Tips for good quality water

We all take running water for granted, but there are some simple steps that you can take to make sure the water that you use for drinking and washing is the best quality.

Water sat in pipes can deteriorate. When you have been away for one week or longer, flush through the showers and taps for several minutes before re-use.
Do the same as above for any other taps or a shower that you only use occasionally (less than weekly).
If the hot water in your home is stored in a hot water cylinder, make sure the setting on the cylinder thermostat is at least 60 degrees Celsius. However, please take care of scalding, especially with young children, disabled or the elderly.
Keep your taps and showerheads clean so that dirt and bacteria don't build up.

Legionella Advice

Domestic hot and cold water systems can provide an environment where Legionella bacteria can grow. This can cause Legionnaires’ Disease which is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia caused by inhalation of small droplets of contaminated water containing Legionella bacteria.

Simple control measures can help manage the risk of exposure to Legionella. These include:

flushing any taps around the home that are not in regular use e.g. outside taps
whilst flushing the taps do not open them fully to prevent creating any spray
avoiding debris getting into the system e.g. ensure the cold water tanks, where fitted, have a tight-fitting lid and are clean
setting control parameters e.g. setting the temperature to ensure water is stored at 60˚C
regularly clean shower heads and taps

If your hot water is not heating properly, or if your cold water is feeling very warm, then you should advise us by calling 0330 355 1000.

For tips on cleaning your shower head, watch this video.