Stainless Steel Care and Maintenance Guide
Stainless steel is durable and resistant to rust and corrosion, but it still requires proper care to maintain its appearance and longevity. Here are some tips for taking care of stainless steel products.
Regular Cleaning
Use Mild Detergents: Clean with warm water, a soft cloth, or a sponge using mild dish soap.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Stay away from steel wool, scrubbing pads, or harsh chemicals that can scratch the surface.
Rinse and Dry: After cleaning, rinse thoroughly with water to remove residue and dry with a clean, soft towel to prevent water spots.
Remove Stains and Marks
Vinegar Solution: Use a mix of equal parts vinegar and water to remove fingerprints and smudges. Wipe along the grain for best results.
Baking Soda Paste: For tougher stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply with a soft cloth, rub gently, then rinse and dry.
Prevent Rust and Corrosion
Avoid Prolonged Water Exposure: Don’t leave stainless steel products wet; this can lead to water spots or rust over time.
Protect from Chlorides: Keep stainless steel away from chlorinated products or salty environments (e.g., pool water, sea air), as chlorides can cause pitting and rust—Aquor's marine-grade stainless steel holds up especially well in coastal environments.
Polish for Shine
Stainless Steel Cleaners: Use dedicated stainless steel cleaners or polishes to maintain a shiny finish.
Olive Oil or Baby Oil: Apply a small amount to a cloth and buff the surface for a natural shine.
Handle with Care
Avoid Impact: Prevent dents and scratches by handling stainless steel items gently.
Use Protective Coatings: For outdoor stainless steel items, consider applying a protective wax or coating to shield against harsh weather conditions.
Inspect and Maintain Regularly
Check for signs of damage or rust and address them promptly. Use a fine-grade stainless steel polish to buff out minor scratches or rust spots.
Aquor Hydrant Care
Aquor hydrants leave the factory fully tested and operational. They are treated with lubricant where needed. The hydrant requires no scheduled maintenance to provide a long operational life. If a problem does arise, all the serviceable components are offered in repair kits. Email contact@aquorwatersystems.com for more details. We're happy to help!
Cleaning Tips
As mentioned above, clean with soap and water to maintain corrosion resistance and appearance of the marine-grade stainless steel. Use a soft brush to remove any accumulated dirt, then rinse with clean water. Use stainless steel polish as needed.
Hard Water Buildup
The hydrant can be completely disassembled for service or cleaning if needed. The inner valve and stem are accessed through the rear.
Recommendations to Extend Longevity
Unplug the hydrant after each use and allow the hydrant to drain to provide maximum freeze protection.
Fully drain and depressurize your hose after disconnecting.
Store your hose connector out of the elements to prolong its lifespan.
Use care not to snag the connector O-rings on the hydrant nibs.
By following these steps, your stainless steel products can maintain their sleek appearance and functionality for years to come!