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Here are 6 steps on how to clean solder for plumbing systems so your work stays professional and lasts longer. Soldering is an important part of plumbing systems. It’s used to join pipes together and seal them against leaks.
If you are a plumber, then you know that there are many materials that can be soldered for different applications – brass, lead, copper, steel, or plastic tubes or fittings.
But all these solder materials need to be cleaned before they are reused to prevent corrosion, which could cause big problems down the road!
How to Clean Solder for Plumbing Systems
Step 1: Acquire Solder-Removing Tools
You’ll need to get some solder-removing tools before you begin. You can rent or buy these tools depending on your preference and budget, but make sure that they are the right size for the job at hand.
Step 2: Remove Old Pipe Components & Protect Surrounding Areas
Remove the old pipe components and place them in a safe area. Ensure that you protect the surrounding areas by covering your floors and carpets with protective materials such as cardboard or plastic sheeting.
Step 3: Remove Solder from Flanges & Fixtures
Using your solder removing tool, begin removing the solder from around flange connections to the pipe.
Keep the solder-removing tool wet as you work to make sure that it doesn’t burn out, and start at the top of the connection if possible so that any loose pieces fall down into your disposal container.
Step 4: Remove Solder from Fixtures
Using a sponge or wet cloth, begin removing the solder around faucets using hand motions in addition to circular motions until there is no more visible residue on the fixtures themselves.
If needed, use an abrasive material such as steel wool, especially tough areas where stubborn bits remain stuck after cleaning with just water. Be careful not to damage surrounding materials when scrubbing off old solder! Let all surfaces dry completely before continuing onto step five below.
Step 5: Finish with Solder-Removing Fluid
Now that you have removed all of the solders from your flanges and fixtures, it’s time to remove any last bits of residue. Dip a sponge or rag into your solvent (or use the special brush included in some kits) and begin wiping down each surface until no more visible traces remain.
Continue doing this for as long as necessary; if needed, dip cloths/sponges back into solvent every few minutes to pick up new residues without having to stop working completely and wait for surfaces to dry before moving on again. Let everything fully dry once complete!
Step 6: Reattach Components & Turn Water On
Reattach components after letting them sit out overnight to dry. Turn your water back on and make sure that there are no leaks before putting the final touches on your plumbing system!
Tips When Cleaning Solder
Protect Your Surroundings
When cleaning plumbing solder, make sure that you protect surrounding areas by covering floors and carpets with protective materials such as cardboard or plastic sheeting.
Take Your Time
It’s important to take your time to remove solder from plumbing components so that you don’t accidentally damage any parts and thus have to replace them. This can be a costly mistake if not careful! Even though it takes longer than other methods, going slow is worth it in the end for a complete clean-up with less hassle.
Wear Protective Equipment
When cleaning plumbing solder, be sure to wear protective equipment such as gloves and goggles so that you don’t accidentally burn yourself while working.
Use the Right Solvent
Be sure to use a solvent especially designed for removing solder when doing this kind of work! Other solvents may damage surrounding surfaces or even react poorly with your pipes if not chosen correctly.
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