How to Flush Pipes Clogged With Calcium

Vinegar unclogs calcium-ridden flush pipes and cleans away the calcium deposits around faucets.

Calcium is a naturally occurring mineral in water in many areas. As the water moves through pipes the calcium is deposited on the inside of the pipe and eventually builds up, slowing or even stopping the water flow. Preventative maintenance with either vinegar or commercial calcium removers once every quarter keeps the problem at bay, and can solve the problem when it occurs.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Commercial calcium remover such as Calci-Solve, Dagger, Sizzle or C.L.R.

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Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply that serves the calcium-clogged drain pipe.

2. Pour two cups of 20 percent vinegar solution down the drain. White household vinegar at 5 to 7 percent is also acceptable but will work slower and not as effectively. Alternately, follow the directions on the particular commercial calcium remover as you flush it down the drain into the pipes.

3. Wait 12 to 24 hours and turn the water back on. Try to flush the pipe with water. If it continues to run slowly then try the treatment again. If the water still runs slowly after another 12 hours it may be a different problem than calcium buildup.

Tips & Warnings

• Installing a water softener may be a long-term solution if calcium deposits are a recurring problem.

References

• The Vinegar Institute: Uses & Tips
• The Plumbing Info: Plumbing Chemicals Guide