Why Summer Maintenance Makes Sense
"Legionella bacteria thrive in warm, stagnant water—making summer the most critical time for proactive testing and maintenance"
The TEC Approach: Tailored, Trusted, and Timely
As temperatures rise and buildings quiet down for the summer holidays, it’s the ideal opportunity to prioritise legionella testing and water system maintenance. Whether you’re managing a school, healthcare facility, or commercial property, summer presents a unique window to stay ahead of compliance and protect public health. At Total Environmental Compliance (TEC), we understand the importance of aligning water system maintenance with quieter periods to minimise disruption. Here’s why summer should be your priority season for legionella management.
The summer risk factor
Legionella bacteria thrive in warm, stagnant water – typically between 20°C and 45°C. During the summer months, unused or underused water systems become breeding grounds for bacteria. Without regular flushing or monitoring, the risk of Legionnaires’ disease increases significantly, particularly in buildings with reduced occupancy.
For educational institutions especially, the summer holidays present both a challenge and an opportunity. While reduced water usage creates ideal conditions for bacterial growth, the empty buildings provide the perfect environment for comprehensive maintenance work.
Why summer maintenance makes sense
Reduced water usage creates higher risk: During holiday periods, water systems in schools and offices often sit unused, leading to stagnation in pipes and tanks. This stagnant water, combined with warmer temperatures, creates perfect conditions for legionella bacteria to multiply. Tackling this risk proactively prevents potential outbreaks when buildings reopen. Complete access for engineers: With classrooms and dorms empty and corridors clear, our engineers can access all areas of the building without interrupting daily activities. This allows for more thorough inspections, comprehensive testing, and extensive remedial work that would be disruptive during term time.
Safety before return: By completing checks and maintenance during the break, organisations can ensure that any issues are identified and resolved before staff and visitors return. This proactive approach protects everyone from health risks associated with Legionnaires’ disease.
Regulatory compliance: Educational establishments and commercial properties have legal duties under health and safety regulations – including the Health and Safety at Work Act and COSHH – to manage legionella risks. Scheduling comprehensive works during summer helps maintain compliance and avoid costly penalties.
Essential summer works
The summer period is ideal for completing more disruptive or time-consuming tasks that are difficult to manage during busy operational periods:
- Tank cleaning and disinfection – thorough cleaning of water storage systems
- Comprehensive remedial works – addressing identified risks and defects
- TMV servicing and calibration – ensuring thermostatic mixing valves operate correctly
- Water treatment system maintenance – servicing dosing systems and monitoring equipment
- Lifecycle asset replacement – upgrading aging components before failure
- Complete risk assessment reviews – updating documentation and management procedures
These activities are significantly easier to carry out when buildings are empty, ensuring a smooth and safe return for everyone in September.
The TEC approach
Our experienced team works closely with facilities managers and compliance officers to plan summer maintenance programmes that maximise efficiency while minimising disruption. We understand the pressures of educational calendars and commercial operations, tailoring our services to fit your specific requirements.
We’ve successfully completed hundreds of summer maintenance contracts across all sectors, helping organisations maintain compliance while protecting their most valuable assets – their people.
Planning ahead
Summer maintenance planning should ideally begin well in advance. Smart organisations across the UK recognise the value of summer maintenance programmes, with many of our established clients booking their annual slots months ahead to secure preferred dates.
Our team work with you to develop comprehensive programmes that address all your water safety requirements within available timeframes.
The investment in summer maintenance pays dividends through reduced operational disruption, maintained compliance, and most importantly, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your water systems are safe.
<Limited number of slots available – book yours here>
Partner with water safety experts
The trusted water partner for hundreds of organisations, TEC brings 30 years of specialised experience to support your operations. Our team of qualified engineers and technicians provides comprehensive management solutions, from risk assessment and maintenance programmes to emergency response services.
Get in touch with TEC today to schedule your maintenance and ensure your building is safe, compliant, and ready for the new term. Call us at 01536 650601 or email info@tecompliance.co.ukto schedule a consultation with our specialists.
