Keeping your water safe

Legionella is a type of bacteria that can grow in water systems, especially when water sits still or isn’t kept at the right temperature. In rare cases, breathing in tiny droplets of contaminated water can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a type of pneumonia. The risk in your home is low, and simple steps can help keep you safe.

How does it spread?

You can’t catch it from drinking water. The risk comes from breathing in fine water droplets, such as spray from taps or showers.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms can feel like flu, including:

• High temperature
• Cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath

If you’re worried, especially after travelling, contact NHS 111 or your GP.

Simple steps to reduce risk

• If Anchor is responsible for your water system and the temperature of your water changes, either the hot water cools down or the cold water temperature increases, please let us know. During periods of really hot weather, cold water can get hotter than the recommended 20°C. Running the cold tap for longer may help this 
• If you have a tap or shower that you do not use regularly, run the water from these taps or shower for at least two minutes every seven days 
• If you have a shower in your home, clean and descale the shower head and hose every three months 
•  Don’t switch off your immersion heater/hot water tank or change the temperature settings. Keeping these at a pre-set temperature is an important way to prevent bacteria growing 
• If you have an independent boiler in your home, make sure the thermostat on the boiler is set at 60°C (this is different to the thermostat you use for the room temperature). If unsure how to do this, you should follow the manufacturer's instructions. 

If you are away from your home for more than seven days, on your return: 

• Heat up your water system to the normal temperature for an hour before running the water 
• Run every tap for at least two minutes. 
• For showers, remove the shower head and lower the hose to the base of the shower/bath or put a plastic bag with holes in over the shower head, run it for three minutes and then use it normally. 
• Remember that when flushing taps or other outlets open them slowly so you don’t splash water or release water droplets in the air.

Making changes

You must get our written permission before making changes to your water system. Showers must be connected to the mains supply.

Using water butts safely

You’re welcome to use water butts. To reduce risk:

• Use a watering can (a watering rose is fine)
• Do not use pumps, hoses or pressure washers (anything that pressurises or sprays the water, can create tiny droplets that are easier to breathe in). 

Need to get in touch?

If you notice any issues or have concerns, please let your location manager know or contact the Customer Experience Hub on 0800 731 2020.