If you’ve ever wondered why people recommend spraying WD-40 up a faucet, you’re not alone. This peculiar trick has become surprisingly popular on cleaning forums and YouTube tutorials. But does it actually work?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the reasons behind this unusual hack and whether or not it’s worth trying in your own home.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Spraying a light mist of WD-40 up your faucet can help loosen limescale and mineral deposits that have built up over time. This can improve water flow and prevent annoying drips. However, it’s just a temporary fix and works better for mild buildup.

For severe clogs, a stronger descaling solution is better.

What Is WD-40 and What Does It Do?

WD-40 is a versatile multi-purpose product that has been around for decades. It was first developed in 1953 by a small company called Rocket Chemical Company. The product quickly gained popularity for its effectiveness in loosening rusted parts and preventing corrosion.

Today, WD-40 is used by millions of people worldwide for a wide range of applications.

Brief History of WD-40

In the early 1950s, a group of scientists at Rocket Chemical Company set out to develop a rust-prevention solvent and degreaser for use in the aerospace industry. After 40 attempts to create the perfect formula, they finally succeeded and named their creation “Water Displacement, 40th Formula” or WD-40.

The product was initially used to protect the outer skin of the Atlas missile from rust and corrosion.

Soon after, the company realized that WD-40 had many more potential uses beyond aerospace. They started selling it to the general public, and its popularity grew rapidly. Today, WD-40 is a household name and can be found in almost every garage, toolbox, and maintenance closet.

Main Ingredients and Properties

WD-40 is made up of a mixture of chemicals, including petroleum-based oil, solvents, and various additives. The exact composition of the product is a closely guarded trade secret, but it is known to contain a small amount of mineral oil, which gives it its lubricating properties.

One of the key properties of WD-40 is its ability to displace water. This makes it an excellent tool for preventing rust and corrosion. When sprayed on metal surfaces, WD-40 forms a thin protective barrier that repels moisture and keeps the metal from coming into contact with water.

It also helps to remove moisture from electrical contacts, preventing short circuits and improving conductivity.

Common Household Uses

WD-40 has a vast range of household uses, making it an essential item in many homes. Some of its common applications include:

Lubricating squeaky hinges, locks, and other moving parts
Loosening rusted bolts and screws
Removing sticky residue and adhesives
Protecting tools and equipment from rust and corrosion
Displacing moisture from electrical connections
Removing crayon marks from walls
Polishing stainless steel and other metal surfaces

These are just a few examples of how WD-40 can be used around the house. Its versatility and effectiveness have made it a go-to product for many household tasks.

If you want to learn more about WD-40 and its uses, you can visit the official WD-40 website at www.wd40.com.

How Mineral Buildup Occurs in Faucets

Mineral buildup is a common issue that affects the efficiency and performance of faucets. Over time, minerals such as calcium and magnesium can accumulate inside the faucet, causing various problems. Understanding how mineral buildup occurs is essential in finding effective solutions to ensure the smooth functioning of your faucet.

Hard water and limescale explained

One of the main contributors to mineral buildup in faucets is hard water. Hard water contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. As the water flows through the plumbing system and reaches the faucet, these minerals can start to deposit on the internal surfaces of the faucet, forming a hard, crusty substance known as limescale.

The more minerals present in the water, the faster limescale can accumulate.

According to a study conducted by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), approximately 85% of homes in the United States have hard water. This statistic highlights the prevalence of hard water and the potential for mineral buildup in faucets.

How flow gets obstructed over time

As limescale continues to build up inside the faucet, it can obstruct the flow of water. The narrow passages within the faucet, such as aerators and valves, are particularly susceptible to blockage. As a result, the water pressure may decrease, and the flow can become uneven or even completely blocked in severe cases.

This can be frustrating and inconvenient, especially when trying to carry out everyday tasks such as washing dishes or brushing teeth.

Signs of clogged faucet aerators

Faucet aerators are commonly affected by mineral buildup due to their small size and intricate design. These small mesh screens located at the end of the faucet help regulate water flow and reduce splashing. However, when mineral deposits accumulate on the aerator, it can cause a range of issues:

Reduced water flow: Mineral buildup can restrict the water flow through the aerator, resulting in a weak stream of water.
Erratic water spray: A clogged aerator can cause the water to spray in different directions, making it difficult to control.
Water splashing: When the water pressure is affected by mineral buildup, it can lead to excessive splashing and mess around the sink area.
Strange noises: As water tries to pass through the obstructed aerator, it may create unusual noises such as gurgling or whistling.

To prevent or address these issues, it is important to regularly clean and maintain your faucet, especially the aerators, to remove any mineral buildup that may have occurred.

For more information on water hardness and its impact on faucets, you can visit USGS’s Water Science School website.

Why WD-40 Can Help Clean Faucet Deposits

Have you ever wondered why people recommend using WD-40 to clean faucet deposits? Well, there are a few reasons why this versatile product can be effective in tackling stubborn buildup and improving the performance of your faucet.

Penetrating oils loosen buildup

One of the key reasons why WD-40 is effective in cleaning faucet deposits is because it contains penetrating oils. These oils are designed to seep into tight spaces and break down stubborn grime and mineral deposits.

When sprayed into a faucet, the penetrating oils can help loosen the buildup, making it easier to remove.

According to a study conducted by WD-40, their product’s penetrating oils have been shown to dissolve rust and other deposits, helping to restore the flow of water in faucets. This makes WD-40 a popular choice for homeowners looking to improve the functionality of their faucets without resorting to harsh chemicals.

Light lubricant prevents sticking

In addition to its ability to break down buildup, WD-40 also acts as a light lubricant. This can help prevent faucets from sticking or becoming difficult to turn. By spraying WD-40 into the faucet mechanism, you can ensure smooth operation and extend the lifespan of your faucet.

It is important to note that WD-40 is not a long-term lubricant, but rather a temporary solution. For a more permanent fix, it is recommended to consult a professional plumber or consider replacing the faucet if it is severely damaged.

Temporary fix but useful for mild clogs

While WD-40 can be a helpful tool in cleaning faucet deposits, it is important to understand its limitations. WD-40 is not a substitute for regular maintenance or professional plumbing services. It is best used as a temporary fix for mild clogs or buildup.

If you are experiencing severe clogs or persistent faucet issues, it is always recommended to seek the assistance of a professional plumber. They have the expertise and tools necessary to address more complex plumbing problems.

How to Use WD-40 on a Faucet Correctly

Turn off water supply and disconnect hoses

Before applying WD-40 to your faucet, it is essential to turn off the water supply and disconnect any hoses connected to the faucet. This will prevent any water leakage and ensure that you can work on the faucet without any interruptions.

It is always better to be safe than sorry, so take the time to properly shut off the water supply and remove any hoses.

Disassemble aerator if possible

If your faucet has an aerator, it is recommended to disassemble it before using WD-40. The aerator is a small device located at the end of the faucet spout, and it can often become clogged with mineral deposits over time.

By removing the aerator, you can access the inner components of the faucet and effectively clean them using WD-40. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional if you are unsure how to remove the aerator.

Spray WD-40 into faucet and let sit briefly

Once you have turned off the water supply and disconnected the hoses, it’s time to spray WD-40 into the faucet. WD-40 is a versatile lubricant and can help loosen any rust, mineral deposits, or debris that may be causing your faucet to malfunction.

Hold the can of WD-40 close to the faucet and spray it directly into the opening. Allow the WD-40 to sit for a few minutes, giving it time to penetrate and dissolve any stubborn buildup.

Turn water on and rinse thoroughly

After letting the WD-40 sit for a brief period, it’s time to turn the water supply back on and rinse the faucet thoroughly. Turn the water on gradually, starting with a low flow, and gradually increase the pressure.

This will help flush out any loosened debris and ensure that your faucet is clean and functioning properly. Run the water for a few minutes to ensure that any remaining residue is completely removed.

By following these steps, you can effectively use WD-40 to clean and maintain your faucet. Remember to always read the instructions on the WD-40 can and follow any specific guidelines provided by the faucet manufacturer for best results. Happy faucet cleaning!

When to Use a Stronger Faucet Descaler Instead

While WD-40 is a versatile and effective product for many household tasks, there are instances when a stronger faucet descaler should be used instead. Here are a few scenarios where WD-40 may not be enough:

For severe mineral buildup

If your faucet is plagued by severe mineral buildup, WD-40 may not be able to fully dissolve and remove the deposits. In such cases, it is recommended to use a stronger faucet descaler specifically designed to tackle stubborn mineral deposits.

These descaling solutions are formulated with powerful chemicals that break down and remove even the toughest buildup, restoring your faucet to optimal performance.

If WD-40 doesn’t improve flow

In some instances, WD-40 may not be able to completely resolve flow issues caused by mineral buildup. If applying WD-40 to your faucet doesn’t lead to a noticeable improvement in water flow, it’s a sign that a stronger descaler may be necessary.

This is particularly true if the flow remains restricted or if you notice a decrease in water pressure despite using WD-40.

Tools for descaling a clogged faucet

When dealing with a severely clogged faucet, it’s important to have the right tools on hand to effectively descale it. Here are a few tools that can help:

A descaling solution: As mentioned earlier, using a specialized faucet descaler is often necessary for severe buildup. These solutions can be found at most hardware stores and are specifically formulated to dissolve mineral deposits.
A toothbrush or small brush: To scrub away loosened mineral deposits, a toothbrush or small brush can be used. Make sure to use a brush with soft bristles to avoid scratching the faucet surface.
A cloth or sponge: After applying the descaler and scrubbing away the mineral deposits, use a cloth or sponge to wipe down the faucet and remove any residue.

Remember, the severity of the mineral buildup will determine the best course of action. If you’re unsure about how to proceed or if the problem persists despite your efforts, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional plumber who can provide expert advice and assistance.

Other DIY Faucet Cleaning Methods to Try

Baking soda and vinegar soak

If you’re looking for a natural and effective way to clean your faucet, try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Simply create a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and white vinegar. Apply the paste to the faucet and let it sit for about 15 minutes.

Then, scrub the faucet with a soft brush or sponge and rinse thoroughly. This method can help remove mineral deposits and stains, leaving your faucet looking clean and shiny.

Lemon or lime juice soak

Another DIY method to clean a faucet is to use lemon or lime juice. These citrus fruits contain natural acids that can help dissolve mineral deposits and remove stains. Simply cut a lemon or lime in half and rub it directly on the faucet, focusing on the areas with buildup.

Let the juice sit for a few minutes, then scrub the faucet with a soft brush or sponge and rinse thoroughly. Not only will your faucet be cleaner, but it will also have a fresh citrus scent!

Hydrogen peroxide soak

Hydrogen peroxide is another effective cleaning agent that can be used to clean faucets. It has strong oxidizing properties that can help remove tough stains and kill bacteria. To clean your faucet with hydrogen peroxide, soak a cloth or sponge in the solution and apply it to the faucet.

Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub the faucet gently and rinse thoroughly. This method can help restore the shine to your faucet and make it look brand new.

Replacing aerator and supply lines

If your faucet is still not performing optimally after trying various cleaning methods, it may be time to consider replacing the aerator and supply lines. Over time, these components can become clogged with mineral deposits and affect the water flow.

Replacing them with new ones can help improve the overall performance of your faucet. Make sure to turn off the water supply before removing and installing the new aerator and supply lines.

Remember, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your faucet in good condition and extend its lifespan. So, don’t be afraid to try these DIY cleaning methods or seek professional help if needed. Your faucet will thank you!

Conclusion

While spraying WD-40 up a clogged faucet can provide temporary relief in some cases, it’s not a complete solution for fully removing stubborn mineral deposits. A dedicated faucet descaler would be more effective for severe clogs.

But as an occasional quick fix for mild flow issues, this easy DIY trick makes use of WD-40’s penetrating properties to loosen buildup. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly afterwards and never spray WD-40 near plastic parts.

And if drips or flow problems persist, a deeper cleaning or part replacement may be necessary. We hope this guide gives you a better idea of when and how spraying WD-40 up your faucet can help restore proper water flow.

Why Spray Wd-40 Up A Faucet? A Detailed Explanation