What Is Stagnation and How Does It Impact Legionella Control
Stagnation is a hidden danger that could turn non-circulating water into a breeding ground for Legionella. Stagnation happens when water stops flowing in your pipes. You might notice it in parts of a building that aren’t frequently used—like empty offices, guest rooms, or even bathrooms that rarely get flushed. However, it can also happen if certain sections of a plumbing or water treatment system are shut off or poorly designed. Automated water flushing and hot water loop control is a one technical solution for this problem.
Why Stagnation Is Bad News for Legionella Control
Legionella bacteria can be found in water naturally, but they become increasingly dangerous when they grow and multiply in water systems. Why stagnant water increases your risk substantially:
1. Warm Water Is a Perfect Playground
Legionella loves warm water, particularly between 20-50°C (68-122°F). When water stagnates, it tends to sit in one place, which means it can heat up (say, in pipes near a heater or in the sun). This creates the perfect environment for Legionella to multiply. The longer the water sits, the more bacteria can grow, increasing the risk of infection.
2. Biofilms: The Ultimate Bacteria Hideout
In stagnant water, bacteria can form biofilms—a slimy layer that attaches to the inside of pipes and fixtures. These biofilms protect Legionella from disinfectants like chlorine, making it much harder to kill. It’s like bacteria building a fortress where they can hide out, even when you’re trying to disinfect your system.
3. Bacteria Feast on Sediment
When water stagnates, debris, sediment, and organic matter start to build up in the pipes. Guess what? Legionella loves this stuff. It uses the nutrients in the sediment to grow and thrive. So, if your system has any buildup, it’s essentially providing a buffet for bacteria.
4. Disinfection Becomes Less Effective
The longer water stagnates, the harder it is for disinfectants to do their job. The bacteria hide in the biofilms and sediment, meaning chemicals like chlorine or chlorine dioxide might not be able to reach them effectively. This leaves Legionella more time to grow and spread.
5. Aerosolized Water Can Spread the Bacteria
When you finally use the water after it’s been sitting stagnant, it can create tiny droplets or aerosols that might contain Legionella bacteria. These droplets can be inhaled into the lungs, leading to Legionnaires’ disease, especially in people who are more vulnerable, like the elderly or those with weakened immune systems.
We can help you with your Legionella risk assessment, Legionella testing, Legionella remediation, and everything else you need to control Legionella. Contact a Legionella Control Systems expert now.
