Health experts advise against using hot tap water for cooking and drinking

Health institutions recommend using only cold tap water for drinking, cooking, and preparing food, rather than using hot water directly from the tap. While the water from the main supply may be safe, hot water can dissolve metals from household pipes, joints, and faucets as it passes through them. This risk is particularly high in older buildings where plumbing may contain materials like lead.

Hot water also spends more time in contact with various materials within heating systems and boilers. To ensure safety, it is advised to draw cold water and heat it manually on a stove or in a kettle. Boiling water can eliminate certain microorganisms, but it does not remove heavy metals like lead.

For water that has sat stagnant in pipes, experts suggest flushing the system. After overnight standing, running the cold water for at least 10 seconds is recommended. If the water has not been used for more than 48 hours, it should be allowed to run for at least two minutes before use.