Removing and Preventing Uric Acid Scale in Urinals

Uric acid scale frequently builds up in conventional water-based urinals located in high-traffic restrooms.

The mineral build-up forms when urine combines with flush water. The scale most often accumulates directly underneath waterspouts and water disbursement rims in urinals, creating both an unsightly appearance and unpleasant odors. The scale can also build up on the floors directly below the urinal.

Cleaning professionals consider removing this scale one of their most challenging cleaning tasks. Making matters worse, the longer the scale remains on the urinal or the floor below, the more difficult it becomes to remove.

Standard cleaning products are usually not effective against uric scale. For example, regular all-purpose spray cleaners, sanitizers, and disinfectants fail to dissolve the deposits. Scrubbing with powder cleaners and scouring pads also can damage the urinal’s inner bowl glazed surface and water disbursement rims.

Enzymatic cleaners are often the most effective cleaning solution because they:

• Effectively break down uric acid scale, mineral deposits, and related odors.
• Are usually easy to apply.
• Have a neutral pH, making them safe to use per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Waterless Co. Inc. offered this step-by-step cleaning process:

• Wear protective gloves and goggles.
• Remove any screens and debris from the urinal.
• Flush the urinal once or twice before cleaning.
• Apply the enzymatic cleaner thoroughly using a spray cleaner; focus on the problem areas right below the waterspouts.
• Allow 5-10 minutes for the enzymes to work.
• Wipe clean then flush.
• Repeat if necessary (may take more than one application).

Once the uric scale is removed, the urinal can be cleaned as usual using a sanitizing or disinfecting cleaning solution.