Can you put a light switch near a shower?

Can you put a light switch near a shower?

The NEC requires that switches not be installed within the confines of shower and tub areas, unless as part of a shower assembly. In other words, unless the switch is already built in to your shower assembly from the manufacturer, adding a switch inside a shower is a code violation.

How close can a light fixture be to a shower?

The 2011 National Electric Code requires at least eight feet of space between the top of the tub or shower base and the bottom of the chandelier. This “no chandelier zone” also extends three feet outside of the tub or shower stall area.

Where should a light switch be placed in a bathroom?

For light switches, plate switches can be used on the inside of the bathroom, but these must be suitable for use in the bathroom, given the high levels of humidity and condensation. And they also must be at least 0.6m away from the bath or shower. A pull cord can be used instead, in any location in the bathroom.

Where should light be placed in shower?

It should be placed 75 to 80 inches above the floor and, like all vanity lighting, contain at least 150 watts — ideally spread over a fixture that’s at least 24 inches long so that the light will wash evenly over the hair and face.

Is a shower considered a wet location?

Wet locations include shower and bathtub enclosures, saunas, steam rooms, exterior walls, uncovered porches, outdoor walkways, and similar locations.

Why are bathroom light switches outside?

There’s a good answer: It’s to protect you. Electricity and water don’t mix. If a light switch is functional, it’s connected to a live wire. In new buildings with professional electrical installation, there’s a pretty low chance a light switch would shock you.

Why switches are not allowed to install in bathroom?

Bathrooms are considered to be a special location for electrical installations because they have an increased risk of electric shock for the users, due to being so close to water.

Can light placement in small bathroom?

For small bathrooms, one sizable recessed light fixture may be enough to distribute abundant light throughout the space. In large bathrooms, consider a line of lights down the middle of the ceiling, or small recessed lighting fixtures around the perimeter.

Do you need a light above shower?

Every shower (whether it is a shower cabin or a large walk-in shower) needs light. Light which differs in some areas from traditional living room or kitchen lighting.

What is considered a damp location for lighting?

A damp location includes mostly outdoor areas that are covered. Damp locations are not directly exposed to water and are shielded from precipitation and storms. However, the semi-outdoor nature of the space means it is exposed to condensation and humidity. Porches are the most common areas considered damp.

How do you know if a light is wet rated?

In these situations, look for fixtures with the label, “Suitable for Wet Locations” or “Suitable for Damp Locations.” For example, many homes have recessed lighting fixtures above or in the shower — it doesn’t get much wetter than the inside of a shower, so these should be wet-rated lighting.

Is it safe to use a light switch while standing in water?

Using the switch with wet hands, or while standing in water, can be quite dangerous. While you may remember not to operate the switch while you are wet, houseguests or small children may not.

Can a light switch be installed in a wet tub?

A flush mounted switch or circuit breaker in a *damp *or wet location shall be equipped with a weatherproof cover. Switches shall not be installed within wet locations in tub or shower spaces unless installed as part of a listed tub or shower assembly.

How tall should the bottom of a light switch be?

For a majority of rooms, builders tend to place the bottoms of light switches 48 inches above the floor. This is a comfortable height for most home dwellers when sitting or standing, plus it makes it easier to install switches during construction.

How tall should the light switch be on a hot tub?

For hot tubs, the NEC dictates that switches be at least 5 feet away, so that it’s impossible to touch a switch while in water. Also, if you have small children in your home, you might want to install your hot tub switch higher so they can’t turn the tub on and off.