Spotlights in the bathroom

[Hawkwind]

Hello All,

We are thinking of replacing the current bathroom light (single batten lampholder on the ceiling) with a metal chrome plated 3-spot unit. The current lampholder appears to be positioned in either zone 3 or in an area
spanning zone 3 and zone 2.

What should we be looking for in order to purchase a unit that complies with current regs.

Hawk

 

[baxpoti]

Minimum degree of protection IPX4 or IPX5 if water jets

 

[philrosenberg]

From looking for a replacement for our bathroom pendant light (which was dangling away unprotected in zone 3 when we bought the place) most lights suitable for use in zones actively advertise the fact on the box and specifically state which zones they can be used in.

 

[bernardgreen]

Minimum degree of protection IPX4 or IPX5 if water jets

Hot bulbs may shatter if a single splash of cold water hits them let alone a jet directed at them.

 

[baxpoti]

Extract from IEE Electricians guide to the building regs including approved document P Electrical safety in dwellings.

Luminaires (light fittings)
230v fittings can be installed above a shower or bath but they must be IPX4. i.e. enclosed and water protected unless mounted at a height of more than 3m

 

[Hawkwind]

Thanks everybody for your input.

I think we will vere on the safe side and go for an IPX5 unit.

Cheers.



Hawk.

 

[Hawkwind]

Hello All again,

Found lots of IP44 lights suitable for zones 1,2 and 3 but stating " not suitable if there is a liklihood of water jets being used for cleaning purposes".

Could someone clarify what they actually mean here. Fixed/hand held showers for personal cleaning or industrial power hoses?????

Thanks.


Hawk

 

[philrosenberg]

There is a note in the regs about communal showers cleaned by water jets, I presume you don't clean your bathroom in this was so don't worry. I guess it may be more applicable say in your local leisure centre