Read the instructions

Tony Bingham's article "Never trust a copper" (21 March, page 59) raises the issue of low water draw-off, which we feel deserves comment.

Many thousands of copper pipework installations are made each year, including those in properties that will use water sporadically (show homes, for instance), and there are very few problems associated with low water draw-off.

The British Standard BS 6700 provides guidance and recommendations on the installation and commissioning of domestic water services. If these practices are followed, problems associated with stagnant water can be avoided.