What is a potential consequence of allowing water to stagnate in pipes?

Allowing water to stagnate in pipes can lead to various consumer health risks. Stagnation creates an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria, including potentially harmful pathogens. When water is not in active circulation, the levels of disinfectants, such as chlorine, may drop, allowing microorganisms to thrive and possibly resulting in waterborne illnesses. Furthermore, stagnant water can leach contaminants from the pipes themselves, which may also pose health threats to consumers. Overall, the health risks associated with stagnant water highlight the importance of maintaining proper water flow and regular system flushing to ensure safe drinking water quality.