GFCI requirements, exhaust fan sizing, lighting placement, and safety zones for bathroom electrical work. Essential reference for bathroom renovations and upgrades.
⚠️ Code Requirement
All bathroom outlets must have GFCI protection. This is a non-negotiable NEC requirement to prevent electrocution in wet environments.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Circuit Rating | 20A dedicated circuit required |
| Wire Gauge | 12 AWG minimum |
| Outlet Location | Within 36" of each sink basin |
| GFCI Protection | Required for all outlets within 6 ft of water |
| Protection Options | GFCI outlet OR GFCI breaker at panel |
Bathroom electrical work is divided into zones based on proximity to water sources. Each zone has specific requirements for fixture ratings and installation.
| Zone | Location | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 0 | Inside tub/shower basin | Only SELV (12V max) fixtures allowed |
| Zone 1 | Above tub/shower to 8 ft height | IPX4 rated (splash-proof) fixtures only |
| Zone 2 | 2 ft horizontal from Zone 1 | IPX4 rated fixtures recommended |
| Outside Zones | Rest of bathroom | Standard damp-rated fixtures acceptable |
Key Rules:
| Bathroom Size | CFM Required | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small (<50 sq ft) | 50 CFM minimum | Standard half-bath |
| Medium (50-100 sq ft) | 1 CFM per sq ft | Standard full bathroom |
| Large (>100 sq ft) | Calculate by fixtures | Add 50 CFM per toilet, tub, shower |
| Jetted Tub | +100 CFM | Additional ventilation needed |
Wiring Options:
Duct Requirements:
| Fixture Type | Placement | Rating Required |
|---|---|---|
| Vanity Sconces | 60-66" from floor (center), flanking mirror | Damp-rated |
| Vanity Bar Light | Above mirror, 78" from floor | Damp-rated |
| Shower/Tub Light | Centered over tub/shower | Wet-rated (IP65+) |
| Recessed Ceiling | General area lighting | Damp-rated (wet if in shower zone) |
Recommended Lumens:
| Circuit | Rating | Wire | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outlets (GFCI) | 20A | 12 AWG | Dedicated circuit required |
| Lighting | 15A | 14 AWG | Can share with other rooms |
| Exhaust Fan | 15A | 14 AWG | Can share with lighting |
| In-Wall Heater | 20A | 12 AWG | Dedicated, hardwired |
| Heated Floor | 15-20A | 12 AWG | Dedicated GFCI circuit |
| Whirlpool Tub | 20A | 12 AWG | Dedicated GFCI, accessible disconnect |
Standard Heights:
ADA Compliant Heights:
This comprehensive bathroom electrical cheat sheet is designed for DIY homeowners and electricians working on bathroom renovations, remodels, or new construction. Bathrooms present unique electrical challenges due to the presence of water, requiring strict adherence to GFCI protection requirements and proper fixture ratings.
Understanding bathroom electrical zones, proper exhaust fan sizing, and circuit requirements is essential for creating a safe and code-compliant bathroom. This guide covers the most common residential bathroom electrical scenarios, from installing GFCI outlets near sinks to wiring heated floors and whirlpool tubs.
Always consult your local building codes, as requirements may vary by jurisdiction. For complex bathroom electrical work, consider hiring a licensed electrician to ensure safety and code compliance.