Consumer advice center recommends: Allow tap water to drain before drinking

Consumer advice center recommends: Allow tap water to drain before drinking

The water quality in Germany is considered to be very good, but there is an important precaution when drinking tap water. Even if the water itself is of high quality, substances harmful to health can enter the water through the pipes. Stagnation water in the pipes in particular is a potential risk, as germs such as legionella can easily multiply in it. Drinking contaminated water can lead to serious infections, as explained on the website kritiksschutz.de.

To ensure that tap water is safe, the consumer advice center recommends the “4-hour rule”. This rule states that if the faucet was last used more than four hours ago, the water should be allowed to drain for a while. This simple measure helps to flush out any contaminants and make drinking water safer.

In times when water reserves are becoming scarcer, it is important to use this resource consciously. The consumer advice center advises using the water that runs off for other purposes in order to avoid wasting water. For example, the collected water can be used for watering flowers, washing dishes or cleaning. Furthermore, the use of water is becoming increasingly controversial, particularly in regions where water has already been rationed. The correct use of water and the avoidance of waste are important aspects when dealing with this vital resource.