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The public is being urged to stop using certain Serene bathroom heaters in the wake of two recent house fires in Christchurch.

The house fires, which occurred in the past week, have both been linked to the Serene S2068 model, part of an ongoing trend according to Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Canterbury’s senior fire risk management officer Bruce Irvine said the problem has persisted for over two years, with multiple fires traced specifically to the Serene S2068 model.

Fire and Emergency have warned against leaving bathroom heaters running for prolonged time periods. Photo / Fire and Emergency New Zealand

“There’s an ongoing trend. Recently, we’ve had two additional fires related to this make and model.”

WorkSafe New Zealand has escalated its action against Serene wall-mounted bathroom heaters, banning the sale, use, installation, and importation of several models.

This includes the Serene Classic S2068, S207T, and S2069 heaters, all of which have been found non-compliant with New Zealand safety standards.

The Serene S2068 heater has been recalled due to safety concerns, including overheating and a design flaw that makes it dangerous when left on for extended periods.

The models have been linked to two fires in Christchurch last week. Photo / Fire and Emergency New Zealand

“These heaters are not designed for prolonged use. They’re meant to be used briefly, only while the bathroom is occupied,” said Irvine.

The heaters have been widely installed in hotels, motels, retirement villages, and other accommodation, Irvine said.

“Occupants, especially in transient accommodations like Airbnbs, may not be aware of the risks... Building owners have a responsibility to disconnect these heaters or provide clear signage.”

Serene bathroom heater models S2068 have been banned due to the potential risk of fire. Photo / Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand recommends the following steps for homeowners and property managers:

• Identify if your bathroom heater is a Serene S2068. The model number is on a sticker on the top of the unit.
• If you own this model, stop using it immediately. Arrange for an electrical worker to disconnect it or contact the supplier for a replacement under the Consumer Guarantees Act.
• While other Serene models, such as the S207T and S2069, are considered low-risk, any unusual smells or noises should prompt an inspection.

While the company that originally manufactured these heaters is no longer in business, Irvine said that consumers are still protected.

“Under the Consumer Guarantees Act, you can return the heater to the supplier for a replacement,” he said.

Irvine also warned about similar heaters on the market with comparable design flaws, though he was unable to name brands,

“Bathroom heaters are not designed to act as room heaters. They should only be used for short periods while the bathroom is in use.”

WorkSafe has also prohibited the sale, installation, and importation of Serene models S207T and S2069.

Suppliers are prohibited from selling or installing these models and are encouraged to conduct voluntary recalls.

- NZ Herald