Plumbing and maintenance
Protecting bathroom fittings from hard water
The short answer
Scale attacks the moving parts first: valves, cartridges, spray heads and seals. Simple habits extend their life considerably.
What to check
Descaling removable spray heads and aerators periodically maintains flow and prevents an uneven spray pattern.
Where a shower valve scales repeatedly, an inline filter or a water treatment decision is worth discussing.
Your questions answered
Does scale reduce shower pressure?
It reduces flow at the head, which most people experience as reduced pressure.
Are descaling products safe on chrome?
Mild acid products used briefly and rinsed are usually fine; prolonged contact can damage finishes.
Related expert guides
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