Tarnished Plumbing Fixtures

[JerryBob]

Getting ready to install a new toilet this weekend. It bothers me to know that 6 months from now, the nice, shiny water supply line (I don't like the flexible hoses), and new valve/wall plate will be rusted and tarnished.

Short of buying really high-end stainless (do they even make these?), are there any tricks to prevent this? I think tarnished/rusted fixtures look unsightly in an otherwise clean home. Seems like the parts you buy at Home Depot are just junk.

I thought about coating them with shellac, or some automotive wax, but am not sure.

Has anyone successfully dealt with this? Also, is there anyway to clean the tarnish off the other two bathroom plumbing fixtures. #2000 grit wet/dry?

 

[Merkava_4]

Never-Dull is good stuff for removing tarnish, but it needs to be a smooth surface.

I used to shine up my brass sprinkler nozzles when I was really really bored.

 

[Papa Bear]

I like shiny flexible hoses.

Use a plastic wall plate (chromed) and it won't rust.

 

[Charlie1935]

Get an assortment of metal polish and/or light abrasive pads and rags and give to them to the wife for a present.

 

[doitmyself]

Go to a plumbing supply shop (jobber) and buy commercial quality parts that are used in public restrooms, hotels, etc..

Ferguson is one company that caters to both the pros and homeowners.

WW Graingers handles better quality parts also.

Polishes will be a never ending maintenance band aid.

 

[larryinnewyork]

I agree, copper pipe that is tarnishing looks sloppy / dirty.

I just replaced a faucet in my garage sink (very handy to have). The copper pipe / elbows are actually above the faucet and very visible.

I put 2 coats of an auto Paste Wax/Cleaner on the copper.
Can't hurt, time will tell.

 

[HTSS_TR]

Originally Posted By: Papa Bear
I like shiny flexible hoses.

Use a plastic wall plate (chromed) and it won't rust.

I had plumber replaced to shut-off valves and hoses under the kitchen sink, bathroom sinks with shiny flexible hoses (stainless steel ?) some years ago, it looked as brand new last week when I checked it.

 

[JerryBob]

I buy the silver-colored water supply lines at Home Depot. I guess it is plated copper, because the greenish copper tarnish seems to leak through.

I'll look at the Ferguson. Thanks.