Unused Faucets: What You Need to Know

Germs During Prolonged Inactivity

If faucets are not used for a long period, germs and contaminants may develop in stagnant water. For example, when returning from a long holiday or extended time away, you should avoid using the tap water immediately – especially not for drinking.

Upon return, it’s advisable to let the stagnant water run for several minutes. A good rule is to flush the pipes with at least 10 liters of water. But is that enough?

Risk of Legionella

Swiss tap water is very clean, but not sterile. Stagnant water in pipes provides ideal conditions for germs – especially Legionella.

These bacteria become hazardous at high concentrations. They are not ingested through drinking, but inhaled via aerosols – tiny water droplets – which can enter the respiratory tract and cause illness.

To avoid this, it’s best to take preventive measures – ideally before you leave for an extended time.

Home and Travel Preparation: What You Can Do

One of the best steps is to shut off the water completely before going away. Just closing the faucet isn’t enough – pipes are interconnected. If bacteria form in one spot, they can spread throughout the system.

Instead, you must close the main water shut-off valve.

What Is the Main Shut-Off Valve and How to Use It?

The main shut-off valve controls the entire water supply in your home. Once closed, no water enters the system until it’s reopened.

In houses, it is typically located in the basement. In rental flats, it may be hidden in the kitchen or bathroom. When in doubt, contact your landlord.

Turning off the main valve is an important preventive measure. After returning home, reopen it and let the water run before using. However, this alone does not provide complete safety.

Only a Water Analysis Provides Full Safety

A professional lab water analysis can reliably assess your tap water’s cleanliness. A water test can be easily done at home – order the kit, take a sample, send it to the lab.

The lab analyzes the sample for pollutants, germs, and bacteria. The result provides not only a statement about purity, but also a full report on water quality.

Water analysis is recommended not only after returning from a trip but also as a preventive check – especially if you use tap water for cooking or have young children at home.

A yearly check is usually sufficient. If contamination is detected, you can trace the cause – often stagnant water or old or damaged pipes.