Beginning May 15, Moscow will implement planned hot water reductions as part of preparations for the upcoming heating season. This measure was announced by Petr Biryukov, who serves as Moscow’s deputy mayor responsible for housing and communal services and improvement. The aim is to ensure the city’s heat network is ready to deliver reliable service when the cold of autumn and winter returns.
Officials outlined that hydraulic tests will be conducted across a vast network spanning 17,000 kilometers. The work will involve more than 74,000 buildings, including over 34,000 residential properties, all of which will undergo preparation for the heating period. This extensive testing is designed to verify the integrity of the infrastructure and minimize interruptions once the heating season resumes. The effort reflects a broader, systematic approach to maintaining heat supply reliability for residents and social facilities alike.
The deputy mayor stressed that, at present, it is not feasible to maintain hot water without some temporary shutdowns. He noted that the maximum downtime for hot water in Moscow can reach up to ten days, with legal guidelines permitting a period of up to fourteen days under specific circumstances. Biryukov added that all preventive activities related to the hot water supply system are scheduled to conclude by September 1, aligning with the transition from summer to autumn operations and the anticipated start of the heating season.
Earlier remarks from Deputy Mayor Biryukov indicated a decision to conclude the heating season in Moscow at an appropriate pace. He explained that, given prevailing weather patterns, authorities opted to initiate the summer operation of the capital’s heat supply system on April 24, ensuring a smooth handover between seasons and preserving the integrity of critical infrastructure during warmer months. This phased approach is part of a broader strategy to optimize energy delivery, safeguard residents, and maintain readiness for the colder months ahead.
In summary, the city’s hot water shutdowns are a planned and controlled component of the annual preparation for the heating season. The process involves large-scale hydraulic testing, extensive building readiness work, and a carefully timed schedule that balances service continuity with necessary maintenance. City officials emphasize that these measures are designed to protect the reliability of Moscow’s heat network while minimizing disruption to residents and essential institutions. The overall plan reflects ongoing efforts to modernize infrastructure and improve resilience in the face of changing weather and demand patterns. [Source: City of Moscow press office attribution]