What can be a potential outcome if water stagnation is improper in a building?

Water stagnation occurs when water remains in the pipes or plumbing system for prolonged periods without adequate movement or turnover. This situation creates an environment conducive to the growth of various bacteria, including Legionella, which thrives in warm, stagnant water. As temperatures rise and water sits idle, nutrients can accumulate, further promoting bacterial proliferation.

This phenomenon is particularly concerning in plumbing systems because increased bacterial growth can lead to serious health risks for building occupants. Legionella, for example, can cause Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia. Therefore, managing water stagnation is critical to ensure safe and healthy water delivery within building plumbing systems.

In contrast, outcomes such as improved water quality, decreased water usage, or enhanced system efficiency do not align with the reality of stagnant water conditions. Stagnation typically leads to deteriorated water quality rather than improvement, may not directly affect water use, and can hinder system efficiency by causing blockages or pressure issues. Thus, increased bacterial growth serves as a clear and concerning consequence of improper water stagnation, highlighting the need for effective management strategies in plumbing systems.