There are safety regulations for installing electric light fittings near sources of water, but as long as you follow some simple guidelines it's perfectly fine to use ordinary light fittings in a bathroom.
Not Zoned - refers to the area beyond Zone 2 and was previously known as Zone 3. There is no longer a specific IP number for this area, and any light fitting can be used unless it is specifically marked as not for use in bathrooms.
Light Functionality In The Bathroom
Whilst light switches are strictly not allowed in bathrooms, a pull cord can be used in any location in the bathroom. Most favour in placing this by the door for ease. Whilst this is highly functional, many fear it will affect the aesthetic of their bathroom.
The below chart summarises the IP ratings; anything in blue would be useful in bathroom zones 1, 2 and 3 in a bathroom. Therefore, bathroom lights should be a minimum of IP44 rated to be used safely in bathrooms, en-suites and cloakrooms.
Any fixture installed in a bathroom should at least be rated for damp areas, because the humidity of the room can build up even if the light is not exposed directly to water. Any lighting above shower or bath areas, or near the sinks, should be rated for wet conditions.
While you can mix and match downlights in different zones and even use non IP rated downlights in areas outside of the bathroom zones, its better to just go with IP65 rated throughout; then they will all match and provide adequate protection for the more delicate LED light source against moisture caused by steam.
All bathrooms will need vanity lighting of some sort. The other lights you choose depend a little bit on your preference and a little bit on your space.
A 20-amp circuit is the necessary amount of energy that is required to fully utilize the lighting and electrical components of a bathroom. Even though you are able to have more power, this is the minimum required by electrical code. This will allow you to safely run an overhead light and an exhaust fan.
Make sure the LED lights are rated for use in damp or wet environments, as bathrooms are prone to moisture and humidity. Choose the appropriate output type, brightness, and control method for your LED lighting strips.
LEDs are ideal for bathrooms because they provide bright, even light while reducing energy consumption. Halogen Bulbs: Offer bright, white light and excellent color rendering but generate more heat and consume more energy than LEDs.
Bathroom wall lights can be placed wherever you want in your bathroom – but, one pointer to note is to ensure that they are not too close to direct water contact. A general rule of thumb is to have the top of the bathroom wall light at eye level.
It's all about safety. Water increases the risk of electric shock, so traditional switches aren't allowed inside bathrooms. That's why you'll see pull cords or switches outside the door – it keeps everything safe and compliant with UK regulations.
1. One 20-ampere-rated circuit may serve the required receptacle(s) in all the bathrooms in the house. In this case, no other outlets may be served by this circuit. The bathroom lighting and any fan or heat lamps would be served by a distinct general purpose branch circuit.
The shower and tub areas are other locations where it makes sense to use can lights. Housings used must be “wet” or “shower-location” rated. “Damp-location” rated lights in these locations are unsafe and will not meet safety code requirements.
The Benefits of Natural Light in a Bathroom
Natural light helps reduce the need for artificial lighting, thus leading to a more energy-efficient and cost-effective bathroom. The appearance of natural light in a bathroom creates a sense of calm and tranquillity, promoting a relaxing and soothing environment.
Integrated LED (Light-Emitting Diode) lighting has emerged as one of the most prominent trends in bathroom design. LED technology offers numerous advantages, including energy efficiency, longevity, and versatility.
Any lighting within this area must be low voltage, to a maximum of 12v and any transformer or LED driver must be located outside of the bathroom. Lights must be a minimum of IP67 which means they are protected against the effects of immersion.
An LED bulb will not work in an enclosed or airtight space because, in these fixtures, there is not enough room for the LED bulb to dissipate heat.
Basically, if you situate lights inside designated 'zones' in a bathroom, the fittings need to have an IP rating (explained below). But outside those zones then any standard lights are fine to use.
Bathroom Light Bulb Types
Bathroom lighting bulbs include incandescent, fluorescent, halogen and LED. The choice of bulb can depend on the type of lighting and the desired wattage, or brightness, that creates even lighting.
Bathrooms must have at least one 120-volt receptacle within 3 feet of the outside edge of each bathroom sink basin. Double bowl sinks can be served by a single receptacle between them. All receptacles must have GFCI protection and be served by a 20-amp circuit.
Other than the functionality, these lights will improve the overall look of the bathroom and make it a well-lit, inviting environment. Regardless of whether wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted, vanity lights are important lighting fixtures that will keep not only the bathroom functional but also create an ambiance in it.
Bathroom Lighting Zone Specifications:
Any bathroom lighting fixture used in this zone must be low voltage (max 12v) and rated at least IP67 (immersion-rated).
Sconces are often recommended because they increase the amount of usable light in the room, making it even easier to see yourself in the mirror! They can also add even more style to any bathroom. Another option still is to hang matching pendant lights instead of the sconces flanking a mirror.
For precision tasks such as applying makeup or shaving, the quality of light is crucial. If your LED mirror provides sufficient brightness and color accuracy, additional vanity lights might not be necessary.