Cleaning and Maintenance of CLAGE Taps – How to Extend Lifespan and Remove Limescale

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Cleaning and maintenance of CLAGE taps – how to extend their lifespan and remove limescale

CLAGE taps are premium fittings that can easily last 15 to 20 years without major repairs if properly maintained. Despite this, in practice, we often encounter situations where the tap starts dripping, has a weak flow or the lever squeaks – and most of these problems have one common denominator: neglecting regular maintenance and limescale buildup. In this article, we will explain in detail what happens inside the tap over time, how to properly care for it, and what to do when the first signs of deposits appear.

The knowledge center for CLAGE taps was created with a focus on practical information from real customer cases – not abstract advice from brochures. Each procedure in this article has been verified in specific practical cases, including hard water in Záhorie, where hardness exceeds 35 °dH, as well as relatively soft Bratislava water around 15 °dH. The results and frequency of cleaning vary significantly under such different conditions.

Why limescale forms and what it does to the tap

Limescale is a deposit of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) and magnesium carbonate (MgCO₃), which forms when water with a high mineral content is heated or evaporated. The harder the water, the faster the scale accumulates. In Slovak households, water hardness typically ranges between 10 °dH (soft water, parts of central Slovakia) and 40 °dH (extremely hard water, some areas in the southwest).

Inside the tap, scale mainly affects the following areas:

Aerator (mesh air inlet) – the most commonly clogged area, causing splashing and weak flow
Ceramic cartridge valve – deposits between the ceramic plates block smooth lever movement and increase friction
Filter mesh before the cartridge – captures larger impurities, but is also affected by scale
Tap spout and head – white coating on the outer surface of the spout
Seals and O-rings – scale accelerates the degradation of rubber seals and causes dripping
Shower hose and head – in taps with showers, the shower nozzle also gets clogged

It is important to understand that at temperatures above 60 °C, the rate of scale deposition increases dramatically – which is why taps at sinks, where people use hot water without mixing, are in worse condition. For CLAGE flow heaters, which are listed in the catalog next to the taps, it is important to note that a properly set heating temperature around 50–55 °C is a compromise between hygiene requirements and slower deposition.

Maintenance frequency – how often per year and based on what

There is no universal maintenance schedule that applies equally to every household. The main factors that determine how often a tap needs to be cleaned are water hardness, usage intensity, and the type of tap. Below is an approximate overview:

Practical tip: you can find out the water hardness in your area for free on the website of the local waterworks or with a simple test strip, which you can buy in any larger online store for a few euros. If you see a white coating on the faucet after 2–3 weeks from cleaning, you definitely have a hardness above 30 °dH and cleaning the aerator once a month is a necessity.

Cleaning the aerator – step by step

The aerator (also called an aerator or air mixer) is a small component at the end of the faucet outlet, which aerates the water and gives the water stream a fine, homogeneous character. It is also the number one place where limescale accumulates – and at the same time the place where cleaning is the easiest.

Step-by-step cleaning of the CLAGE aerator:

Unscrew the aerator manually or with the help of thin pliers – wrap the jaws with adhesive tape to avoid damaging the finish of the faucet. CLAGE faucets usually have an aerator with an external thread of M22×1, while some basin models have M24×1.
Disassemble the aerator into individual parts – it usually consists of a body, a mesh (filter), a rubber gasket, and a diffuser disc. Keep the order and orientation of the parts, or take a photo before disassembling.
Soak the parts in a vinegar solution – white distilled vinegar (min. 10 % acetic acid) or a specialized limescale remover. For light limescale, 30 minutes is enough; for heavily clogged meshes, 2–3 hours is fine. Never use chlorine-based products – they damage the rubber and metal parts.
Clean gently with an old toothbrush – wipe away any remaining limescale from the mesh. Do not clean metal meshes with a wire brush – it can damage the mesh.
Rinse under running water and check the mesh permeability.
Reassemble and check the seal – if the rubber gasket is hardened or cracked, replace it. Replacement gaskets for standard M22 aerators are cheap and available.
Screw the aerator back on by hand, tighten without tools (over-tightening can damage the thread).

From practice: a customer from Trnava (water hardness approx. 33 °dH) had a CLAGE faucet at the basin, where the flow dropped from 6 liters/min to 1.2 liters/min in less than three months. After cleaning the aerator, the flow immediately returned to normal. The limescale was so hard that the mesh had to be soaked overnight. Solution: since then, they clean the aerator every 4–5 weeks and use a magnetic water softener at the water inlet.

Cleaning the cartridge and replacing seals

The cartridge is the heart of a single-lever faucet. CLAGE standardly installs ceramic cartridges, which are more resistant to wear than the rubber valves of older types. Despite this, even ceramic requires regular attention, as water scale can block the movement between the ceramic plates and create an abrasive effect with every turn of the lever.

Signs of cartridge problems:

The lever is harder to pull than usual or gets stuck
The faucet drips from the outlet even after being fully closed
The water temperature does not respond accurately to the lever position
Noticeable squeaking or creaking when moving the lever

Cleaning the cartridge is a bit more demanding than cleaning the aerator, but still manageable by yourself. If you have no experience with disassembling the faucet, we recommend reading the article Installation of CLAGE water faucet – step by step from our Knowledge Center, where you will find a detailed disassembly and reassembly procedure.

Cartridge cleaning procedure:

Turn off the water supply (corner valves under the basin or the main shut-off valve).
Open the faucet lever to release pressure and let any remaining water drain out.
Remove the lever cap (usually a colored plastic cover, which you can pry off with a flat screwdriver), unscrew the lever screw (Allen key 2.5 mm or 3 mm), and pull the lever up.
Unscrew the cartridge housing – on CLAGE faucets, it is usually a nut with a size of 26–30 mm (wrench or adjustable French wrench, again with surface protection).
The cartridge can be pulled out directly upwards – it comes out easily from the seat if it is not heavily clogged with limescale.
Soak the cartridge in diluted vinegar (1:1 with water) for 1–2 hours. Do not immerse the cartridge in concentrated acids – you may damage the seals and plastic parts.
Carefully clean the channels and inlet holes with a soft brush.
When reassembling, make sure the cartridge is in the correct orientation – it has a lock or pins that prevent rotation. A wrongly installed cartridge will cause the cold and hot water to be swapped.

Warning: if the cartridge is mechanically damaged (cracked ceramic plate, broken lever rod), cleaning will not help. In such a case, the cartridge must be replaced. CLAGE uses standard cartridge sizes (40 mm and 35 mm), which are available as spare parts. More on this topic can be found in the article Common CLAGE faucet faults – dripping, weak flow and their solutions.

Cleaning the external surface of the faucet

The surface of the CLAGE faucet is usually chrome or a special surface treatment (matte chrome, PVD titanium coating, anthracite). Each of these treatments requires a slightly different approach to cleaning.

Chromed surface

Chrome is durable, but not indestructible. To remove the white calcium coating on chrome, do the following:

Moisten a cloth with slightly diluted vinegar (1 part vinegar, 3 parts water) and apply it to the affected area for 5–10 minutes.
Wipe gently with a soft microfiber cloth – never with abrasive sponges or steel wool.
Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly – remaining water again leaves stains.
Optionally: lightly rub with pure vaseline or a special chrome protection product – it creates a hydrophobic layer that slows down the deposition of new stains.

Matt chrome and PVD surfaces

These surfaces are more sensitive. Never use acids (even diluted vinegar) for more than a few seconds and rinse thoroughly immediately. CLAGE manufacturer recommends only neutral glass cleaning agents or special products for matte taps for these surfaces. Prolonged contact with acid can cause permanent stains or damage the PVD layer.

Anthracite and dark surfaces

Dark PVD surfaces hide water stains less than chrome – paradoxically, therefore, they require more frequent drying after each use. A simple habit: keep a small microfiber cloth next to the tap and quickly dry it after each use of the sink. This saves hours of cleaning later.

Cleaning of shower hoses and handheld showers (if part of the set)

Some CLAGE taps are equipped with a handheld shower and a flexible hose. The shower nozzles get clogged with limescale quite quickly, which is noticeable by a spray to the sides instead of an even jet.

Cleaning of the handheld shower nozzles:

Rubber nozzles (silicone) – it is enough to pinch them with your fingers and massage; the scale is removed mechanically. A simple and effective method that usually works very well.
Hard plastic or metal nozzles – soak the entire shower head in a vinegar solution (1:1 with water) for 1–2 hours, or even overnight in case of heavy clogging.
Hose – once a year, disconnect the hose from the tap and the shower and rinse it with a high-pressure stream of clean water to flush out deposits from the inside. If the hose is old and stiff, consider replacing it – an old hose can be a source of bacteria (Legionella) in warm stagnant water.

Long-term protection – how to slow down scaling

Cleaning solves the problem once it has already occurred. Much more effective is slowing down the deposition of scale with preventive measures. Here are proven solutions from practice:

Water softener for the entire household

An ion exchange water softener is the most effective solution for hard water. It reduces hardness to 5–8 °dH, which practically eliminates scale formation throughout the entire household. The investment ranges from €600 to €2,000 depending on capacity, but the maintenance of taps, boiler, washing machine, and dishwasher is then minimal. Disadvantage: it increases the sodium content in the water, which is not suitable for people with limited salt intake.

Magnetic and physical conditioners

They are installed on the supply pipe without affecting the chemistry of the water. They change the crystalline structure of calcium carbonate so that it is more likely to deposit in a central point (boiler, tank) rather than on the surfaces of taps. Their effectiveness is scientifically disputed, but many customers report improvement with hardness of 20–30 °dH. They are not sufficient for extreme hardness.

Regular drying of the tap after use

A simple habit that significantly reduces visible calcium stains on the outside. Water droplets on the surface of the tap leave a mineral film when evaporated – it is enough to wipe them with a dry microfiber cloth. In hotels and showrooms, taps are always kept dry: staff dry them after each visitor.

Setting the heater temperature

If you have a storage heater or a CLAGE flow heater, do not exceed 55 °C at the outlet. Every 10 °C above this limit doubles the rate of scale deposition. A heater at 75 °C produces scale at four times the rate of one at 55 °C.

Special protective agents

There are liquid agents available on the market based on polymer inhibitors (e.g., for storage heaters), which bind calcium and magnesium ions and prevent their precipitation. They are not directly intended for taps, but in systems with a heater, they can indirectly reduce the scaling of the connected tap.

When to seek a professional

Not every problem can be solved by home cleaning. The following situations require professional intervention or replacement of parts:

The tap drips even after cleaning the cartridge → the cartridge is mechanically damaged, needs to be replaced
Water leakage from the body of the tap, not from the outlet → cracked body or damaged threaded connection
Dripping at the side of the lever or under the collar → worn O-rings on the cartridge body
Uneven flow despite cleaning the aerator → problem in the supply pipe or situation before the tap
The tap is older than 10–12 years and has recurring problems → it is economically more advantageous to consider a new tap

If you are considering a replacement, read in our Knowledge Center How to choose CLAGE taps – what to pay attention to and Tap connection pitch and dimensions – how to measure and choose the right size, so the new tap will fit without complications.

Comparison of cleaning methods and their effectiveness

Method	Effectiveness for light scale	Effectiveness for heavy scale	Risk of damage	Cost
White vinegar 10 % (30 min)	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐	Low	0.10 €
White vinegar – soaking overnight	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Low (long time)	0.20 €
Special descaling agent (e.g. Dr. Beckmann)	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Medium (PVD surfaces)	2–4 €
Citric acid (solution)	⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Low	0.30 €
Chlorine-based products	⭐ (not suitable)	⭐ (not suitable)	High ❌	–
Mechanical cleaning (wire brush)	⭐⭐	⭐⭐	Very high ❌	–

Practical scenarios from practice – what we have seen with customers

Scenario 1: Bathroom with soap dispensers in hard water

A customer from the area of Nitra (water hardness 38 °dH) had a CLAGE basin tap that barely ran after 8 months of use. The aerator was completely clogged – the mesh was 95 % blocked by limescale. The cartridge turned more difficultly, but was still functional. After an hour of soaking the aerator in pure vinegar, cleaning the filter and greasing the O-rings with technical vaseline, the flow was restored to full capacity. Recommendation: clean the aerator every 6 weeks and consider a compact water softener for the hot water supply.

Scenario 2: Kitchen tap with pull-out sprayer

A customer from Bratislava (hardness 16 °dH) complained that the pull-out sprayer of the CLAGE kitchen tap sprayed sideways. Problem: clogged rubber nozzles of the sprayer. Solution: 10-minute manual massage of the nozzles and 45-minute soaking of the head in vinegar. The result was immediate. Since she has relatively soft water, this cleaning is sufficient once every 3–4 months.

Scenario 3: Tap in a holiday cottage

A cottage tap that is used only on weekends and holidays shows a different type of problem: during long periods of non-use, biofilms can settle in the hoses and inside the cartridge. Recommendation: always let the water run for at least 2 minutes before use after a long break. Once a season, flush the hoses and clean the aerator preventively, even if it is not visibly clogged.

Scenario 4: Dripping tap after cleaning

A customer cleaned the cartridges himself, but after reassembly the tap started dripping at the outlet. Cause: during disassembly, the sealing under the cartridge (rubber seat) had shifted. Solution: disassemble again, properly position the sealing and reassemble the cartridge with the correct orientation. Lesson: always take a photo or video before disassembly, and keep all small rubber parts in a safe place.

Most frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How long does it take for vinegar to dissolve limescale in an aerator?

For light deposits (a tap cleaned less than half a year ago), 30 minutes is enough. For moderate deposits, where the deposits are visible but the mesh is still passable, 1–2 hours. For heavy deposits, where the aerator is barely running, we recommend soaking overnight (8–12 hours). If the scale still holds after an overnight soak, add mechanical cleaning with a soft brush. Citric acid (20 g in 0.5 l of water) is an alternative that works similarly fast as vinegar.

Can I clean a CLAGE tap without disassembly – for example, by wrapping a vinegar bag around it?

Yes, for the outer part of the spout and outlet it is a common method: fill a plastic bag or cup with vinegar solution, attach it to the outlet and fix it with a rubber band or adhesive tape so that the end of the spout is submerged. Let it work for 30–60 minutes. This method helps with external scale and partially also with the aerator, if the vinegar is in contact with the mesh. For deep cleaning of the cartridge or entire system, however, disassembly is unavoidable.

What is the difference between white vinegar and citric acid when cleaning taps?

Both agents are weak acids that effectively dissolve calcium carbonate. White vinegar (acetic acid 5–10 %) is cheaper and easily available, but has a strong smell. Citric acid is odourless, slightly less aggressive and ideal for delicate surfaces. In practice, the result is comparable. For PVD and matte surfaces we recommend citric acid in a weak solution (10 g/litre of water) with a shorter contact time. Never use hydrochloric acid (masonry acid) – it is too aggressive and irreversibly damages the surface and metal parts.

Do I have to turn off the water if I am only cleaning the aerator?

You do not have to turn off the water when cleaning only the aerator – the aerator is screwed from the outside and after unscrewing it from the outlet, only water from the spout is running. However, before unscrewing the aerator, we recommend closing the water at the corner valves under the sink, so you do not waste too much water and you have peace of mind while working. When cleaning the cartridge or replacing seals, closing the water is mandatory.

How do I know that the aerator needs to be replaced instead of cleaned?

Replace the aerator if: (a) the mesh is mechanically torn or deformed, (b) plastic or metal parts are cracked, (c) the aerator thread is damaged and leaks, or (d) after cleaning the flow is still uneven and the water sprays sideways. Replacement aerators for CLAGE taps are available in standard sizes (M22×1 or M24×1), the price ranges from 3 to 10 euros.

Will regular cleaning affect the CLAGE warranty?

No – regular cleaning of the aerator and the outer surface is standard routine maintenance, which is not covered by the warranty and does not affect it. What can affect the warranty is non-professional disassembly of the cartridge or body of the tap, using incorrect replacement parts, or mechanical damage during cleaning with rough tools. If you have doubts about what is and what is not covered by the warranty, read the article Common questions about CLAGE taps – warranty, spare parts, seal replacement from our Knowledge Center.

Conclusion – small regular maintenance, big savings

CLAGE taps are robust and reliable fittings, but even the best quality cannot remain in good condition for 20 years without basic care. The key is to set up a simple routine: clean the aerator according to the hardness of the water (from once a month to once a year), dry the outer surface after use, and inspect the cartridges and seals preventively every 2–3 years. If you also implement a solution for water hardness at the household entrance, your tap will look and function like new for decades of daily use.

An investment in a white vinegar bottle for one euro and 30 minutes of attention twice a year is significantly cheaper than premature replacement of the tap or a service call for an plumber. And if a problem occurs despite the care, which goes beyond routine maintenance, our Knowledge Centre will help you with it – see the article Common CLAGE tap faults – dripping, weak flow and their solutions, where you will find a systematic procedure for diagnosing and repairing the most common faults.

Do you have a question on this topic?

Having trouble deciding or dealing with a specific situation in your home? Write to us – we are happy to help.