SINGAPORE: Residents at 6 Jalan Bukit Ho Swee are grappling with an unusual yet alarming issue: the tap water is so heated, particularly during the sun-soaked afternoons, that many must cool it before using it for their daily hygiene routines.

According to a report by Shin Min Daily News, Mr. Jeng, a sixth-floor resident, described the tap water as being so hot that it feels as if it’s springing directly from a water heater, especially between noon and 6 PM on sunny days. He expressed his discomfort, recalling a moment when he nearly scalded himself while washing his hands. “It only takes about 15 seconds for the water to heat up to an unbearable temperature,” he lamented.

Residents' Adaptations

Mr. Jeng has resorted to asking his mother to fill buckets with water during the day so that it cools off by the time he needs to shower in the evening. Images shared in the report highlight his efforts, revealing several buckets lined up in his bathroom.

Worryingly, this issue seems to have worsened this year, coinciding with a rise in overall temperatures. Many residents have noted that the water temperature drops when it rains continuously, indicating a fluctuating problem tied to weather changes. A thermometer used by a reporter captured the alarming temperature of the tap water at 37.6 degrees Celsius during a recent visit.

Longstanding Issue

Mrs. Tan, an 84-year-old resident of the same block, corroborated Mr. Jeng’s claims, saying that the rising water temperatures have been a longstanding issue. "It's something we’ve had to adapt to over the years," she stated, alongside comments from neighbors who share similar experiences.

Impact on Higher Floors

The situation appears especially dire for residents living on higher floors, as they report even hotter tap water compared to those lower down. A temperature test in one of the higher units revealed a staggering 38.2 degrees Celsius at its peak. Mr. Yang, who resides in that unit, confirmed that the water grows increasingly warm the longer it runs, beginning to cool only after 7:00 PM.

Concerns and Calls for Action

As the Singapore weather continues to heat up, residents are left questioning the effectiveness of their plumbing infrastructure and safety during these sweltering months. With this issue affecting their day-to-day living, it raises concerns about how widespread this problem may be across the country’s HDB estates.

Residents are calling for urgent action and investigations by relevant authorities to resolve this troubling situation and ensure better living conditions for all.