ARCORA FAUCETS
A faucet is one of the most frequently used fixtures in any home. From washing hands and cleaning dishes to filling pots with water, it’s put to the test every single day. When you notice rust forming on your faucet, especially if it happens quickly after installation or cleaning, it can feel both frustrating and confusing. After all, faucets are supposed to last for years, and rust makes them look old and dirty while raising concerns about water quality and maintenance.
If your faucet seems to be rusting at an unusually fast pace, several factors could be at play. Understanding why rust happens and how to prevent it can help you restore the look of your faucet and extend its lifespan. Let’s break down the possible causes, what it means for your home, and what you can do about it.
1. What Causes Faucet Rust in the First Place?
Rust is the result of a natural process: the oxidation of iron when it comes into contact with oxygen and moisture. Many faucets are made of brass, stainless steel, or zinc alloys, often coated with chrome or other finishes to provide protection and shine. However, if that protective layer gets damaged or wears off, the underlying metal can oxidize and produce rust.
Even stainless steel, which is marketed as “rust-resistant,” is not completely immune. It contains chromium, which forms a thin, protective film that slows down corrosion. But exposure to harsh conditions, scratches, or poor maintenance can compromise this protective barrier and allow rust to form.
2. Common Reasons Faucets Rust Quickly
a. Poor Water Quality
Water quality plays a huge role in faucet longevity. High iron content in your water supply can accelerate rust formation on faucet surfaces. Hard water, which contains excess calcium and magnesium, leaves mineral deposits that trap moisture against the faucet’s surface. This moisture buildup makes it easier for rust to form.
b. Cheap or Low-Quality Materials
Not all faucets are created equal. Budget faucets often use thin chrome plating or finishes that wear away quickly. Once the protective coating is gone, the underlying metal is exposed to air and water, creating the perfect conditions for rust. Investing in higher-quality fixtures, made from solid brass or stainless steel, generally means longer-lasting resistance to corrosion.
c. Damage to the Protective Finish
Scrubbing faucets with abrasive cleaners or scouring pads can scratch their protective coating. Even a tiny scratch can give rust a foothold. Over time, moisture penetrates the damaged finish and corrodes the underlying metal. Similarly, harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia can weaken protective layers, speeding up rust formation.
d. Constant Moisture Exposure
Bathrooms and kitchens are humid environments. If your faucet base or handles are often wet—say from splashing water that never gets wiped away—moisture lingers and increases the chance of rust. Faucets installed near poorly ventilated sinks or in homes with high humidity are especially at risk.
e. Manufacturing Defects
Sometimes, a faucet may rust quickly simply because of poor-quality plating or manufacturing flaws. If the coating was applied unevenly or too thinly at the factory, corrosion can start within months of use.
3. Why Fast Rusting Is a Red Flag
A little rust might seem like a minor cosmetic issue, but fast-developing rust often signals bigger problems:
- Water Quality Issues: Excess minerals or iron in your water could be affecting not just your faucet, but also your pipes and appliances.
- Short Fixture Lifespan: Quick rusting often means your faucet will fail sooner than expected, leading to leaks or costly replacements.
- Health Concerns: While a small amount of rust in tap water isn’t usually dangerous, significant rust can discolor your water, affect its taste, and in extreme cases, indicate corroding pipes that need urgent attention.
4. How to Stop Faucets from Rusting So Quickly
Step 1: Check Your Water Supply
If you suspect hard water or high iron content, consider installing a water softener or a filtration system. Not only will this help protect your faucet, but it will also improve water quality throughout your home.
Step 2: Switch to Gentle Cleaners
Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads and harsh chemicals. Instead, use mild dish soap, baking soda, or vinegar with a soft cloth to clean your faucet. These methods remove grime without damaging the protective finish.
Step 3: Keep It Dry
After using the sink, wipe down your faucet with a soft towel to remove water droplets. It only takes a few seconds, but this habit significantly reduces the chance of rust forming.
Step 4: Apply a Protective Coating
You can use a thin layer of car wax or a faucet-specific sealant to create a water-resistant barrier. This adds an extra shield against moisture and prolongs the life of the finish.
Step 5: Replace Low-Quality Fixtures
If your faucet was inexpensive or poorly made, replacing it with a higher-quality model might be the best long-term solution. Look for solid brass, stainless steel, or faucets with advanced rust-resistant finishes.
5. When to Call a Plumber
If rust appears inside your faucet (like in the aerator or spout) or you notice rusty water, the problem might not be the faucet at all—it could be your plumbing. Old galvanized steel pipes, in particular, are prone to rust and corrosion. A licensed plumber can inspect your system, test your water, and recommend solutions ranging from pipe replacement to installing filtration systems.
6. Final Thoughts
A faucet that rusts quickly is more than just an aesthetic nuisance—it’s often a symptom of larger issues with water quality, materials, or maintenance habits. While no faucet is entirely immune to rust, choosing the right materials, treating your water, and adopting better care practices can significantly slow the process.
If your faucet is already rusting faster than expected, don’t ignore the warning signs. Take steps to address the underlying causes, and consider upgrading to a better-quality fixture. With the right approach, you can enjoy a rust-free, long-lasting faucet that keeps your kitchen or bathroom looking polished and working smoothly