Many people will be heading away on holiday over the summer. If your home has been empty for a week or more, it’s important to take a few simple steps when you return to help keep your water safe.
What is Legionella?
Legionella is a type of bacteria that can be found in water systems. In certain conditions, it can multiply and potentially cause Legionnaires’ disease, a serious form of pneumonia. People can become ill by breathing in tiny droplets of water containing the bacteria, such as from showers, taps or other water outlets.
The good news is that the risk of catching Legionnaires’ disease in your home is very low. However, stagnant water that has been sitting in pipes or tanks for long periods can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
Why does going on holiday matter?
When water isn’t used regularly, it can sit in pipes and outlets for days or weeks at a time. This can create conditions that allow bacteria to grow, particularly if water temperatures sit between 20°C and 45°C.
If you’ve been away from home for a week or longer, we recommend flushing your water system when you return.
How to flush your water safely
When you get back from holiday:
- Run all hot and cold taps for at least five minutes
- Turn taps on slowly to avoid splashing water
- Flush toilets several times
- Run showers for at least five minutes
- If possible, remove the showerhead before flushing
- If you cannot remove the showerhead, wrap it in a towel or cloth
- Leave the room while the shower is running and keep the door closed
These simple steps help replace any stagnant water with fresh water from the mains supply.
Other ways to reduce the risk
You can also help keep your water safe throughout the year by:
- Running all taps, showers and toilets at least once a week
- Cleaning showerheads and hoses every three months
- Ensuring hot water is stored at 50°C or above
- Ensuring cold water remains below 20°C where possible
If you live in one of our sheltered or retirement courts, we carry out regular water temperature monitoring and may occasionally require access to your home to carry out these checks.
Need more advice?
If you have any concerns about water safety in your home, please get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help.
