Turning Up the Heat on Legionella: Safe Water Heater Practices

Have you ever wondered why the temperature setting on your water heater is important? It’s not just about comfort; the temperature is also about safety. The plumbers at Mister Water Heater are often asked by our Indianapolis area water heater customers why their water needs to be at a particular temperature. The answer ties back to a bacterium called legionella. It’s a common inhabitant of our water system that poses serious health risks when not properly managed.

What Is Legionella?

Legionella are bacteria found naturally in freshwater environments like lakes and streams. However, they become a health concern when they grow and spread in human-made water systems, including hot tubs, cooling towers, and water heaters.

If inhaled in aerosol form, such as through steam or mist from a contaminated water source, legionella can cause Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia. It can also lead to Pontiac fever, a less severe respiratory disease.

Water Heaters and Legionella

Water heaters can become breeding grounds for legionella if not maintained at the right temperatures. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests keeping water heaters set at a minimum of 120°F to prevent legionella growth. However, it is crucial to balance this with the risk of scalding, especially in homes with vulnerable individuals.

Best Practices for Water Heater Safety

Ensuring your water heater is correctly installed and regularly maintained can significantly reduce the risk of legionella growth. This includes routine inspections for any sediments or malfunctions and ensuring the temperature is correctly set according to safety guidelines.

It’s important to find professionals who know how to provide water heater services properly. That’s why homeowners in the Indianapolis, Fishers, and Brownsburg areas have trusted Mister Water Heater for water heater repair and water heater installations for the last 60 years. Choosing a professional plumber to handle your water heater needs can safeguard your home against legionella risks.

Understanding and preventing the growth of legionella in your water heater is essential for health and safety. If you're in the Indianapolis area and are considering a new water heater, 24/7 emergency service, or have questions about how to best maintain your unit, Mister Water Heater is just a call away. Contact us at (833) 270-8502 or request service online today!

“How Legionella Spreads,” U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, last modified Jan. 29, 2024, accessed July 25, 2024, https://www.cdc.gov/legionella/causes/index.html.