Serene bathroom heater recall
30 April 2024
Serene Classic S2068
The Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs has now sent a compulsory recall notice to Serene Industries, requiring it to recall Serene S2068 Bathroom Heaters imported, sold or installed since 16 June 2018. This follows on from the voluntary recalls issued by suppliers of these heaters after a WorkSafe investigation that resulted in a prohibition of sale and use due to safety concerns, which include the potential of fire and overheating events.
If householders have a Serene S2068 heater, they should stop using it, unplug it from the wall if possible – or arrange for an electrician to remove it – and contact the company they got it from.
If plumbers have sold these units to any customers as part of a bathroom package, Master Plumbers advise they get in touch with those customers. If they see a heater of this kind in a bathroom, we advise they let the householder know and point them to information on the WorkSafe website.
These heaters can no longer be legally imported, sold, or installed in New Zealand.
Serene S207T
WorkSafe have also prohibited the sale, installation, and importation of Serene S207T wall mounted bathroom heaters, as they are non-compliant with New Zealand safety standards. This prohibition applies to all units imported, sold, or installed since January 2018.
There is a low risk these heaters may be unsafe, although WorkSafe are not aware of any fires or overheating events. However, if a householder observes an unusual smell or noise from the heater, they should stop using it and contact an electrical worker to check it over.
Consumers who have the S207T and are concerned may also wish to contact the supplier to seek a remedy under the Consumer Goods Act.
Serene S2069
Serene S2069 wall mounted bathroom heaters imported, purchased, or installed after June 2018 have had their approval withdrawn, as they are non-compliant with New Zealand safety standards. This confirms they cannot be legally sold in New Zealand.
WorkSafe are currently investigating a reported fire associated with one of these units. If a householder observes an unusual smell or noise from the heater, they should stop using it and contact an electrical worker to check it over.
Consumers who have the S2069 and are concerned may also wish to contact the supplier to seek a remedy under the Consumer Goods Act.
