Stainless steel care

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR STAINLESS STEEL CARE

Ladders, stairs, railings, handles, overflow gutter grilles, showers and many other components in or around the pool are made of stainless steel. And for good reason: Various kinds of steel, which are commonly referred to as “stainless steel“, are particularly suitable for use in this area due to their corrosion resistance. However, stainless steel also requires professional care to ensure lasting resistance.

Stainless steels are far more corrosion resistant than many other metals. Through oxidation, the chromium component forms a protective film on its surface – the passive layer. It develops again and again through the effects of oxygen, even after damage, and protects the component from negative influences. If this protective film can no longer form again, stainless steel loses its rust resistance.

Dirt is deposited on stainless steel in the swimming pool area and chlorides are accumulated, preventing the formation of a new passive layer. In the long run this leads to pitting or rusting. The components should therefore be regularly cleaned of residues. On stainless steel parts that are not constantly in contact with swimming pool water, you can remove deposits with commercially available stainless steel cleaner and a cloth/sponge or rinse off with tap water. Do not use cleaning agents containing hydrochloric acid or chloride and do not use metallic objects such as cleaning pads or steel wool! The surfaces of stainless steel parts that lie under water can be cleaned by simply rubbing them with no additives.

In principle, all stainless steel parts should be maintained at regular intervals. If the water quality is unproblematic, it is sufficient to clean it twice a year. If your swimming pool is operated at high temperatures, the pH value of the water is very low or the swimming pool water contains salt, the installed stainless steel parts should be cleaned at least once a month. For the first harmless spots of corrosion, a slightly acidic special stainless steel cleaner, available from specialist swimming pool dealers, can be used. Read the instructions for use carefully and rinse the stainless steel parts with fresh water.

The proper removal of deposits prevents rust formation on stainless steel. The quality of the surface plays an important role: the smoother the stainless steel, the easier it is to clean. We recommend electropolished surfaces for highly stressed components in swimming pools!