Bacteria can grow in water that is left in pipe work for periods of time. Sometimes this can develop into Legionella bacteria.
Legionnaires’ is a disease which affects the lungs and can be contracted if droplets of water containing bacteria are inhaled.
To prevent bacteria from growing, it is extremely important to follow these top tips to make sure the water in your home is safe.
This is especially important in the summer months as standing water will be in the temperature range that bacteria prefers.
Top tips:
- Always flush toilets and run hot and cold taps when you return from a holiday or if you move into a new property
- All water taps and showers that are not used often should be run for at least two minutes each week
- When flushing taps and other outlets, open slowly and take care not to cause splashing or release spray droplets into the atmosphere
- Clean and descale all taps and shower heads at least every three months
- Leave water heaters, immersion heaters on water tanks and boilers on
- Cold water needs to be at temperatures lower than 20c
- Hot water needs to be above 50c when it comes through taps or showers
- Set hot water thermostats, immersion heaters, and hot water boiler temperatures to 60c
- Report any issues to us immediately by calling 0121 717 1515
