[Equipment] COCA-COLA TO CLEAN HUMIDIFIER

[srlevine1]

Occasionally, I use tap water in my humidifier water chamber. If I see a mineral build-up, I can remedy the situation with a vinegar soak. A friend of mine observed me pouring vinegar in the chamber and suggested the use of one can of a carbonated beverage, specifically Coca-Cola.

Since I am not fond of the vinegar smell which dissipates in a few hours, I was wondering if anyone else uses soda to de-mineralize their water chambers?

[SarcasticDave94]

I suppose it could do it. When I was growing up, I remember an uncle using Coke to clean the car's battery terminals. And yet we drink that stuff.

[Coffee Man]

Any acidic liquid would remove buildups in the humidifier due to mineral deposits. Vinegar, Coca-cola, lemon juice would all work.

[Crimson Nape]

If you do try it, don't let it soak for long. Most acids attack the zinc in aluminum. You have a chance of pitting the tub bottom that will provide a "tooth" for calcium to stick in the future.

As a side note: We used Coke back in the 50s and 60s to remove road film and gasoline off the windshield. The gasoline removed the road tar. Coke was cheaper and more readily available than any product you could buy.

[srlevine1]

I will try it and report back.

UPDATE: It appears to work as well as vinegar, albeit more expensive, and smells much better, at least to me. I think that I will continue the practice being mindful of @Crimson Nape's warning about not soaking too long.