Rust (iron) stains on shower walls etc.

[ALEXA.E]

Hello,
I know this forum is for finding solutions for the problem not happening again, which is greatly appreciated! But in the meantime, while I decide what to go with and save up for it, are there any fool proof methods of getting rid of these stains that come up on the walls and basins. What is the best product and method out there. Don't mind a bit of 'elbow grease' it just that the frequency is getting a bit boring.

Also, if its city water, is it possible for the city to have industrial grade iron filtration systems on the go? Is this something I should be lobbying for? Would be better than every house hold having individual systems and all the associated power, chemical and maintenance costs.

Thanks so much.

[NH Master]

Have your water tested and get back to us with the results. It's only conjecture at this point but you may be able to control the iron with a softener or you may need something else if the iron levels are higher than a softener alone will handle. In the meantime a product called Iron Out will take it off the shower walls and yes, you will need to supply the elbow grease.

[Gary Slusser]

Hello,
I know this forum is for finding solutions for the problem not happening again, which is greatly appreciated! But in the meantime, while I decide what to go with and save up for it, are there any fool proof methods of getting rid of these stains that come up on the walls and basins. What is the best product and method out there. Don't mind a bit of 'elbow grease' it just that the frequency is getting a bit boring.

Also, if its city water, is it possible for the city to have industrial grade iron filtration systems on the go? Is this something I should be lobbying for? Would be better than every house hold having individual systems and all the associated power, chemical and maintenance costs.

Thanks so much.

If the water is chlorinated you shouldn't have the type of iron (ferrous) that a softener removes, you'll have ferric iron (rust) unless you have galvanized pipe or fittings, then the chlorine can cause ferrous and ferric iron. The cure is to get rid of the galvanized.

[Andy CWS]

Hello,
I know this forum is for finding solutions for the problem not happening again, which is greatly appreciated! But in the meantime, while I decide what to go with and save up for it, are there any fool proof methods of getting rid of these stains that come up on the walls and basins. What is the best product and method out there. Don't mind a bit of 'elbow grease' it just that the frequency is getting a bit boring.

Also, if its city water, is it possible for the city to have industrial grade iron filtration systems on the go? Is this something I should be lobbying for? Would be better than every house hold having individual systems and all the associated power, chemical and maintenance costs.

Thanks so much.

You'll not have much success 'lobbying' for major changes in the city's water system unless health, serious health issues are involved. They may claim that your water is safe and not too concerned with asthetics.

Many city water supplies HAVE ferrous (clear water) iron. But it can also be caused by old city water lines. Do you have those stains in your toilet like the shower? If not, then maybe your water heater is rusting away inside.

Andy Christensen, CWS-II