Zojirushi is a renowned brand known for its high-quality water boilers, but even their products can be susceptible to a common issue – rusting. This comprehensive guide will delve into the causes of Zojirushi water boiler rusting, provide effective methods for rust removal, and explore the options for replacing a severely rusted inner tank.
Causes of Rusting
The primary culprit behind the reddish staining or rust spots on Zojirushi water boilers is the naturally occurring iron mineral content in the water. When water with a high mineral content is used, and the boiler is not cleaned regularly or the water is left to sit, the iron can accumulate and lead to the formation of rust.
According to Zojirushi’s technical specifications, the average iron content in water can range from 0.05 to 0.3 mg/L. However, in areas with high mineral content, the iron levels can be significantly higher, reaching up to 1.0 mg/L or more. This increased iron concentration is a major contributing factor to the rusting issue.
Additionally, if the water boiler is not thoroughly dried after each use, the remaining moisture can accelerate the rusting process, leading to a more rapid buildup of iron deposits and rust.
Removing Rust
Zojirushi recommends several effective methods for removing rust from their water boilers:
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Citric Acid Cleaning: Performing a citric acid cleaning every 1-3 months is the primary solution suggested by Zojirushi. This method involves using a citric acid-based cleaning solution, which can effectively dissolve and remove the iron deposits that cause the rust. The frequency of this cleaning process should be adjusted based on the mineral content of the water being used, with higher mineral content requiring more frequent cleaning.
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CLR (Calcium, Lime, and Rust Remover): CLR is a commercially available product that can be used to remove rust from Zojirushi water boilers. This product is designed to target and dissolve various mineral deposits, including calcium, lime, and rust.
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Barkeepers Friend: Some users have reported success in using Barkeepers Friend, a powdered cleaning product, to remove rust from their Zojirushi water boilers. This product contains oxalic acid, which can effectively break down and remove iron-based stains.
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Descaling Gel or Liquid: For more stubborn rust deposits, a descaling gel or liquid can be applied directly to the affected areas and wiped off. These products are formulated to penetrate and dissolve hard water and mineral buildup, including rust.
It’s important to note that the frequency of cleaning and the specific cleaning method may need to be adjusted based on the severity of the rust and the mineral content of the water being used. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any rust formation can help extend the lifespan of your Zojirushi water boiler.
Replacement of Rusty Inner Tank
One of the challenges with Zojirushi water boilers is that the inner tank is not designed to be removable. This makes the replacement of a severely rusted inner tank a difficult and, in many cases, an impossible task for the average user.
According to Zojirushi’s customer support, if the rusting is severe and the inner tank is beyond repair, the best course of action is to contact their customer support team for guidance. They may be able to provide recommendations on the next steps, such as exploring the possibility of a replacement unit or directing the user to an authorized service center for further assistance.
It’s worth noting that some Zojirushi models, such as the CD-WCC30, have been reported to last for over 10 years without experiencing significant rusting issues. The frequency of descaling and the mineral content of the water used can play a significant role in the longevity of the inner tank.
Technical Specifications
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Model CD-WCC30: This Zojirushi water boiler model has been reported by users to have a long lifespan, with some owners claiming it has lasted for over 10 years without experiencing severe rusting problems.
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Descaling Frequency: The frequency of descaling required for Zojirushi water boilers can vary depending on the mineral content of the water being used. Higher mineral content, particularly in areas with high iron levels, will necessitate more frequent descaling to prevent the buildup of deposits and rust.
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For water with low to moderate mineral content (0.05-0.3 mg/L iron), Zojirushi recommends descaling every 1-3 months.
- For water with high mineral content (0.3-1.0 mg/L iron or more), the descaling frequency may need to be increased to every 2-4 weeks to effectively manage the buildup of deposits and rust.
By understanding the technical specifications and following the recommended maintenance procedures, Zojirushi water boiler owners can help extend the lifespan of their appliance and minimize the risk of rusting issues.
References
- Zojirushi.com. (n.d.). FAQ Water Boilers & Warmers. Retrieved from https://www.zojirushi.com/app/faq/water-boilers-warmers
- Zojirushi.com. (2019, July 4). I Love My New Water Boiler. Retrieved from https://www.zojirushi.com/blog/i-love-my-new-water-boiler/
- Reddit.com. (2023, January 13). Anyone have zojirushi water boiler? What to do with rust? Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/BuyItForLife/comments/10aq6fx/anyone_have_zojirushi_water_boiler_what_to_do/
- Lifehacks.StackExchange.com. (2021, July 25). How to clean “reddish/ brownish” grime/ deposit marks from the edge of a Zojirushi water boiler? Retrieved from https://lifehacks.stackexchange.com/questions/24961/how-to-clean-reddish-brownish-grime-deposit-marks-from-the-edge-of-a-zojirushi-water-boiler
- Amazon.com. (2018, September 9). Customer Questions & Answers. Retrieved from https://www.amazon.com/ask/questions/Tx15INNDMBSFZDW/