
When water pressure from a faucet noticeably decreases, the problem is often concentrated in the aerator, the small screen assembly at the tip of the spout. The aerator’s fine mesh screen easily traps mineral deposits, leading to significant blockages. Cleaning this component requires temporary disassembly to ensure complete scale removal.
Begin by placing a towel over the drain to prevent small parts from falling away, then unscrew the aerator housing from the faucet spout. Most aerators are threaded and can be removed by hand, but if the scale has cemented the parts together, a pair of channel-lock pliers or an adjustable wrench may be necessary. If using a tool, wrap the aerator with a cloth or masking tape to protect the finish from scratches.
Once removed, separate the aerator into its individual components. Place all the disassembled parts into a small container filled with white vinegar and allow them to soak for several hours, or until the mineral deposits appear loosened. The soaking process ensures the acetic acid reaches all the fine mesh openings and crevices.
After soaking, use an old toothbrush to scrub each part, paying close attention to the screen to ensure all scale is removed. Rinse the components thoroughly with clean water. Inspect the rubber washer for any signs of damage, as this part creates a watertight seal. Finally, reassemble the aerator components in the correct order and twist the assembly back onto the faucet spout, tightening it only until it is finger-tight to avoid damaging the threads.
Preventing Future Limescale Buildup
Maintaining a clean faucet surface is the most straightforward way to slow the recurrence of mineral deposits. Since limescale forms when hard water evaporates, simply wiping the faucet dry after each use prevents the water from leaving behind its mineral content. Using a soft, absorbent cloth to quickly dry the spout and handles removes the water before the calcium carbonate can solidify.
Implementing a routine, light cleaning with an acidic solution can also keep scale from accumulating. A quick wipe-down with a cloth dampened with diluted white vinegar once a week can dissolve any nascent mineral film before it becomes a noticeable crust. This proactive maintenance is far easier than dealing with heavy, established scale.
For homes with extremely hard water, where scale buildup is a constant and rapid problem, a more comprehensive solution may be warranted. Installing a water softener system treats the water supply for the entire house by removing the calcium and magnesium ions that cause hardness. While a larger investment, a water softener provides a permanent solution that protects all plumbing fixtures and appliances from mineral damage.