Before you drink - run your tap for a few minutes to flush through any water which has stood in pipework for a period of time, especially if you have lead pipes.
Simply running your taps for a few minutes will help to ensure that the levels of any common pipework metals, such as copper or lead, are reduced. Occasionally, tastes and odours can develop if water is left to stand in certain types of pipework - running water off as described above will help to minimise these.
How long should I run the tap for?
As a rough guide, when the water from the tap runs cold, and stays cold, you can be confident that you are bringing water in from the water main supplying your property.
How do I find out more about lead pipework?
As a general guide, properties built after 1970 are unlikely to have lead pipework. Further information on lead and lead pipework.
Waterwise tip
There is no need to waste the water; it can be used in the garden or for household plants.