How to clean brass radiator angle valves

John_102

just plain ammonia? Cheap & available. Soak overnight, then a brass brush. Don't know about the green crud, but that gets rid of paint.

ralman

How to clean the green crud off a leaking brass valve.

Wire brush, fine sandpaper and scotch pad isn't getting it all off. I am soaking them in soapy water now. Anything work better that what I am doing now?

Brad White

Has the leak been fixed, Ross?

You did say "leaking" so have to ask.

Brasso brass polish is what I use. It is a liquid/paste. For such heavy crud, I would leave it on for a while, maybe 10 minutes and wipe off. Repeat.

The stuff has a distinct ammonia smell to it.

I would avoid abrasive tools as long as possible.

When you are done, you can start polishing the finials on the lamps and curtain rods....

ralman

leaking valves

The leaks I am repairing and cleaning now. I have used the brasso product before but not on plumbing fixtures. Thanks, I will give it a try.

Unknown

Ross,

did you want to clean them to showpiece condition?, or just clean enough to repack and re-use?
If the latter, I just use the wire-wheel.

Dave

Mike T., Swampeast MO

Most brass radiator valves are rough finished and were NEVER intended to take a polish. Even if you did buff and polish them I can nearly guarantee that they won't stay shiny for very long even if you try something like lacquer on top.

If exposed, they were usually bronzed or painted to match the radiator.

Paul Pollets

Say Ross...

...do you do windows??



To Learn More About This Professional, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Professional"

ralman

Not trying to pass the white glove test.

They are behind covers so they don't need to be perfect. I just wanted it clean enough that after the leaks are repaired, it won't look like it is still leaking. The green buildup is stubborn to remove even with the wire wheel. My pocket knife does a better job, and is quicker. With the heaviest deposits removed, the 3M green pad cleans the rest easily. I have 32 total. Some are very clean, others have the green crud. The tailpiece and nut is the concern, I can't clean them while they are installed, there is no room to work. I hate to remove them to clean, so I was wondering if there was something to spray on, soak, wipe off.

ralman

Thanks Mike.

They are behind covers so I am not trying to shine them up. I was just trying to get the green off so they won't look like they are leaking. I checked them frequently during the heating season over the last three years, they were always dry to the touch except one, that was wet this year after turning the valve wheel. Some are green, some are not. I assume the green is from a leak. My fault for not wording the question better.

ralman

Cleaning windows.

Well... I am sure they are on the list of things that need attention here. But as long as I can keep fiddling with my heating system, I may never get to enjoy window washing and all the other pleasant tasks on the honey do list.

ralman

Thanks John

I'll have to try it. Some do have paint on them.

jim lockard_3

Try this

Soak your brass in a bath of catsup Heinz's or Hunts the choice is yours let it sit over night covered in catsup and the next morning wash it off and your brass will shine. Best Wishes J.Lockard