Water Heater Rental Saga

03.16.12: Case closed ... for now. Revised agreement withdrawn.


03.15.12: Can't get to the Direct Energy website!


There is very little detail on this growing potential problem from Direct Energy.


Here is my interpretation of the current situation.


If you are aware of additional details, pls advise asap!


Hugh Adami (in the Ottawa Citizen) and Ellen Roseman are doing the communication on this topic and Ellen's current article dated March 14th indicates a May 1st deadline.
CTV also has a updated video clearly outlining the problem and actions required. Go to this CTV link and click on "Direct Energy Update". 


The understanding is Direct Energy has sent a letter to all renters (whose contract started before Sept 2010) outlining the revised terms. The letter affects those with rental agreements more than 7-8 years old.


We, and many others, have not received the letter.


For those Ontario folks who plan to continue to rent a hot water tank from Direct Energy, action is required before May 1st (deadline extended), as indicated by Hugh:


"So here’s the company’s catch: It’s up to customers to let Direct Energy know if they want to remain under the old agreement. If customers fail to let Direct Energy know that they want to stay with the old plan, they’ll automatically be switched over to the new agreement on April 2, the day after April Fool’s Day."


I cannot connect to their website but understand the number to call is 1-866-202-1120. However, we have tried calling for the last 2 days and always get a busy signal.
Apparently, you can send an email to rentalterms@directenergy.com indicating you want to stay on the old agreement ... allowing you to cancel a rental agreement at no cost.


We are doing the email right now!


You can also buy out your existing contract (if started before Sept 2010) and continue to use the tank. 
There is a fee for this but it is quite small (Ellen paid $131), compared to the revised agreement coming into effect May 1st for existing renters.
If you fail to arrange for removal before the deadline, it could cost up to $3,000 to have it removed.