The stylish, small, and unassuming Serene S2068 wall-mounted bathroom heater appears to be innocuous at first glance. However, underneath its shiny metal exterior is a problem that resembles a ticking time bomb. After numerous fire incidents connected to its defective design, this once-reliable appliance has gone from being a bathroom staple to a prohibited hazard in New Zealand in the last year.
The sale, use, and installation of the Serene S2068 were prohibited by a prohibition notice issued by WorkSafe in February 2024. Growing evidence of overheating, especially when the heater was left running for long periods of time, led to the decision. Despite being subtle at first, these problems became frighteningly apparent as the number of incidents increased. 19 fires had been directly linked to the device by January 2025, and that figure might just be the start.
Serene S2068 Bathroom Heater Ban
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Model | Serene Classic S2068 |
| Manufacture Date | March 2021 |
| Ban Announced | February 2024 by WorkSafe |
| Fire Incidents | 19 confirmed (as of Jan 2025) |
| Units Still Installed | Approx. 28,000 |
| Units Decommissioned | Approx. 16,000 |
| Key Risk | Overheating leading to fire |
| Action Required | Immediately turn off and contact supplier |
| At-Risk Serial Ranges | VH145173–VH147003, VK154294–VK160567, WF167045–WF168874 |
| Official Source | Consumer Protection NZ |
An Expanding Danger—and a Constricting Time for Reaction
These heaters caused two more homes to catch fire over the holiday season, serving as painful reminders that these incidents are not unique. “The longer these heaters remain in homes, the higher the chances we’ll see more fires,” Ian Caplin, a spokesman for MBIE, cautioned. Avoid waiting until your bathroom catches fire.
The sheer number of units still in operation is what significantly complicates the situation. Nearly 28,000 of these heaters are still in use nationwide in residences, rental homes, and even motels in spite of public warnings. Tens of thousands of Kiwi homes are unwittingly posing a significant fire risk.
When Your Insurance Doesn’t Support You
The position adopted by the Insurance Council of New Zealand is arguably one of the most concerning disclosures. Recent conversations with MBIE indicate that if a user disregarded recall instructions, any fire brought on by a Serene S2068 heater might not be covered by home insurance. This implies that one mistake could leave you without assistance during one of the most emotionally and financially taxing times in your life.
Acting on the recall becomes not only a moral decision but also a crucial financial one as a result of this development.
Consumer Rights: You Must Take Action Even Though You Have Choices
The Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) of New Zealand mandates that goods be both safe and of a respectable standard. You are entitled to a remedy, such as a refund, repair, or replacement, if a product does not live up to these fundamental standards. Customers are being advised by MBIE to seek redress by getting in touch with the retailer or supplier where the heater was bought.
To make sure there is no additional risk, a qualified electrician must disconnect the heater if it is already installed in your house. There is heightened pressure on landlords in particular to inspect rental properties and promptly remove prohibited models.
Beyond S2068: An Unsafe Product Trend?
Even though the S2068 has been the center of attention, MBIE has raised issues with the Serene S2069 and S207T, two other models. Despite not yet being prohibited, recent testing revealed that these models did not meet basic safety requirements. At this time, MBIE is also considering possible action against these products.
This new trend calls into question consumer protection procedures and product vetting, especially for bathroom appliances that combine electricity, water, and high humidity. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly innocuous products need to be carefully examined.
A Call to Action: Safeguard Your Peace of Mind, Property, and Family
For families who might be dealing with a hidden threat, the Serene S2068 recall is more than just a formal notice buried on a government website. Although the heater’s design flaw is minor, the consequences are disastrous. Fires start out quietly, and it’s frequently too late by the time the threat is apparent.
It takes less than five minutes to check your bathroom heater. On a sticker at the top of the device are the model and serial number. Turn it off right away and get in touch with your supplier or a qualified electrician if the number falls within one of the prohibited ranges.
Why This Is More Important Than Ever
The need for bathroom heating is increasing as New Zealand prepares for another winter. But so does the danger for those who continue to use models that are prohibited. Taking action now can significantly reduce the likelihood of a catastrophe tomorrow. Kiwis can restore peace of mind, protect their homes, and protect their families with the correct information and prompt action.
An example of how a single, disregarded defect can escalate into a national security issue is the Serene S2068. However, it also serves as evidence of the effectiveness of proactive measures, consumer protection, and information. This warning will have been effective if even one reader disconnects their heater after reading it.
📢 Need More Guidance?
For official updates, recall procedures, or consumer rights information, visit:
🔗 Consumer Protection NZ
