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How do you clean copper lines?

Published in Copper Cleaning 1 min read

Cleaning copper lines typically involves removing tarnish and buildup. A common method is to use a salt-and-vinegar mixture. Here's how:

Cleaning Copper Lines with Salt and Vinegar

This method is effective for removing tarnish from copper lines.

Materials Needed:

  • Salt
  • Vinegar
  • Soft cloth

Steps:

  1. Prepare the Mixture: Mix salt and vinegar to form a paste or solution. The proportions aren't critical; just ensure the salt dissolves somewhat in the vinegar.
  2. Apply the Mixture: Use a soft cloth to rub the salt-and-vinegar mixture onto the copper pipe.
  3. React: The mixture will create a chemical reaction that usually removes the tarnish from copper within seconds, according to the reference material.
  4. Rinse and Dry: After cleaning, rinse the copper line with water and dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth.

This method is effective because the acetic acid in vinegar helps dissolve copper oxides (tarnish), while the salt acts as a mild abrasive to help scrub away the loosened tarnish. Remember to always test in an inconspicuous area first.

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