If you notice some bluish-green gunk on your faucet, then you have a problem with limescale. That limescale, or scale deposit, is there because you live in an area with hard water.

“Hard water is water that has high mineral content (in contrast with “soft water”). Hard water is formed when water percolates through deposits of limestone, chalk or gypsum[1] which are largely made up of calcium and magnesium carbonates, bicarbonates and sulfates.” – Wikipedia.org

Limescale isn’t harmful, but it can be unsightly. It can also build up on pipes and reduce water flow. If you want to remove limescale, you can use a commercial cleaner or clean it with vinegar or lemon juice.

The best way to prevent limescale buildup, is to install a water softener or filter.

What Is Lime Scale?

Limescale is a white, chalky substance that can build up on surfaces due to the presence of hard water. Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can come from a variety of sources, including limestone deposits in the ground or from your plumbing.

Limescale can be unsightly and difficult to clean. It can also cause problems with your plumbing by clogging pipes and making it difficult for water to flow freely. If left untreated, limescale can eventually lead to leaks.

If you have limescale buildup, you’ll need to use a special cleaner to remove it. You can find these cleaners at most hardware stores. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner, as they can be very acidic and can damage your surfaces if used improperly. Once you’ve removed the lime scale, be sure to take steps to prevent it from returning.

Does Georgia Have A Problem With Limscale?

Georgia has a moderate problem with limescale. This is because the state’s water hardness is between 3 and 4 grains per gallon. While this isn’t as high as some other states, it can still lead to some limescale buildup on surfaces over time.

Our recommendation is to keep to a cleaning schedule to prevent the problem from taking hold in the first place.

What Are The Consequences Of Having Limescale?

Limescale is not just unsightly, it can also be damaging to your plumbing. Over time, limescale deposits can build up and restrict water flow through your pipes. This can lead to reduced water pressure and higher water bills. In extreme cases, limescale buildup can cause pipes to burst.

If you have hard water, it’s important to take steps to prevent limescale buildup. A water softener is the most effective way to reduce or eliminate hard water minerals. Talk to your local plumber about the best way to soften your water and keep your surfaces limescale free.

Disadvantages Of Hard Water Include:

Besides the issue of limescale, there are other disadvantages to living with hard water.

  • Items washed in hard water can appear dingy and feel stiff and be left with detergent residue.
  • Pipes, faucets and heating systems can be clogged and affected by limescale which increases your energy bills.
  • Showering and bathing can leave residue of soap on your body which can clog and irritate your skin.
  • Can leave spots and a white cloudy residue on dishes and glasses after being cleaned in the dishwasher.

How Do I Clean The Green Stuff On My Faucet?

If you already have limescale deposits on your faucet, there are a few ways to clean them off. Vinegar is a popular choice because it’s effective and inexpensive. Just soak a cloth in vinegar and wrap it around the affected area. Let it sit for an hour or two, then scrub the limescale away with a brush.

Another option is to use a product called CLR, which is specifically designed to remove limescale. It comes in a spray bottle and you just spray it on and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off. Be careful not to get either of these solutions on your skin, as they can be irritating.

The best (but most expensive) solution to fixing problems with hard water is to install a water softener system. But of course, this is costly. The cost of water softeners differs. They can range from $400.00 to $3000.00 so take some time to decide what you can afford and which type will work for you.

Know that the water softener system will not only keep calcium stains at bay, they will save your pipes and it will help to save everything in your houses that uses water. Your washing machine, your dishwasher and your toilets and maybe even your skin!

How Do I Keep My Faucets From Corroding?

There are a few ways to prevent limescale buildup. One is to use a limescale remover (like CLR) on a regular basis. These can be found at most hardware stores. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner, as they can be very acidic and can damage your surfaces if used improperly. Once you’ve removed the limescale, be sure to take steps to prevent it from returning.

As we mentioned before, another way to prevent limescale buildup is to install a water softener. This will remove the minerals that cause scale buildup in the first place. If you have hard water, a water softener is likely a good investment for your home. Talk to your local plumber about the best way to soften your water and keep your surfaces limescale free.

If you have any questions about cleaning your faucets or are having some problems with it, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-443-8229. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.