Pool owners need to be vigilant as criminals appear to be taking an increasing interest in their heat pumps.
In northeast Montreal, in Rivière-des-Prairies, several pool owners have had the module that heats the water in their pool stolen.
The SPVM launched an investigation to track down the thieves but declined to divulge further details so as not to jeopardize the investigation.
Nicolas Guillotte, CEO of Poseidon Swimming Pools and Spas
Why target this type of device? Are they for resale on classifieds sites? Do we use the metals they contain to resell them?
Poseidon Swimming Pools and Spas CEO Nicolas Guillotte said he was surprised to see this type of theft.
“I’ve been in business for 22 years and this is the first time I’ve heard of a problem like this! Heat pump theft!” he explains in an interview with 100% News.
He explains that this device is connected to both the pool water mains and the 220 volt electricity.
Nicolas Guillotte, CEO of Poseidon Swimming Pools and Spas | TVA Nouvelles
“To be able to pinch the lines, you have to know the area of the pool, turn off the pump, and so on. Even with electricity, you have to know what you’re doing, otherwise you risk a 220-volt discharge, which can be deadly,” adds the expert.
Citizens who have a heat pump are asked to protect their property and pay particular attention to the weak points in their home. To protect themselves from theft, citizens can provide good lighting for their courtyard exits, install a timer or even a surveillance camera.
The SPVM invites any concerned citizen or citizen with information to get in touch in order to take the matter forward.