Every year, when the weather starts to warm up, many people begin to notice rust and iron stains in their toilets, sinks, and other household fixtures. This phenomenon is commonly known as “flushing season,” and it can be caused by a variety of factors.
One of the main culprits of flushing season is the change in water temperature. As the weather warms up, the temperature of the water in underground pipes also increases. This can cause minerals like iron and manganese to dissolve in the water, which can lead to rust and staining in household fixtures.
Another common cause of flushing season is the increase in water usage during the spring and summer months. As more people begin to water their lawns, fill their swimming pools, and take showers, the increased water flow can stir up sediment in the pipes, leading to rust and staining.
So, what can you do to prevent flushing season from affecting your household fixtures? Here are a few tips:
Install a water softener
A water softener can help to remove minerals like iron and manganese from your water supply, reducing the likelihood of
staining in your fixtures. Be sure to regularly maintain and replace the softening media in your water softener to ensure its effectiveness.
Use a rust stain remover
If you do notice rust stains in your fixtures, there are many rust stain removers available on the market that can help. Look for products that are specifically designed to remove rust stains from your particular type of fixture (e.g. toilet, sink, shower).
Increase water flow
Increasing water flow can help to flush out sediment that may be causing rust and staining in your fixtures. You can do this by running your faucets and showerheads at a higher flow rate for a few minutes each day.
Consider professional help
If flushing season is a recurring issue for you, it may be worth considering hiring a professional plumber to inspect your pipes and fixtures. They can identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to the problem and recommend solutions.
In conclusion, flushing season can be a frustrating problem for homeowners, but there are steps you can take to prevent and address rust and staining in your fixtures. By using a water softener, rust stain remover, increasing water flow, or seeking professional help, you can keep your household fixtures looking clean and functioning properly.
