How to Remove Iron Build-Up in Shower Heads
Lime, calcium and iron deposits can build up over time and clog your shower head. Rust from the iron deposits also discolors the shower head, the tub, and the walls of the shower stall. Remove iron deposits by investing a little extra time and effort to clean the shower head. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Cloth
- Pliers
- Pot
- White vinegar
- Toothbrush
- Wire, paper clip or safety pin
Instructions
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1
Wrap the chrome neck of the shower head with a piece of cloth where it connects to the pipe that supports it. The cloth protects the chrome from the grip of the pliers.
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2
Grip the connection point of the shower head over the cloth with a pair of pliers. Turn the connection counterclockwise until the shower head comes off.
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3
Fill a pot with enough white vinegar to immerse the shower head. Heat the vinegar to a low simmer.
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4
Dismantle the shower head into as many parts as possible. Many shower heads break down into several parts. Immerse the shower head and all its parts into the vinegar, and let them sit for 10 to 12 hours to loosen iron and other mineral deposits.
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5
Scrub all parts of the shower head with a toothbrush. Find a length of wire, a bent paperclip, or a safety pin that fits the holes in the shower head, and use it to clear every hole.
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6
Reassemble and reinstall the shower head. Run hot water through the shower head to wash out any iron and mineral residue left from the cleaning process.
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Tips & Warnings
Rusted iron pipes leading into the house may be the source of iron build-up.
Clean the shower head at a time that does not disrupt the family routine.
A large build-up of iron indicates a potentially larger problem with an iron-rich water supply that clogs and rusts pipes and appliances.
Install a filter that removes iron deposits from the incoming water supply to the hot water heater to control rust deposits in shower heads.
Make notes, if necessary, on how to reassemble the shower head as you dismantle it.
Soak plastic shower heads for 15 to 30 minutes in unheated white vinegar to prevent damage.
