You thought you could put any light in your bathroom? I didn't think so. The wet character of bathrooms and shower rooms must be taken into account. Indeed, depending on the location of your light point, you will have to comply with a few standards in force concerning the choice of luminaire.
WHY ARE THERE SPECIFIC REGULATIONS FOR WASHROOMS?
Who has never turned their bathroom into a hammam while taking a shower or a bath? Indeed, the mist generated by the hot water fills the room and settles on the walls, mirrors and other surfaces. It is this same mist that is also deposited on your light fixtures. And, as you probably know, electricity and water never mix.
To prevent moisture from damaging your electrical installation and eventually becoming dangerous, there are standards to be respected.
WHAT ARE THESE STANDARDS?
Humidity zones have been determined: volume 0, volume 1, volume 2 and volume 3.
Volume 0 corresponds to the inside of your bathtub or shower. In other words, there are rarely any electrical outlets at this location...
Volume 1 corresponds to the area where your water point is installed.
Volume 2 extends from the end of volume 1 + 60 cm on the floor, and up to 2.25 m in ceiling height.
Volume 3 extends from the end of volume 2 + 2.40 m on the floor, and up to 3 m in ceiling height.
For each of these volumes, there is a category of luminaire, more or less watertight.
- IP Index X7 for volume 0
- IP Index X4 for Volumes 1 and 2
- IP Index X1 for Volume 3
Beyond these volumes, you can install the light fixture of your choice. However, it is still advisable to install a light fitting corresponding to volume 3, to guarantee the safety and durability of your electrical installation.
