Energy costs push many businesses to reduce heating and hot water settings. That is understandable, but water that is stored or delivered too cool can create the conditions where legionella bacteria multiply.
Where energy saving can go wrong
- Lower hot water storage temperatures in cylinders or calorifiers.
- Switching off hot water circulation pumps overnight or at weekends.
- Heating buildings less, letting pipework and cold water tanks drift warmer or cooler than intended.
- Shutting down parts of a building without flushing or draining the water system.
How to save energy safely
- Talk to your legionella adviser first. Your risk assessment sets the temperatures your system should hold. See our guide on water temperatures.
- Insulate pipes and tanks. This saves heat without lowering temperatures.
- Remove unused pipework so you are not heating or storing water you do not need.
- Plan for closed areas. Isolate or flush them properly. See dead legs and little-used outlets.
- Record changes in your legionella logbook and review the risk assessment afterwards.
Your duties
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers must manage risks to health. The HPSC national guidelines for the control of legionellosis in Ireland give practical advice for hot and cold water systems.
Talk to Safer Solutions
Thinking of changing your hot water settings? Ask for a legionella risk assessment first so savings do not become a risk. Call 086 275 9728 or email info@safersolutions.ie.