Zagreb residents find ways to cope with prolonged hot water outage

Residents in several western Zagreb neighborhoods are facing prolonged disruptions to their daily lives as essential repairs to the city's heating network leave them without hot water for over 20 days. The ongoing work, which began after the heating season concluded, has particularly affected areas like Špansko, Gajnice, and Malešnica, with the suspension of hot water expected to last until June 10.

Faced with this inconvenience, inhabitants have been sharing creative and practical solutions for maintaining personal hygiene. One resident from Špansko proposed a novel approach: a monthly membership at a 24-hour gym. "I use it every day, but not for exercise. I shower, shave, do everything I need, and move on," the resident explained, highlighting a workaround that prioritizes access to hot water facilities.

Other suggestions circulating among neighbors range from the practical to the more resourceful. Many are resorting to heating water on their stovetops or in electric kettles to mix with cold water for showers. The idea of purchasing an electric instant water heater has also gained traction. Some have suggested using camping showers or visiting friends and family who still have access to hot water. A few have even opted to install small electric boilers for temporary use.

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I use it every day, but not for exercise. I shower, shave, do everything I need, and move on.

These disruptions are part of a significant project by HEP Toplinarstvo to revitalize the city's heating network. The second phase of this project involves replacing 23.7 kilometers of the heating network. While the majority of the work is nearing completion, with only 0.6 kilometers remaining, further temporary suspensions of hot water are scheduled for other areas, including parts of Savica from June 1 to June 7.

The situation has prompted a mix of frustration and community solidarity, with residents actively exchanging tips and advice. While the repairs are necessary for the long-term improvement of the city's infrastructure, the immediate impact on daily routines underscores the challenges faced by residents during such extensive utility work.

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My family heats water in the kettle and mixes it with cold. And now we're planning to buy an electric water heater.