Montreal residents have reported that Hilo smart thermostats, sold by Hydro-Québec, caught fire on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, producing smoke and a burnt odor. Ten separate incidents were documented, and owners say the utility has not responded to their complaints.
Hydro-Québec markets the Hilo brand as a smart solution for home heating, promoting remote control and energy‑saving features. The recent malfunction reports involve the same model, with owners describing the devices emitting smoke before flames appeared. In each case, the smell of burning material was noted, and the units were rendered inoperable.
The owners, who chose the Hilo thermostat for its advertised convenience, contacted Hydro-Québec after the incidents but report receiving no acknowledgment or assistance. The lack of response has prompted concerns among users who rely on the thermostats for temperature regulation during the winter months.
The incidents occurred across various neighborhoods in Montreal, with each reported at the same time of day, 13:22 EDT. No injuries were reported, and fire services were called to extinguish the small fires. The utility company has not released an official statement regarding the cause of the malfunctions or the status of any investigation.
Hydro-Québec's Hilo line has been part of the utility's broader effort to modernize home heating through connected devices. The current reports contrast with the company's typical messaging about safety and reliability. Consumers are advised to monitor their devices for signs of overheating and to disconnect any unit that emits smoke or an unusual odor.
The situation adds to a growing list of consumer safety issues linked to smart home products, though no regulatory action has been announced. Hydro-Québec has not indicated whether it will issue a recall or provide replacements for the affected thermostats. The company’s response, or lack thereof, will likely influence future consumer confidence in its smart home offerings.