As temperatures rise across the South West, we’re reminding customers how to keep their homes safe from Legionella bacteria.
Legionella is a type of bacteria that can be found in natural water sources and home water systems. It can multiply in warm, stagnant water, particularly between 20°C and 45°C. During hot weather, even cold water can warm up into this range, increasing the risk of bacteria growth.
While the risk in homes is low, Legionella can cause a serious illness called Legionnaires’ disease if contaminated water droplets are breathed in, rather than drunk.
How to keep your home safe
There are a few simple steps you can take to reduce the risk and keep your water system safe:
Keep water moving
Using taps, showers and other outlets regularly helps prevent water from becoming stagnant. Water that sits still for long periods can allow bacteria to grow.
Keep outlets clean
Limescale and debris can create places for bacteria to grow. Cleaning and descaling shower heads and taps regularly helps remove these conditions.
Take care outdoors
In warmer weather, items such as water butts, paddling pools and hosepipes can hold warm, stagnant water. Emptying or refreshing this water regularly reduces the risk of bacteria developing.
Going away this summer?
If you’re heading away on holiday, it’s important to flush your water system when you return.
If your home has been empty for more than a week, you should run all taps, showers and outlets for several minutes before using them. This helps flush out any water that has been sitting in the pipes.
When doing this, turn taps on slowly at first and avoid creating spray or vapour. Legionella bacteria are only harmful when inhaled in water droplets.
We’re here to help
Taking these small steps can make a big difference in keeping your home safe, particularly during periods of hot weather.
If you notice any problems with your water temperature, pressure or quality, please get in touch with us so we can help.