Descaling is the process of removing the buildup of limescale; a hard, off-white, chalky substance that impairs the operation of various components in your equipment. In the presence of heat, over time thick layers of oxide are formed on metal, for example the boiler compartment of a coffee machine. Limescale is also a prevalent byproduct found on components within ice making equipment. A descaling agent or chemical descaler is a liquid chemical substance used to remove limescale from metal surfaces. Some equipment and components are equipped with a cathodic descaler which is a passive corrosion inhibitor and which itself should be regularly cleaned and periodically replaced.