Whirlpool Tub Can Be Hotbed of Infections

Question: We’re buying a home with a Jacuzzi bathtub, and our home inspector warned us about health hazards resulting from bacteria in the whirlpool plumbing. Is this something that warrants serious concern? If so, what can we do to protect ourselves?

Answer: Infections and illnesses of various types have been linked, in recent years, to the use of hot tubs and whirlpool bathtubs. In some cases, whirlpool-related infections have involved bacteria that are resistant to known antibiotics. Reported ailments include infections to the skin, eyes, lungs, kidneys, bladder and reproductive organs. In one instance, an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease was documented. In response to this, updated warnings have been released by the Consumer Products Safety Commission in Washington, D.C.

The main source of bacterial growth in whirlpool tubs is the residue that accumulates in the piping. These substances include soap film, body secretions, skin, hair, bath oils and dirt. When these organic substances combine with minerals in the water, they congeal and coat the lining of the water piping and other components of the whirlpool system. The warm, dark environment is ideal for the growth of infectious microorganisms.

To eliminate this bacterial culture from your tub, it is recommended that the system be cleaned regularly. Be aware, however, that normal household disinfectants and cleaners such as bleach, detergents, vinegar or baking soda are not completely effective in removing whirlpool contaminants.

Whirlpool manufacturers recommend operating the system for about 15 minutes with hot water and a solution of common dishwasher detergent. This has been found to be effective in dislodging contaminants. After draining, the system should be rinsed by operating the system with clear cool water.

There are also companies that professionally clean whirlpool systems using specially formulated cleaners. The bottom line, however, is to be aware of possible health hazards and clean your whirlpool system or have it cleaned on a regular basis. For further details regarding the proper cleaning and maintenance of your unit, contact the manufacturer.

Even Small Building Should Be Up to Code

Q: A home inspector recently cited the workshop building in my backyard for violations involving the electrical wiring and sink plumbing. He recommended that I obtain a building permit and have the construction approved by the city. I checked the building code and found that detached accessory buildings do not require permits if they are smaller than 120 square feet.

How can I convince the inspector that the workshop is exempt from code requirements? I want to sell my house and would like to resolve this before it goes on the market.

A: It is true that small accessory buildings, in many instances, can be constructed without building permits. But there are three errors in your position, two of which indicate that your reading of the building code may have been selective and incomplete.

To begin with, even when construction work is exempt from building permit requirements, such exemption does not include electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems. The building code is specific on this point, requiring permits for all plumbing and electrical construction to maintain adequate health and safety conditions.

Furthermore, the code plainly stipulates that exemption from building permit requirements does not grant authority to an owner or builder to violate any building code provisions. You may be allowed to construct a small building without a permit, but you are still required to perform all aspects of the work in full compliance with all code specifications.

Finally, there is an aspect of this issue that transcends specific code considerations: Regardless of any legal mandates, you should exercise a proactive concern for the general health and safety of anyone who might use your workshop building.

The purpose of the building code is “ . . . to provide minimum standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property and public welfare. . . .” Avoidance of these standards on the basis of a technical exemption or other legal loophole demonstrates an unfortunate and ill-advised approach.

My advice is to err on the side of safety and common sense. As noted above, the building code is a “minimum standard.”

Compliance with its provisions is the very least a builder or property owner can do to maintain safe conditions for the benefit of everyone.

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If you have questions or comments, contact Barry Stone through his Web site at https://www.housedetective.com.

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