Stain Below Light

[pool512]

Is this a rust stain? I have a couple like this. Chemistry is all good now. Any recommendations for stain removal? I've seen posts recommending vitamin C or dry acid in a sock. Thanks!

 

[ajw22]

I think @1poolman1 has commented that he sees these stains coming from Pentair Amerilite lights with chrome rings.

You may have something rusting in the light niche. Put a slurry of vitamin C tablets in a sock and hold it on the stain. If the stain lightens or lifts it is an iron stain.

 

[1poolman1]

It most likely is rust. The only item in a light niche that should be able to rust is the set screw on the bond lug. They are suppose to be encapsulated with a potting compound after the bond wire is attached to prevent corrosion, but . . .
Everything else is stainless or rubber/plastic etc.

 

[pool512]

I tried the Vitamin C tablets in the sock (and even scrubbed directly on to stain), but it made no difference to the stain. Any other ideas? Thanks!

 

[pool512]

It most likely is rust. The only item in a light niche that should be able to rust is the set screw on the bond lug. They are suppose to be encapsulated with a potting compound after the bond wire is attached to prevent corrosion, but . . .
Everything else is stainless or rubber/plastic etc.

Aside from cleaning the stain, is this something I should address? I've take the lights out of the niche to clean behind, so would I find that bonding lug, maybe scrub with a wire brush, then apply some putty to encapsulate? Thanks!

 

[ajw22]

maybe scrub with a wire brush,

Do not scrub with a wire brush with steel bristles. The bristles will leave steel on what you scrub that will rust.

Use a brush with brass bristles.

I would not spend anytime on that stain.