Is there anyway to clean rust deposits from hotwater pipes.

is there anyway to clean rust deposits from hotwater pipes.,
Hi John,

Iron Oxide,(rust) gets into your pipes through mineral build up in the heater. If the heater isn't flushed out on a regular basis this can work its way up into the hot water pipesand cling to the pipe walls. There are several methods you can use. Back flush the hot water system with Oxalic Acid, (Oxalic Acid is a weak solution but is toxic so wear rubber gloves) or shut off the hot water and beat on the pipes to dislodge the rust. Tjen open up a hor water supply and flush the rust out of the line. This will have to be done on each branch to be sure you have it all.. If you have been flushing your heater out we wouldn't be having this conversation. For long life and fewer troubles you should keep your heater clear of mineral build-up by flushing on a regular schedule. Let me show you how. Attach a hose to the boiler drain at the bottom of the tank. With the pressure on, open the boiler drain and let it run until the water runs clear. You will see a spurt of red,(rust) followed by white grains,(lime or calcium carbonate). This shouldn't take more then a few minutes. Do this monthly to keep it clear. Good luck, Tom