What is the code for a light fixture above a tub?
Already Tried: This is a general question: I need to know how high must the light be above a tub? Is the measurement based on the water line or the bottom of the tub?
Thank you for asking your question on Just Answer. My name is Joseph, "The Electric Doctor". Before we begin, can you give me more background on this?
What do you need?
Basically what you need to do is install a recessed light with a weather proof baffle. Any other kind of light fixture is not going to be rated for use above a bath tub.
You can put a fixture above the tub as long as it is a certain distance above the waterline. I've done it before.
There really isn't a height requirement - but it does need to be water tight rated. You cant just slap any old light up. That is why I said you should use a recessed light with a water proof baffle.
Sorry, but you CAN slap a chandelier above a tub- it just has to be 6' or 6' 6" above the waterline- that was what I was trying to find out.
Check your codes.
Are we talking about bath tubs here or a pool? And if you have a code reference to back up your claim let me have it so I can reference it against what I have.
Ok just because you found that picture on the internet does not make the install legal or correct. Here is exactly what the code says about what you want to do. 410.10(D) Bathtub and Shower Areas. No parts of cord connectedluminaires, chain-, cable-, or cord-suspended luminaires,lighting track, pendants, or ceiling-suspended(paddle) fans shall be located within a zone measured900 mm (3 ft) horizontally and 2.5 m (8 ft) vertically fromthe top of the bathtub rim or shower stall threshold. Thiszone is all encompassing and includes the space directlyover the tub or shower stall. Luminaires located within theactual outside dimension of the bathtub or shower to aheight of 2.5 m (8 ft) vertically from the top of the bathtubrim or shower threshold shall be marked for damp locations,or marked for wet locations where subject to showerspray.
Experience: Electrical Contractor
Thank you- that's much better!!!