Electrical Contractors | 3 Considerations When Planning Electrical Outlets In Your Bathroom

Water is an excellent electrical conductor, which makes it incredibly challenging to plan electrical outlets in damp areas like bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. You should know that the electrical outlets in every bathroom in Australia are governed by certain rules and regulations. Consider these factors when working with your electrical contractors to plan electrical outlets in your bathroom.

Know The Safety Regulations Regarding Electrical Outlets In Bathrooms

Before planning the positioning of your electrical outlets, you should know that bathrooms are typically divided into four zones. Zone 0 is the wet area, which includes the insides of your shower and bath area. Zone 1 includes the Zone 0 area, the shower, the bathtub and a shower/bath combination. For Zone 1, the horizontal radius should be 1.2 metres away from the connection of the fixed shower and up to 2.5 metres in height from the base of the shower or bathtub. Keep in mind that no electrical outlets are permitted in Zone 0 and Zone 1. Zone 2 is 0.6 metres away from Zone 1's horizontal radius. For Zone 2, only with Residual Current Detectors (RCD) sockets are allowed with foxed ratings that cannot exceed 30mA. Any sockets fitted in vanities should be enclosed with appliances connected to them. Zone 3 is usually the rest of the bathroom and is regarded as the safest zone inside, but sockets can only be installed at a height over 300mm. Your electrical contractors will advise you on these factors before you can arrive at a final decision regarding the positioning of your electrical outlets.

Install Safety Switches

Your safety is fundamental at all times, so never make callous decisions when it comes to electrical installations in wet bathrooms. Safety switches are designed to monitor circuit electrical flow and will cut power supply if any leaks are detected from jagged wiring or defective switches. These safety switches minimise potential damage and could save you from fatal shocks, so you may want to get your electrical contractors to install them inside your moisture-laden bathroom.

Avoid Placing Electrical Outlets Near Liquid Storage Spaces

Got a storage cupboard for your creams, after shaves, hand washes and mouthwashes? Avoid making the mistake of installing electrical outlets right near them because you could potentially be in danger, especially if you inadvertently touch them with your wet hands. You'll also want to avoid placing liquid bottles over outlets and appliances because this could end up causing short circuits and may even trigger small electrical fires.

Keep in mind that only licensed electrical contractors can undertake electrical repairs and installations, so make sure you work with them to ensure the highest standards of safety in your bathroom.


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