What is a common practice to reduce the growth of Legionella in water systems during periods of stagnation?

Flushing the system regularly is a vital practice to control the growth of Legionella, especially during periods of stagnation in water systems. When water sits idle, it can create conditions favorable for Legionella and other bacteria to multiply. Regular flushing helps to ensure that fresh water circulates throughout the system, which reduces the time water stands still and minimizes the risk of stagnation. Additionally, flushing helps to remove sediment and biofilms where bacteria might thrive, ensuring that the water is maintained at a quality that is less conducive to microbial growth.

The effectiveness of regular flushing is reinforced by routine protocols in building management and water safety plans, particularly in systems that are prone to periods of low usage, such as in hotels, schools, or other facilities. This preventive measure is crucial in maintaining water quality and preventing the potential risk associated with Legionella exposure.

In contrast, other methods like altering water temperature or continuously adding chemicals may have specific applications but do not address the issue of stagnation as directly as flushing does. Additionally, excessive chlorination can lead to other water quality issues, while reducing water pressure might exacerbate stagnation instead of preventing it.