To prevent growth of the legionella bacteria in showerheads, it must be treated with water at least 70 degrees hot. The legionella bacteria can occur in shower heads and water pipes where water stands still over longer periods of time. The disease can not spread between humans.Tenants should boil the shower head once per year.
When returning from a longer vacation, or have moved into a new apartment, you should do the following:
- Unscrew the shower head from the hose. Make sure the rubber seal between the hose and the shower head doesn't disappear.
- Bring a casserole of water to a boil, and turn the heat off. Put the shower head into the water, with the whole head covered.
- Leave the shower head in the water for five minutes. If you can't fit the entire shower head, move it around so everything is covered.
- Connect the shower head and the hose. Make sure the rubber seal is in place. Tighten the connection properly to prevent leaks