Bathroom Electrical Code
There are minimum clearances and spaces that are determined by local regulators.
Bathroom electrical code. The bathroom electrical code now stipulates that the bathroom must have dedicated circuits that aren t shared with outlets or lights in any other room. 2 separate sinks built next to each other also have to have a spacing of 4 inches or more. The way a bathroom is laid out is actually more like an intricate piece of art. This circuit shall have no other outlets except bathroom receptacles.
These general guidelines will give you the basics of what electrical inspectors are looking for when they review both remodeling projects and new installations. The nec is revised every three years 2017 2020 etc so it is important to use the most recent code when planning a new or remodeled bathroom. Bathroom receptacles are to be supplied by at least one 20 amp branch circuit. A 15 amp circuit is minimum but this is often a 20 amp circuit especially if there is a heat lamp integrated into this circuit.
An electrical code is an official set of guidelines that specifies how various aspects of an electrical system should be installed. Codes and regulations require all bathrooms to have certain elements such as vents waterproof lights and more to make your home smart and safe. Electrical codes are in place to protect you the homeowner. If the bathroom has a ventilation fan it can.
A basic wiring plan for a bathroom includes a 20 amp gfci protected circuit for the receptacles and a 15 amp general lighting circuit for the switches light fixtures and vent fan. Home electrical wiring for bathrooms lighting must be either. Electrical codes for bathrooms are different than every other part of the house and for good reason. A 20 amp receptacle circuit for plug in appliances.
Bathroom electrical code requirements. Most local residential electrical codes are based on the nec the national electrical code a model code that provides guidelines on which local communities can model their own residential codes. The 4 inch rule also applies to the spacing between the sink and the. Light fixtures and wall switches must be on a separate circuit.
Besides potential shock hazards fire safety is an issue that is addressed in bathroom electrical code a well as other important factors. One is a 20 amp circuit that powers the outlets and the other is a 15 amp circuit for the lights. No other area of a home has more potential for water and electricity to meet. All bathroom sinks should be 4 inches from the side walls at minimum and should also have at least 21 inches of front clearance.
You must provide at least two of these circuits. All receptacles must be afci and gfci protected either by circuit breakers or individual receptacles that offer afci and gfci protection. 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. On dimmer switches provide a manual on occupancy sensor or be all fluorescent lighting.