Your Gutters Could Be the Entryway for Legionnaires’ Disease

Legionella Pneumophila Could Be Breeding in Your Gutters

If you like cleaning your gutters, you must be one of the few that enjoy it. Gutter cleaning isn’t a fun task. It’s something that’s done because it needs to get done. Gutters are meant to divert water away from your home, but if they’re clogged, they cannot do that.

We know that clogged gutters can lead to a variety of problems in your home, including foundation problems. And not cleaning your gutters could have other consequences that could even affect your health.

Legionnaires disease is caused by Legionella Pneumophila, a type of bacteria. This disease comes with a variety of symptoms, such as aching joints, headaches, lack of appetite, a drop in energy levels, chills, severe chest pain, and difficulty breathing. High fevers can also accompany it, which could be as high a 105F degrees.

Does It Grow in Your Gutters?

Yes. It does. Stagnant water in your clogged gutters is the perfect environment for legionella to grow in, especially in temperatures between 68F and 122F degrees.

Another factor that may promote the growth of this bacteria is the sediment that insects and leaves help create. This encourages the growth of algae, pseudomonas, and flavobacteria, all of which are essential for legionella to grow.

Preventing Legionnaires’ Disease

The most effective way to get rid of this problem is to clean your gutters regularly. The longer you spend without cleaning them, the more likely it is that legionella has a chance to grow and affect your health.

Gutter cleaning requires a high level of attention and care when it’s performed to avoid infection. To ensure the safety or your Denver home, with high-quality results, the best approach is to call a professional home services provider that specializes in gutter cleaning. Don’t wait any longer.