Descaling Your Boiling Water Tap: Keeping it Hot and Healthy
Hard water can wreak havoc on your boiling water tap, leading to limescale buildup and reduced efficiency. Regular descaling is essential to maintain its performance and lifespan. Here’s a safe and effective guide to descale your tap, without using white vinegar.
Safety First:
- Turn off the hot water supply: Locate the isolation valve under your sink for the hot water line feeding the tap. Turn it clockwise until it stops completely to shut off the water supply.
- Unplug the tap (if applicable): Some boiling water taps have an electrical heating element. If yours does, unplug it from the mains power supply before proceeding.
- Let the tap cool down: Wait for any remaining hot water in the tank to cool completely before starting the descaling process.
Descaling Methods:
There are two main methods for descaling your boiling water tap, both using commercially available solutions:
1. Using a Descaling Solution:
- Purchase a descaling solution: Look for a descaling solution specifically designed for boiling water taps. These solutions are formulated to be safe and effective for your tap’s materials.
De-scaling the Tank:
There are two approaches depending on your tap model:
-
Option 1: Descaling with Tank in Place: This method works if your tap allows access to the tank without removing it. Consult your user manual for specific instructions. Typically, you’ll find a dedicated port for descaling. Pour the descaling solution into the designated port and leave it to sit for at least an hour (refer to user manual for recommended duration).
-
Option 2: Descaling with Tank Removed: If your user manual allows for removing the tank, follow these steps:
- Drain the tank: Locate the drain valve on the tank (refer to user manual) and open it completely to drain any remaining water.
- Detach the tank: Consult your user manual for detailed instructions on detaching the tank from the tap unit.
- Fill the tank with descaling solution: Fill the detached tank with the descaling solution and let it soak for at least an hour (refer to user manual for recommended duration).
De-scaling the Tap Spout:
- While the tank is descaling, remove the tap spout (refer to user manual for instructions).
- Submerge the spout in the descaling solution you prepared earlier in a jug.
- Let the spout soak for 15-30 minutes.
Flushing the System:
- Reattach the tank (if removed): Once the descaling period is complete, reattach the tank to the tap unit following the user manual instructions.
- Turn on the hot water supply: Slowly turn on the isolation valve under the sink to restore the hot water supply.
- Flush the tap: Open the hot water tap and run the hot water for at least 5 minutes, or until the water runs clear. This will flush out the descaling solution and any dislodged limescale.
- Repeat flushing with cold water: Once the hot water runs clear, switch to cold water and flush the tap for another 2-3 minutes to remove any residual descaler.
2. Using a Descaling Kit (if applicable):
Some boiling water tap manufacturers offer descaling kits specifically designed for their models. These kits may include a dedicated descaling solution, hoses, and adapters for easier descaling. Follow the detailed instructions provided in the kit for a hassle-free descaling process.
Important Tips:
- Always refer to your user manual: For specific descaling instructions and safety precautions, consult your boiling water tap’s user manual before attempting to descale it.
- Never use harsh chemicals: Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the tap’s finish.
- Frequency of descaling: The frequency of descaling depends on your water hardness. In areas with hard water, you might need to descale every 3-6 months. In softer water areas, descaling once a year might suffice.
By following these steps and considering the tips, you can effectively descale your boiling water tap using a safe and readily available descaling solution, ensuring it continues to provide you with steaming hot water for years to come.