A heater-bimetal apparatus is disclosed. The heater-bimetal apparatus has a heating element having a first portion and a second portion, a bimetal element coupled to the heating element at a third portion between the first and second portions, and a support member coupled to the heating element at the third portion, the support member including registration surfaces adapted to be received in pockets formed in spaced portions of circuit breaker housing. Assemblies including the heater-bimetal apparatus and methods of assembly of heater-bimetal assemblies are provided, as are other aspects.