Electrical Fire Safety In Your NZ Home: Stay Safe This Winter
Electrical Fire Safety In Your Home: Stay Safe This Winter
Winter in New Zealand means more heaters and heated appliances in use—unfortunately, it also means greater risk of electrical fires. In 2023 alone, over 400 house fires were linked to electrical faults. Ensuring your home's electrical system is safe and up-to-date is more critical than ever.
Important Recall: Serene Bathroom Heaters
A major recall affects the Serene S2068 wall-mounted bathroom heater, due to a manufacturing defect that causes a significant fire risk. This recall extends to all S2068 models sold, imported, or installed in New Zealand since June 2018. A number of fires have been directly linked to this heater, and a compulsory recall is in place. Two other models (S2069 and S207T) are also non-compliant with safety standards.
If you have a Serene bathroom heater (model S2068, S207T, or S2069):
- Stop using it immediately
- Unplug it from the wall if possible
- Contact the retailer or supplier you purchased it from to arrange a return, removal, and remedy
- If the heater is hardwired, consult a registered electrician for safe removal
Essential Safety Tips For Winter
Avoid Overloading Sockets:
Connect high-wattage appliances, like heaters and dryers, directly to wall sockets rather than multi-plugs or power strips. Distribute the load evenly across multiple outlets to prevent overheating.
Monitor Electrical Devices:
Turn off and unplug heaters, blankets, and towel rails when not in use. Use only certified smart plugs.
Be Battery-Smart: Charge lithium-ion batteries (e-bikes, scooters, power tools) with manufacturer chargers, during daytime, and on non-flammable surfaces.
Get Regular Inspections:
Look for frayed cords and signs of overheating. Check your switchboard for damage.
Fuse and RCD Checks:
Make sure your home is equipped with a Residual Current Device (RCD) to protect against electrical faults —required by law for new and renovated homes and rentals. Address frequently tripping fuses promptly.
Consider Wiring and Switchboard Upgrades:
Older homes might have outdated wiring that poses a fire risk. Regularly check the wiring condition. Find out if your house needs rewiring.
Buy Certified Devices:
Look for products with a tick and circle inside a triangle, this mark is used to indicate compliance for electrical products and installed prescribed electrical works. When used for electrical product, this mark is called the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM).
An outdated switchboard can be a major hazard. Upgrading it can improve safety and reliability. Learn more about why you should upgrade your switchboard.
For Landlords: Healthy Home Compliance
- All rental properties must have RCD protection and working smoke alarms; fixed heating is mandatory in main living rooms.
- Arrange property inspections to verify compliance and safety.
Insurance Implications
If a fire is caused by faulty wiring, unsafe or recalled appliances—such as Serene S2068 heaters—your insurance may be void. Regular safety checks protect your home and your insurance cover. Ensure your home’s electrical system is in good working order.
Christchurch Electrical: Your Local Electrical Safety Experts
- Fast, friendly, and highly rated service
- Up to date with all recalls and NZ safety standards
- Call us on 03 366 1718 or contact us online for a full electrical safety check this winter. We can provide a quotation and ensure your home meets safety standards
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