Plumbing and legionella
The most effective way to reduce the risk of Legionella is to have a good prevention programme. Legionella bacteria multiply at temperatures between about 20°C and 45°C, so it is important to monitor the temperature of both hot and cold water.
- The leaving temperature of hot water shall not be less than 55 degrees centigrade and the temperature of stagnant water such as water heaters shall be at least 60 degrees centigrade.
- The temperature of the DHW should be at least 50 degrees and a tip is to install a circulation pump that can be used to adjust the temperature!
- Remember to also check the temperature of the cold water. The temperature of the cold water at the tap should be a maximum of 18°C to avoid the risk of legionella.
- Check that the thermostatic mixers have non-return valves so that the hot water is not pushed out to the cold water pipe.
- Towel dryers and underfloor heating do not have a high enough water temperature and should therefore not be connected to the plumbing system.
- Last but not least, the pipes for the plumbing system should be insulated and, as a preventive measure, so-called dead ends in the pipework should be removed where there may be stagnant water.
Contact us at when you need advice on the heating systems in your business!