White plaque on bathroom taps: Why it appears

03.06.2023 05:20
Updated: 13.05.2024 21:25

The white spots on bathroom taps and showers can be annoying for people who like their houses to be clean and nice.

Even if you take good care of your house, these spots might continue to appear, making your bathroom look more dirty.

But what is that and why it appears?

Hard Water

Hard water refers to water that contains high concentrations of minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. 

When hard water flows through taps, it leaves behind mineral deposits on surfaces over time. 

tap water
Photo:Pixabay

The higher the mineral content in the water, the more pronounced the buildup of limescale.

Evaporation

When water droplets on the tap surface evaporate, the minerals dissolved in the water are left behind as solid deposits. 

This gradual accumulation leads to the formation of the white, chalky limescale residue.

Temperature Effects

Hot water tends to exacerbate the buildup of limescale. 

As water is heated, it causes the minerals to precipitate and settle on surfaces more rapidly than with cold water. 

That's why you may notice more limescale buildup on hot water taps or in areas where hot water is frequently used, such as showers or kitchen sinks.

Also, that's why taps with cold water don't always have these stains.
 

Kate Yakimchuk Author: Kate Yakimchuk Editor internet resource


Content
  1. Hard Water
  2. Evaporation
  3. Temperature Effects