How Do You Clean Calcium Deposits In A Main Drain?
Calcium and other minerals can accumulate inside a drainpipe over time, resulting in hard, encrusted deposits commonly referred to as scale or lime scale. Calcium deposits break down when exposed to salt and mild acids such as the acetic acid in vinegar. As a result, cleaning calcium deposits in a main drain typically only requires monthly use of kitchen supplies—salt, baking soda, white vinegar and hot water—unless dealing with severe buildup or hard water. Those may require a commercial calcium or lime scale removal product or the installation of a water-softening system. Unscrew or lift and remove the drain cover/grate, stopper or debris mesh catcher from the opening of the drain. Use an appropriate screwdriver, if necessary. Remove any large debris from the drain opening. Boil 2 qt. of water in a pot and pour it down the drainpipe. Pour 1 cup of salt, 1 cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar—in that order—down the drain opening and wait 30 to 45 minutes. Boil another 2 qt.
