For an entire year, elderly residents of a seniors' residence in Deux-Montagnes, Quebec, have been living in a building without a functional central heating system. The failure of the building's geothermal heating system has forced approximately 62 apartment units to depend on space heaters to get through the cold Canadian winters.
A Year-Long Struggle for Warmth
The situation began nearly a full year ago when the geothermal heating system, designed as an efficient and modern solution, broke down. Since that failure, the building's management has not been able to restore permanent heat. This has left vulnerable seniors, some with significant health concerns, to fend for themselves against the cold. Residents report that their only source of warmth has been portable electric space heaters, which are often insufficient for Quebec's harsh winter climate and can pose significant safety and fire risks.
Safety Concerns and Resident Anxiety
Relying on space heaters for primary heat is not only uncomfortable but also raises serious safety issues. These devices can be a fire hazard, especially if used continuously or near flammable materials. For an aging population, the added risk is a constant source of anxiety. Furthermore, the electrical cost of running multiple heaters is substantial, potentially creating a financial burden for residents on fixed incomes. The prolonged nature of this crisis—lasting a full year as of December 2025—has compounded stress and frustration among those living in the building.
Seeking a Permanent Solution
While temporary measures are in place, the core problem remains unresolved. A geothermal system is a complex piece of infrastructure, and repairs or replacements can be costly and time-consuming. The ongoing delay suggests significant logistical or financial hurdles. This case highlights a broader concern about the maintenance and oversight of private seniors' residences and the adequacy of emergency protocols when essential services fail. Residents and their families are now calling for urgent action from the building's owners and local authorities to implement a permanent, safe heating solution before another winter passes.
The plight of these seniors in Deux-Montagnes serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of elderly populations when basic infrastructure fails. It underscores the need for robust regulations and swift intervention to protect the health and safety of residents in care homes across Canada.
