Originally Posted By: jgallant This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I’m reviewing my copy of the “1 & 2 Family Dwelling Electrical Systems” now, but can anyone tell me what the rules are concerning the proximity of wall mounted light switches to showers and tubs. I thought a rule (NEC?) existed prohibiting wall mounted (fan, heater or light) switches from existing within 3 feet of a tub or shower enclosure. This to discourage wet people from operating 110v switches.
Originally Posted By: gbeaumont This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Hi Jim,
I know you are basically correct, I am not near my NEC tonight but If I remember correctly the distance from tub or shower to switch is actually 5 feet.
Originally Posted By: dvalley This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
The NEC doesn?t specify a distance, but all switches that control bathroom lighting should be installed at the entrance to the bathroom. Why would someone need a switch near the shower anyways? DUH
There's only one switch that can be near water and that is the jacuzzi on-off switch. That particular switch is protected against water hazards.
Originally Posted By: roconnor This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
It is still considered better practice to place all switches and receptacles at least 3’ away from a tub or shower, and thats probably what you are thinking about …
Gerry ... I believe you are thinking about the 5' clearance rule for switches and outlets related to outdoor pools and spas (IRC E4103.2) ...
-- Robert O'Connor, PE
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I am absolutely amazed sometimes by how much thought goes into doing things wrong
Originally Posted By: jpeck This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
dvalley wrote:
The NEC doesn?t specify a distance, but all switches that control bathroom lighting should be installed at the entrance to the bathroom. Why would someone need a switch near the shower anyways? DUH
Because, DUH, you may have a tub on the left of the door, the lavatory straight ahead, and the water closet to the right. You walk in, the switch is near the shower - but not IN the shower or tub area. All depends on which way the door opens. The switch COULD have been on the right if the door opened the other way.
Originally Posted By: jgallant This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
The bathroom in question for me had two sinks with the shower adjacent to one of the sinks. A switch was installed for each of two light fixtures over the sinks (his n’ hers). One of the switches was right next to the edge of the shower enclosure. It wasn’t IN the shower enclosure, but inches from the edge. New construction too.
