Rectifying Legionella risk when it takes over a minute to get to 50 degreesC
Maintenance

Touchwood
Touchwood
0 Thanks
20 Posts
8 months ago
0

I have done this year's risk assessment for Legionella... and then found that the TENANT factsheet answered a question I'd had in my mind before: how LONG should it take for the water to reach 50 degreesC? The tenant factsheet says within 1 minute, and some of my properties take longer... the outlet further from the boiler which IS set at recommended 60degreesC.
What have others done when this has been an issue and how did they rectify this? I think it also depends on how fast the water is flowing from the tap, perhaps I don't turn it on fast enough, but I believe when you turn it too fast it can then be colder as not heated quickly enough by the boiler.
Any help appreciated... especially re flow rates and also how to overcome the 'within a minute' rule.
If anyone wants to go further ... toilets and cisterns can also contain Legionella, I now add that to what I send to my tenants saying: ''Legionella risk assessment does NOT include the toilet (with its storage cistern), however I DO include it here as it is a possible source of infection if you are away a week or more. Flush it, with the cover down and leave the room for a time afterwards as aerosols are produced and can escape between the rim and seat (!)''.
Anyone any further comments on this? .... I'm wondering if what I may do personally is put bleach in my own cistern (as well as down toilet) when I go on holiday, at least with the cistern that is easy to lift the lid from (the other one is very difficult)!
.... and what about the risk when cleaning out drains/U-bends which I've had to do recently.  Assume legionella can also hide there, so it's really important to guard against any splashing.

Please Login

You must be logged in to participate in our forums, to continue please login below.

Not a member? From only £99 you can join in the discussion and get access to member's only resources and services.

As the home for landlords, the NRLA are here to help you save time, save money, and stay compliant. NRLA membership gives you access to a vast range of expertise, resources, and exclusive member benefits and savings, designed to help and empower members. We also play a pivotal role in campaigning and championing the interests of landlords.