Anything from food and grease to paper products and hair can clog drains and wreak havoc on your pipes. But one thing you probably never think about is calcium build-up in your pipes. While most objects can be easily removed, it's not easy to remove or fix pipes with significant calcium buildup. Here’s how you can resolve your pipe issues and help prevent them from occurring in the first place.
The Most Common Cause of Calcium Build-up
Does your home use “hard water”—or water with high mineral content? Then magnesium, calcium, and potassium particles are continually making their way through your pipe work. While they don’t pose an immediate threat to your pipes or your health, over time these minerals can build up and cause blockages and corrosion.
How To Remove Calcium Deposits From Pipes
Removing calcium buildup in drain pipes can be as easy as pouring some CLR or a combination of vinegar and baking soda into them. These short-term solutions work for most deposit build-up but do not protect your pipes in the long run.
If you have buildup in your water supply lines—you’ll want to avoid using harsh chemicals. Instead, baking soda and vinegar are safe and effective at breaking down calcium buildup. The drawbacks to this method are that you need a significant amount of vinegar and baking soda, and you may have a lingering vinegar taste in your water for a while.
Long-Term Solutions for Calcium Build-up on Pipes
A proactive approach to pipe maintenance can help you save time, money, and stress. Check out these long-term solutions.
PEX Piping
PEX piping is made from plastic. Installing it can help prevent limescale, especially when compared to copper piping.
Use a Water Softener System
Water softener systems can reduce or remove the amount of hard minerals in your water before they have a chance to build up in your pipes.
3 Benefits of Having a Water Softener
Saves Money
Installing a water softener doesn’t just help prevent calcium buildup in drain pipes—it can save you money on future repair costs.
Cleaner Hair and Softer Skin
Hard water carries minerals that can cause the loss of natural oils in your skin and hair. But installing a water softener can help prevent these minerals from reaching your skin and hair, leaving both softer and cleaner.
Brighter and Softer Clothes
Hard water on your clothes can leave a deposit on them that, over time, can turn clothes harder and dull. A water softener can help preserve the brightness of your clothing and leave them soft to the touch.
Our Plumbing Repair & Installation Services
For all the plumbing issues you can’t resolve yourself, turn to the local plumbing experts at Stephens Plumbing. Our team of plumbers in Aurora, IL and other areas offer exceptional emergency plumbing repair services. Our technicians provide various types of plumbing services such as water heater repair, gas line replacement, sump pump repair, and water line installation. Whether your pipes are clogged, backed up, have calcium buildup, or are in need of repair—you can trust our team to get it done right. Give our team a call by phone at (630) 968-0783 or book an appointment online if you're experiencing any issues and we’ll have a team out to you in no time.
Schedule An Appointment With Our Team
Call Us: (630) 968-0783
If you need assistance with damaged pipes in your home, book an appointment with our team to receive assistance.