Water Hygiene
It's important to be aware of of the possible causes and symptoms of Legionnaire’s Disease, so you can identify any problems easily and report concerns to us.
What is Legionnaire’s Disease?
Legionnaire’s Disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia, which can affect anyone.
It's caused by breathing in water droplets from contaminated sources containing legionella bacteria.
All water systems in residential properties are a potential source for legionella bacteria growth. The main areas of risk are where the bacteria can multiply and increase to dangerous levels and then spread, such as in spray from showers and taps, dishwashers and washing machine pipes.
Conditions enabling this bacteria to breed are where water of between 20°C and 45°C gathers, and where there is sludge, rust and scale present for the bacteria to feed upon and multiply.
Who's at risk?
Legionnaire’s Disease most commonly affects older people, and people with chest or lung problems. Not everyone exposed to legionella bacteria becomes ill. It isn’t contagious and you can't get it from drinking water.
How can I stay safe?
• Flush through showers and taps for 10 minutes following a period of no use (i.e. after you have been on holiday or if a room is not in regular use)
• Keep all shower heads and taps clean and free from a build-up of lime scale, mould or algae growth
• Keep hot water on your boiler system at a temperature of 50°C or more
If anyone in your home isn't 'temperature aware' call us 0300 123 1222 to see if a temperature regulator could be fitted in your property.