Source: Consumer Affairs – New Zealand Government
Serene S2068 heaters manufactured in March 2021 have a manufacturing defect. There have been at least 15 fires and overheating events associated with these heaters.
There is a significant risk of people being seriously harmed and property being damaged from the use of these heaters.
The prohibited S2068 heater is described as:
- Wall mounted fan heater with step-down thermostat with pull-cord on-off switch, for fixed-wired installation in bathrooms and similar locations
- Mirror polished stainless steel metal shell with die cast grille
- Dimensions: 300 mm wide, 210 mm high and 110 mm deep.
The prohibited S2068 heaters have a serial number in the following ranges:
- VH145173 – VH147003
- VK154294 – VK160567
- WF167045 – WF168874
The serial numbers can be visible without dismounting the product.
The Consumer Guarantees Act (CGA) guarantees that products must be of acceptable quality, including safe to use. Where a product is unsafe — or doesn’t meet mandatory product safety requirements — you have the right to a refund, repair, or replacement.
What should you do if you have these products?
Check to see if you have an affected heater with the serial number as above, If you do, Stop using it immediately and remove it from the home.
Consumers can reject the goods under the Consumer Guarantees Act and ask the supplier they purchased it from for a replacement (if available) or a refund.
If the heater has been installed by fixed wiring, consumers can also require the supplier to arrange for its removal by an electrician. If consumers can’t identify the supplier, they will have to arrange an electrician to remove this heater at their own cost.
If the heater is plugged into the wall, consumers can switch off the electricity, unplug, and remove the heater.
