Microscopic Risks: How Bacteria Like Legionella Can Hide in Plumbing
Most homeowners in Billings and Laurel trust their tap water to be clean and safe—but did you know harmful bacteria can sometimes lurk inside your home’s own plumbing? One of the most dangerous is Legionella, a microscopic organism that can thrive in stagnant or improperly maintained water systems.
At Brown Plumbing & Heating, we help Montana residents understand how to reduce these hidden risks and keep their water systems safe year-round. Whether you’re a homeowner or property manager, here’s what you should know about bacterial contamination in plumbing—and what you can do about it.
What Is Legionella?
Legionella pneumophila is a type of bacteria that lives in water and can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a serious form of pneumonia. It’s most dangerous when water vapor or mist containing the bacteria is inhaled—like from a shower, hot tub, or humidifier. While rare, Legionnaires’ disease can be life-threatening, especially for older adults, smokers, or people with compromised immune systems.
Where Can Bacteria Hide in Plumbing?
Bacteria like Legionella prefer warm, stagnant water and can grow inside:
Water heaters set below 120°F
Unused plumbing lines (e.g., in guest bathrooms or seasonal properties)
Showers, faucets, and aerators with scale buildup
Hot tubs or spas not properly disinfected
Cooling towers or decorative fountains
Hard water and sediment buildup, both common in the Billings and Laurel areas, can also create a more hospitable environment for bacterial growth.
Signs You Might Have a Bacterial Problem
Bacteria like Legionella don’t usually change the appearance, smell, or taste of water. However, warning signs might include:
Cloudy water or recurring discoloration
Slime or scale around faucet aerators
Water heater issues or inconsistent temperatures
Unexplained illness in people with respiratory symptoms
If someone in your household develops flu-like symptoms and has been exposed to mist or steam from plumbing fixtures, medical attention and water testing are recommended.
How to Prevent Legionella and Other Bacteria
The good news is that simple plumbing maintenance can dramatically reduce your risk:
Keep Your Water Heater Hot: Maintain your water heater at 120°F or higher. Lower temperatures may save energy but allow bacteria to grow.
Flush Unused Pipes: If a sink or shower hasn’t been used in over a week, run hot water for several minutes.
Clean Faucet Aerators: Unscrew aerators and clean them regularly to remove scale and biofilm buildup.
Schedule Regular Maintenance: Annual inspections of your water heater, pipes, and fixtures help catch problems early.
Install Point-of-Use Filters: In sensitive households, antimicrobial filters can add extra protection against bacteria.
Disinfect Systems When Needed: If your home has been vacant or you suspect contamination, professional disinfection may be required.
Local Plumbing Solutions for Safe Water
In Billings and Laurel, our local water supply is generally safe—but once water enters your home’s pipes, it becomes your responsibility. At Brown Plumbing & Heating, we help homeowners monitor, test, and maintain plumbing systems to reduce the risk of bacterial growth. From water heater service to whole-home flushing, we’ve got you covered.
Peace of Mind Starts with Prevention
Bacteria like Legionella are invisible—but the risks can be very real. Routine plumbing care, smart upgrades, and expert support can make a big difference in keeping your household safe and healthy.
Need a water heater tune-up or plumbing inspection?
📞 Call (406) 656-8585 or visit https://brownplbg.com to schedule service today. Proudly serving Billings and Laurel.
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