measures for drinking water hygiene in case of prolonged absence
measures for drinking water hygiene in case of prolonged absence
Unfortunately, few people are aware of the proper handling of our drinking water when it comes to the hygienic safety of our drinking water. Here, we are just as responsible as the municipal waterworks. To ensure hygienically safe drinking water, water pipes must be used every 72 hours at the latest. This applies to both businesses and private households. This means that measures must be taken as early as the extended weekend or temporary closures of offices or individual floors. Non-use of drinking water installations leads to stagnation and greatly increases the risk of microbial contamination with legionella and other pathogenic germs.
In plain language: Each water pipe must be used at the end point every 3 days. This means running both hot and cold water individually for about 30 seconds at each tap. Also flush the toilet cisterns. If this is not possible, preventive and aftercare measures must be taken according to DVGW guidelines. These are explained in more detail below.
Preventive measures in case of absence
Forlonger than 72 hours
Shut off appliances connected to the drinking water pipe (water filters, washing machines, dishwashers, etc.) Switch off hot water boilers and cooling appliances if necessary to save energy. Note that the hot water pipe must be completely emptied to avoid slow cooling, which is favourable for legionella.
Forlonger than 4 weeks
Shut off the main water supply. Switch off hot water boilers and circulation pumps.
LEOGANT water system measure: Remove and dispose of filter cartridges from water filters and dispensers. Emptying the pipes.
Longer than 1 year
Professionally disconnect the house connection line from the supply line.
Measures for recommissioning
Longer than 72 hours
Several tapping points throughout the building must be opened simultaneously to ensure a sufficiently strong flow through the distribution pipes. Flushing must be carried out for both the cold and hot water lines.
Action LEOGANT water system: Let the water run for at least 10 minutes. If several taps are connected to one system, make sure to open all taps at the same time. Disinfect the outlet and fittings with a spray disinfectant.
Longer than 4 weeks
When the unit is put back into operation after 4 weeks, a complete water exchange must be carried out at all tapping points by flushing with water in accordance with DVGW worksheet 557. Flushing must be carried out for both the cold and hot water pipes. The hot water line must be flushed with an operating temperature of > 55°C.
LEOGANT water system measure: Disinfection and cleaning of the filter housings, tapping points and pipes. Insert new filter cartridges. Let the water run for at least 10 minutes.
Longer than 6 months
In addition, a microbiological examination of the drinking water must be carried out according to TrinkwV.
About the author:
Thomas Hartwig is a certified medical nutritionist and founder of the company Leogant. For many years he has been intensively involved with the element of water. He is a valued keynote speaker and guest on podcasts, where he shares his knowledge and experience. In his work he combines findings from natural science and medicine with philosophical approaches to contribute to a holistic water awareness.