What should I do to make my taps and mixers last longer ?
By
Patrick Gordon - consultant
TECHNICAL 35
As with any other type of product , maintenance is the most effective way to prolong the life of anything . The following is advice that any plumber can give their clients .
The best way to ensure longevity of any item is to firstly adhere to the manufacturer ’ s instructions .
Taps and mixers should always be installed onto a balanced water system . This ensures the minimum amount of unnecessary wear on the internal mechanisms . A balanced water installation also ensures that no large dirt particles find their way into your taps and mixers .
Once you have finished the installation , make sure that you clean the protective finish on the outside of the unit with a soft cloth and a mild detergent . Never use aggressive chemicals and / or abrasive cleaners . Once the surface has been cleaned seal the surface with any waxy protective product . I normally recommend a spray type furniture polish . By doing this all the miniscule pores in the finished layer are sealed and it produces a surface that resists any dirt or limescale buildup .
It is a good idea to regularly , once a week , repeat this sealing procedure .
Apply the vinegar liberally without rubbing it in . Leave it on the affected surface for a half day . If you see that that the vinegar has evaporated apply some more . Now you need to wet a soft cloth with some more vinegar and rub the area to remove the dissolved limescale . Depending on the severity of the build-up you may have to repeat this step .
Once you have removed all the limescale , wash the area with a mild detergent . Dry the surface that you have prepared and spray on the wax-based sealer . Leave it for a couple of minutes and buff with a clean , soft cloth . You will be amazed at the result . Here is an example of before and after pictures :
Make sure to regularly clean your taps and mixers , or any similar coated surface , to maintain the original lustre . PA
For any further information on this topic please contact the writer : PA Gordon on patrickg @ splashworks . co . za .
Do not despair if your tap / mixer already has limescale buildup on the surface . To remove the limescale you will need to dissolve it with a mild acidic product such as vinegar or lemon juice .
All Images by Splashworks
Tap with limescale before cleaning . Nice clean tap after cleaning .
February 2025 Volume 30 I Number 12 www . plumbingafrica . co . za