Retailers are voluntarily recalling Serene S2068 wall mounted bathroom heaters after a manufacturing defect caused "at least 15 fires and overheating events".
WorkSafe issued a prohibition of sale and use notice on the Serene S2068 heaters in February 2024.
Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment's (MBIE) Ian Caplin said heaters which were manufactured in March 2021 have a "manufacturing defect which can cause harm to people or damage to property".
"We are aware of at least 15 fires or overheating events associated with these heaters and want to encourage anyone who has these heaters to contact the retailer immediately," he said.
Two other models of Serene bathroom heaters, the S2069 and S207T, are also being investigated by WorkSafe after recent testing found these "did not comply with required safety standards".
Once these investigations are complete, MBIE will decide if further voluntary recalls should be asked for.
The manufacturer of the heater closed its business in New Zealand, which has changed the usual path of voluntary recalls.
"Instead of the actual manufacturer issuing a recall, retailers who sold the heaters have been encouraged to voluntarily recall them," Caplin said.
"Even if the retailer that sold the heater hasn't yet issued the voluntary recall, New Zealanders can reject the goods under the Consumer Guarantees Act and ask for a replacement or a refund.
"If the heater was wired directly into your house rather than plugged into a wall socket, you can also require the supplier to arrange for its removal by an electrician."
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