(DePaul University/Jeff Carrion)Planning an unavoidable visit to an office that has been shut down for several weeks? Please review this notice from Facility Operations on water quality assurance.
Departmental Office Area Kitchen Recommendations:
- The applicability of the following recommendations varies depending on if (and how frequently) office kitchen appliances were utilized during the COVID-19 closure period. Any equipment not utilized for at least several weeks should be thoroughly cleaned prior to resumption of normal use:
- Kitchen sinks: Occupants are advised to simply run both the hot and cold water taps for at least three minutes each to flush out the lines and to circulate water through any small point of use hot water heaters that might be servicing the sink.
- Dishwashers: Occupants are advised to run at least one cycle, using the proper soap, and without any dishes in the machine to both clean the machine internally and to remove any stagnant water that might be in the supply line and in the drainage system.
- Refrigerators with ice/water functions: Occupants are advised to dispense several large cups of water through the old filter to remove any sediment in the water line. Then replace the replace water filter in the refrigerator (if applicable) and continue to flush the water line as per the instructions that came with the replacement water filter. Finally, make and discard at least two batches of ice.
- Coffee machines plumbed with a water line: Occupants are advised to place a service call with the company supplying the machine. Have the coffee service technician properly flush the machine’s internal reservoir and change any filters, which may be in-line with the water supply.
- Standalone coffee machines: Occupants are advised that any coffee machine with an internal water reservoir should be cleaned and flushed as per the instructions provided in the owner’s manual. Instructions for cleaning Keurig machines, in particular, are also available online.
- Bottle-less water coolers plumbed with a water line: Occupants are advised to place a service call with the company supplying the machine. Have the service technician properly flush the machine’s internal reservoir and change any filters, which may be in-line with the water supply.
- Bottle-type water coolers: Occupants are advised to flush out and discard all water in the current water bottle, install a new water bottle, and then draw several additional cups of water to fully flush the inside of the machine with new water. If water bottles were stored for a prolonged period near a window, the ultraviolet light could impact the water quality