Faucets are essential to your home's plumbing system, as you depend on them to deliver a steady supply of clean water. However, many homeowners don’t pay attention to them until an issue presents itself. Fortunately, a little care and upkeep are all it takes to prevent most faucet problems. Below, discover some easy maintenance tips to ensure they remain reliable for years to come.

How to Maintain Your Faucets

1. Clean Them Daily

Incorporate this step into your nightly routine, such as after the dinner dishes are washed or before going to bed. Most faucets will stay sparkling if you rub them down with dishwashing liquid and warm water on a soft cloth. Wipe it clean with a dry cloth, giving it a little polish in the process. It will likely take a few minutes to do all your faucets, and you'll enjoy a consistent bright shine whenever you use them.

2. Replace the Aerator

The aerator is a plumbing device inside the faucet that injects air into the water, helping to maintain a strong and smooth water flow. Keep an eye on the stream of water coming out of your faucets. If the stream is only coming out on one side, or the water flow has reduced to a trickle, the aerator needs replacing. Installation is typically as easy as unscrewing the old one and replacing it with a new one. 

3. Remove Deposits & Soap Scum Buildup

If your plumbing has hard water, your faucets will accumulate mineral deposits over time. Also, soap scum can easily get rubbed off onto faucets and create a thick layer of buildup. Both of these types of grime are difficult to remove. A few times a month, scrub them down with a 1:1 ratio of white vinegar and hot water. This mixture can cut through even the toughest scum and dissolve mineral deposits. But don't use it on a daily basis; vinegar is still an acid, and repeated use could cause eat away at the faucet.

If you notice issues with your faucets, a plumber can help. Bernie Buchner, Inc. has been providing plumbing services to La Crosse County, WI, since 1952. They offer residential repairs and installations, as well as commercial HVAC services. Call (608) 784-9000 or visit their website to schedule repairs, and text JOIN to (608) 480-8709 to receive text message updates.