Domestic hot water tanks and other equipment - A consumer perspective

Author

Ceara Allen; Michael Lio;

Organization

Homeowner Protection Centre

Published

2013

Summary

Most Canadian homeowners own their water heaters, except in Ontario where water heaters are predominantly rented. While the largest rental market is found in Ontario, there are also smaller markets in the Maritimes, Manitoba, and Quebec. Utility providers in these provinces, including Hydro Quebec, Manitoba Hydro, and NB Power, have offered water heater rentals, but seem to have had less take up than in Ontario. Rental companies have also recently targeted Alberta to expand their rental business.

While the water heater markets across Canada have traditionally been stable and relatively free of consumer complaints, new concerns have recently been reported, particularly in the Ontario market. Recent media coverage reflecting an increase in consumer complaints has led the Homeowner Protection Centre to examine homeowner discontent with the rental water heater market. This study is timely given that rental companies are now pursuing other parts of Canada, most notably Alberta. Much of the report draws from and focuses on Ontario, where the rental market is most established. The hope is that lessons can be learned to prevent similar problems elsewhere.

The objective of this report is to review water heater products available across the country, review the history of the rental market, especially in Ontario, identify homeowner water heater issues, and conduct an analysis and provide recommendations to improve the marketplace for consumers.

This document is available in the following language(s):

Third-Party Information Liability Disclaimer

Some of the information on this Web page has been provided by external sources. The Government of Canada is not responsible for the accuracy, reliability or currency of the information supplied by external sources. Users wishing to rely upon this information should consult directly with the source of the information. Content provided by external sources is not subject to official languages, privacy and accessibility requirements.

English and French

OCA Funded Research
This research received funding support through the Office of Consumer Affairs' Contributions Program.

Contact information

Source: Consumer Policy Research Database