Thousands of Bucharest residents will lack hot water and heat for the coming days, Termoenergetica said after a breakdown at the CET Sud plant triggered ongoing problems since the start of the year. The company said new technical work will finish by January 31 and urged citizens to use the TermoAlert app for live updates. About 250 blocks have no hot water at all, and around 530 receive water below normal temperature, with sectors 2, 3 and 4 most affected. Residents have lodged complaints and one has filed a criminal complaint accusing the company of false statements and abuse of office. He claims he must leave the tap open for 20‑30 minutes to get any hot water and has been billed for water that was not at the required temperature. A petition with thousands of signatures calls on citizens not to pay bills in January. Termoenergetica replied that customers only pay for the service they receive, while energy experts say those who feel wronged can seek recalculation, compensation or penalties if contract terms are breached. The company’s contract requires hot water at about 50‑60 °C with constant pressure and flow.

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