Bathroom Electrical Code Requirements

Home electrical wiring for bathrooms lighting must be either.

Bathroom electrical code requirements. On dimmer switches provide a manual on occupancy sensor or be all fluorescent lighting. The national electrical code defines a wet location as an area that is subject to saturation with water or other liquids and unprotected locations exposed to the weather. These general guidelines will give you the basics of what electrical inspectors are looking for when they review both remodeling projects and new installations.

Bathroom electrical code requirements. Most bathroom electrical code requirements have been in place for some time now and aren t particularly surprising but if the bathroom hasn t been updated for 20 or 30 years it will require some new circuit wiring on your part and you may need an electrician. The nec offers general guidelines for safe wiring in a bathroom but remember that local codes always supersede the national code.

Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. Over the years these requirements have become more exacting as the code strives to keep pace in increasing electrical demands in bathrooms. While many communities base their local codes precisely on the nec it is also possible for local requirements to be either more lenient or more stringent depending on the community.

Bathroom receptacles are to be supplied by at least one 20 amp branch circuit. Like the wiring in other parts of the home the electrical service in bathrooms must follow the code requirements set forth by your local building inspections office. Electrical codes for bathrooms are different than every other part of the house and for good reason.

The national electric code has another definition for damp locations that is more subjective but if you think the receptacle is going to get wet use an in use. This circuit shall have no other outlets except bathroom receptacles. Most local codes are based on the national electrical code nec a document that lays out required practices for all aspects of residential and commercial electrical.

Electrical codes are in place to protect you the homeowner. Besides potential shock hazards fire safety is an issue that is addressed in bathroom electrical code a well as other important factors. Among other wiring installation details the electrical code specifies how electrical outlets should be spaced and which types of outlets to use in general living areas in bathrooms in kitchens and in other locations.