Understanding Your Shower Head’s Green Infrared Warning

Have you ever noticed a strange green light coming from your shower head? If so, you might be wondering, “Why does my shower head emit a green infrared?” While the term ‘green infrared’ might sound intriguing, it’s important to understand that there is no such thing as ‘green infrared’. This article aims to provide a comprehensive explanation and a solution to this issue.

What is the Science Behind the Perception?

Light is categorized into different wavelengths, with visible light spanning a range from about 380 to 700 nanometers (nm).

Green light is typically found in the middle of the visible spectrum, ranging from approximately 495 to 570 nm. Red light appears at the longer end of the visible spectrum, usually between 620 to 750 nm. Infrared (IR), on the other hand, is beyond the visible spectrum, starting around 750 nm and extending to much longer wavelengths.

The confusion might arise from the fact that some shower heads are designed with multi-colored LEDs to indicate water temperature. A green LED might suggest that the water temperature is comfortable or safe to use.

Scale Buildup and Cleaning

One likely explanation for the green light could be scale buildup inside the shower head. If your shower head is getting old or has been in use for a long time, mineral deposits can accumulate, leading to a dull color or unexpected lights.

To clean your shower head, follow these steps:

Soak the shower head in a specialist cleaner, available at most home improvement stores like W.W. Fill a strong plastic bag with warm or hot water and place it around the shower head for a few hours. Ensure the water mixture can fully soak the cleaner into the shower head. After a few hours, remove the bag and give the shower head a thorough wash. The minerals and debris should now be cleaned out.

This method effectively removes the buildup and restores your shower head to its original condition.

Potential Health Concerns and Dye Leaks

Another possibility is that your water supply contains some green algae or the shower head is shedding material. However, a more concerning situation could involve the use of a fluorescent dye called fluorescein in the heating system.

Fluorescein is used to distinguish between heating and domestic hot water, which is important for leak tracing. If there is a leak between the heating system and the domestic water system, it could cause the shower water to appear green. This is not safe for consumption and may lead to serious issues with the heating system.

To check if the green color is due to this, fill a clear glass jar or bottle with some of the water and examine it in natural daylight. If it appears green, it’s best to notify your building maintenance or a professional plumber immediately.

Conclusion

Whether it’s due to scale buildup or an LED indicator, understanding the source of the green light in your shower head is crucial. By taking appropriate cleaning measures or addressing potential health concerns, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable shower experience.

Keywords: shower head, green light, infrared, green algae, scale buildup