How to Remove Scale Deposits
- 1). Determine exactly what kind of scale deposit you need to remove. This can be done by noting the color of the stain. Red and reddish brown stains are caused from rust. Green and blue-green stains are causes by copper and acidic water. Brown and black stains are caused by manganese. Hard-water marks and soap scum build up are caused by hard water.
- 2). Apply the proper cleaning agent according to the following guide:
For rust and iron stains, apply a paste of borax and lemon juice. Allow the paste to dry and rinse. Alternatively, scrub with trisodium phosphate dissolved in water according to the manufacturer's directions and rinse.
For copper and acid stains, use a solution of 1/2 water and 1/2 ammonia. Scrub and rinse. If using on a sink or bath or shower, run clean water through the drain for several seconds when finished.
For manganese stains, apply a paste of cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide. Allow the paste to dry and rinse.
For hard-water stains, apply a paste of white vinegar and baking soda. Allow the paste to dry and rinse. Alternatively, scrub the scale with 1 teaspoon of Calgon Bath Beads dissolved in 1 gallon of water, and then rinse. - 3). Prevent a build-up of scale deposits by applying the appropriate cleanser regularly to areas where scale is a recurring problem.
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