IP Ratings and Bathroom Light Zones
There are three main bathroom zones:
- Zone 0: Inside the bath or shower cubicle – min IPx7
- Zone 1: The area directly above the bath or shower up to a height of 2.25 metres – Min IPx5
- Zone 2: A 60cm wide area immediately next to ZONE 1, around the wash basin and over 2.25 metres high directly above the bath or shower cubicle – Min IPx4
- Note: 240v IPx4 fittings can be used in zone 1 if the circuit is protected by a 30ma RCD (residual current device)
Whatever you choose, your bathroom light fittings must have an IP rating. IP stands for Ingress Protection, which in this case relates to water, either from a shower head or similar, or from steam. The first number relates to the impact resistance of the fitting and the second relates to its level of protection against water and steam. In both cases the higher the number the greater the protection. Full information can be found by following the link to our Bathroom Light Zones guide.
Main types of Bathroom Lighting
Available in every style to complement your bathroom from ultra-modern to the more traditional or period look. In smaller bathrooms, a compact flush or spotlights are a great choice. Larger or period bathrooms look fantastic with crystal fitting or a chandelier.
Forever popular, they are inexpensive to buy, versatile and simple to fit, and you can fit as many or as few as you like. They need to be chosen with care, so you use the right type for its location. Further information is available by following this link: Recessed downlights explained.
Primarily used to illuminate an area that would otherwise be in shadow. Good examples include wall lights mounted above or alongside a mirror or mirrored cabinet. These shine light directly onto your face making shaving or applying make-up much easier.
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Bathroom mirrors with integral lights
Mirror lights are excellent and illuminate your face directly. They are available in different sizes and some even have demister pads attached to ensure that they remain clear when there is steam in the room.
Top tips:
To achieve perfect results, always try and choose a combination of at least two types in your bathroom. The important thing to remember is that it can almost never be too bright.
Plain mirrors are an excellent way of making a small bathroom look brighter and larger. A central ceiling light and strategically placed mirror can make the smallest bathroom look spacious.
If you require any further help in selecting your bathroom lighting, please contact us for friendly, honest and down to earth advice.
Bathroom Lights FAQ’s
What are bathroom lighting zones?
To ensure the correct IP rated light fitting is used in the different areas of a bathroom, the room has been divided up into zones
- Zone 0 – Any light fitting within the actual shower, bath or basin where the fitment could be submerged or partially submerged must be rated IPX7 or higher
- Zone 1 – The area directly above a shower or bath up to a height of 2.25m, often called ‘The Splash Zone’ must have a fitting with an of IPX5 or above
- Zone 2 – The area adjacent to any Zone 1, both above and to the sides, up to 600mm must have a fitting of IPX5
- Outside these zones there are no legal requirements necessary however it is well worth installing lighting that has an IP44 rating as most bathrooms can be very steamy at times and this should safeguard you from any potential issues in the future.
How bright should bathroom lighting be?
It is a good idea to have bright lighting in a bathroom due to the tasks carried out. This is especially useful above the basin where you are likely to complete such tasks as shaving and putting on make-up. Having dedicated lighting above or surrounding any mirrors to ensure that the area is well illuminated is usually a good choice. It is recommended to opt for daylight (4000K) for task lighting in a bathroom.
Are lighted bathroom mirrors worth it?
Yes, because they give direct light onto your face and hair, they are the perfect way to ensure that you never leave your house with a hair out of place, a tidemark from your make-up or shaving foam on your chin.
What LED lights are suitable in a bathroom?
LED lights can be used successfully in a bathroom in various types of light fittings, as long as you ensure that they have the correct rating for the area that you are planning on using them.
