Electrical & Plumbing Fixtures
The electrical and plumbing fixtures in your home add both functionality and style. Understanding how to care for them properly will help maintain their appearance and extend their life.
How It Works
Understanding Fixture Coatings
The manufacturer typically treats fixtures with a clear protective coating, electro-statically applied, to provide beauty and durability. This coating is not impervious to wear and tear.
What can damage the coating:
- Atmospheric conditions
- Sunlight exposure
- Caustic agents such as paints
- Scratches from sharp objects
- Abrasive cleaning products
These can cause the protective coating to crack or peel, resulting in spotting and discoloration.
Routine Maintenance
| Task | Frequency | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Wipe fixtures dry after use | Daily | 1 minute |
| Clean with mild soap | Weekly | 5 minutes |
| Inspect for corrosion | Monthly | 5 minutes |
| Polish metal fixtures | As needed | 10 minutes |
Proper Cleaning
Initial care of these products requires only:
- Periodic cleaning with a mild, nonabrasive soap
- Buffing with a soft cloth
- Avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers
Products to avoid:
- Abrasive cleaners (scrubbing powders)
- Harsh chemical cleaners
- Steel wool or abrasive pads
- Acidic cleaners (vinegar-based products on some finishes)
Dealing with Corrosion
It is very likely that your fixtures have a coating on top of a base metal. Water having a high mineral content is corrosive to any metal-coated or solid metal fixture.
To minimize corrosion:
- Wipe fixtures dry after use
- Address dripping faucets promptly
- Consider water treatment if you have very hard water
Restoring Appearance
When peeling, spotting, or discoloration occurs:
- You can sometimes restore the beauty of the metal by hand-polishing the item with a suitable polish
- Applying a light coat of wax and buffing with a soft cloth helps maintain the gloss
- Use polish appropriate for your fixture's finish type
Troubleshooting
Tarnishing or Discoloration
Like sterling silver, metals will gradually tarnish and eventually take on an antique appearance. This is:
- A natural process
- Not preventable
- Not covered under warranty
Regular polishing can slow this process but not eliminate it entirely.
Fixture Dripping
- Check for worn washers or seals
- Tighten connections if loose
- Contact a plumber if problem persists
Low Water Pressure at Faucet
- Clean the aerator (unscrew from faucet tip)
- Check supply valves are fully open
- Compare with other faucets to isolate the issue
What to Avoid
- Don't use abrasive cleaners - They scratch and damage protective coatings
- Don't let water sit on fixtures - Standing water accelerates corrosion
- Don't use harsh chemicals - They can damage finishes
- Don't force handles - Over-tightening can damage valves
- Don't ignore leaks - Small drips waste water and cause damage over time
Manufacturer Warranties
Many of the fixtures and appliances in your home carry a manufacturer's warranty above and beyond the Limited Warranty offered by Classic Homes. Check your product documentation for:
- Warranty registration requirements
- Coverage periods
- Claim procedures
Related Topics
Warranty Coverage: See Fixtures Standards for coverage periods and exclusions.