Steps to Cleaning Calcium Buildup in Your Pipes

The amount of minerals in the water supplies can lead to the accumulation of calcium in your pipes after some time. This means that your pipes will be clogged by the amount of buildup, which is troublesome, but can actually result in useless pipes and water damage problems if not taken care of properly. To help you get rid of the calcium in your pipes, this post will guide you through this maintenance task.

How to Clean Off Calcium Buildup in Your Pipes

Assess the Condition Your Pipes are In

The size of this problem can vary tremendously, which is why you first need to take a look around your pipes and determine just how big the clog is. Moreover, you should also pinpoint exactly where the clog is happening. Once you've inspected the area, think about the task at hand and decide if you'll be able to take on it. If the job seems more complicated than expected, or if you feel uncertain at all, it's better to call a professional plumber who can fix this issue.

Get the Supplies to Unclog Your Pipes

In this post, you'll find a couple of methods to deal with calcium buildup in your pipes. For each one, you'll require a certain set of tools, which is why it's a good idea to gather them round and have them handy. You'll need: vinegar, water, baking soda, hydrochloric acid, a wire brush, and a sponge. You're also advised to wear gloves when going through this task, since it can take a toll on your hands.

Shut the Water Supply

You probably don't want there to be a mess while you're trying to clean your pipes, do you? Not only can that be annoying, but it can also make the unclogging process much more complicated. If you'd like to avoid that, then be sure to cut off the water supply. Just make sure to locate the exact water regulating valve of the pipe you'll be working on, so you don't accidentally shut down an unrelated pipe.

Soak the Pipe in Vinegar and Water

This first cleaning method is a fairly easy one that you can go through by mixing a bit of vinegar with water. Once you have the mixture, submerge the pipe in it and allow it to soak for a few minutes so the calcium has a chance to break down. If this trick isn't going as well as you expected, then sprinkle baking soda to the mixture to increase its power. Again, wait for a bit while your pipes are being cleaned and unclogged. If your rusty, clogged pipe has betrayed you and has caused water damage to your home, rest assured that Unique Restoration DKI in Riverside County can be there to help you deal with the situation in an expert manner. Contact them at 800.845.1262 to request a free estimate on emergency property restoration in Riverside County.  

Bring Out the Big Guns

If the previous method didn't work as well as desired, you can try unclogging your pipes with diluted hydrochloric acid. However, know that you need to be very careful when dealing with this substance, as it is very abrasive. In fact, it is so harsh that you shouldn't go through this process if the pipes you're cleaning are meant to supply drinking water. You should also know that the acid can cause damage to your pipes, so don't overuse it.

Scrub the Residue Off

Whether you used vinegar/baking soda or hydrochloric acid to unclog your pipes, it's probable that you'll see some calcium residue around them afterwards. If that's the case, don't despair just yet. You can simply grab a wire brush or a sponge to finish taking all of the calcium off. Scrub the pipes hard to make them good as new after you're done with this maintenance task, and so they have better water delivery.

Solve this Issue Once and For All

Something very important to note in this situation, is that the cleaning methods offered in this post are only meant to be temporary solutions. After awhile, your pipes will get clogged once again. If you don't want this to be the case, you should consider getting a water system that will control the amount of minerals in its supply, so you can avoid calcium buildup as much as possible.

If Your Home is in Need of Professional Emergency Property Restoration in Riverside County

Remember that you can turn to Unique Restoration DKI in Riverside County if your home is suffering from water, smoke, fire, or mold damage. They have the expertise required to deal with those situations in an effective and timely manner. Call 800.845.1262 if you'd like a free estimate on professional emergency property restoration in Riverside County.