Margaret Elizabeth Wade

Ms. Margaret Elizabeth Wade


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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15 May 2025 in Microorganisms
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
BBBrookes Brookes
Brookes Brookes
HSHelena Senior
Helena Senior
RGRebecca J. Gosling
Rebecca J. Gosling
DSDuncan Smith
Duncan Smith
MWMargaret Elizabeth Wade
Margaret Elizabeth Wade
It is anticipated that by 2028 there will be a significant increase in the use of HWHP systems in Great Britain (GB). Such systems are considered a better, energy-efficient alternative to fossil fuel-based burners and furnaces, as they use electricity. There are concerns that these systems are susceptible to microbial contamination because they hold water at lower temperatures. In particular, the concern is regarding Legionella contamination, as it can potentially cause disease in the general public and those who are maintaining and replacing these systems. Therefore, this review was focused on understanding the potential risk posed by their increased use and maintenance requirements. This review was approached systematically but was not a full systematic review. There were 61 papers that were considered potentially relevant to the research questions. Of these, 40 papers were considered relevant to the topic of Legionella in HWHP and underwent full article assessment and data extraction. The remaining papers were considered useful for background information. The scope of this review established that Legionella are a known risk in hot water systems that can be carried over to HWHP systems, yet there is minimal evidence to suggest that the current control measures are being appropriately applied to reduce the risk of exposure. When considering countrywide legislation and guidance, it appears that the risk is considered lower in single- or multi-family homes that do not require a centralised system. This review included the assessment of information regarding the safety of working with HWHP systems with regards to maintenance and replacement. The authors found a lack of information regarding these safety concerns. This review is among the first to systematically evaluate the risks of Legionella contamination in HWHP systems.