How to prevent limescale

When hard water evaporates, it leaves behind a hard, chalky deposit that builds up where water is left standing or heated. This flaky deposit is mainly comprised of calcium and magnesium. When there’s limescale buildup in your home, you’ll first notice it around the faucets, as well as in your shower. Read on to find out how to prevent limescale.

What is limescale, and is it bad for you?

Limescale, essentially, is the result of a buildup of calcium and magnesium minerals in hard water. It’s either grey or white, with a chalky texture.

If ignored, limescale can quickly build up. It gets more challenging to remove once it hardens and thickens. Aside from looking unsightly, limescale can also lead to several issues, so you’d want to contact a professional for limescale treatment ASAP.

In small quantities, limescale doesn’t have a significantly bad impact on your body, even if it may taste odd if it flakes off into your drink. It won’t directly affect your health.

However, the uneven formation of limescale is the ideal surface for bacteria to attach to. When you see any red or black slimy build-up in your bathroom, it means more bacteria have colonized the surface, including E.coli and some species of the Genus Legionella, which causes Legionnaires disease.

Timescale buildup occurring in your water heater is a different story. It can disrupt water flowing in your pipes, resulting in corrosion that wears down the piping faster.

Aside from restricting water flow, it may cause blockages as well. This can increase the cost of maintenance, but reduce the efficiency of your system.

How to prevent limescale

1. Cleaning regularly and keeping things in the bathroom and kitchen dry will prevent limescale. This will stop water from evaporating so it doesn’t leave mineral deposits in the process. Cleaning at least once a week will prevent bacterial build-up, too.

2. Cleaning the bathroom and kitchen becomes easier if you install a water softener or a water conditioner. If you reside in a hard water area, this investment is worth considering.

Water softeners remove the calcium and magnesium minerals from your water supply, then pass a saltwater solution to detach these minerals.

Just see to it that the water softener has enough salt to do the job. Checking on it once a month should be enough.

Alternatively, you may also use a salt-free water softener, which neutralizes calcium and magnesium to keep them from attaching to surfaces.

3. One of the most effective ways to get rid of limescale from the sink, bathroom, and shower is using 1 part white vinegar and 2 parts bicarbonate of soda. Make a paste and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it for 10 minutes before scrubbing off with the abrasive side of a sponge.

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Solving limescale and hard water issues is what we do best. CONTACT US and our experienced and knowledgeable specialists will provide the best limescale solution based on your needs and budget.