It's been a long time since the bathroom in your home enjoyed a full makeover. As you are making up for lost time, you'll want to ensure that you introduce as many modern upgrades as you can to make this important room into a place that all the family will enjoy. As you have got a reasonable amount of space to work with, you can really go to town and may want to introduce a number of electrical gadgets. However, you will need to proceed with caution as electricity and water are not good bedfellows, so you will need to ensure that you pay attention to the zoning system laid down by regulators. How does this help you design your new bathroom?
Never Be Too Cautious
Some appliances or plugs are less dangerous than others when situated in a room where water is prevalent. This is why experts have introduced these individual zones, and you should always ensure that you monitor every placement carefully as you proceed.
Zoning Restrictions
On the 'serious' end of the scale is an area that is likely to be totally immersed in water. This could be towards the bottom of a shower stall or around a bathtub. Most electrical items cannot be introduced here, but some may be so designed. You will need to check their ingress protection number. This should be clearly marked on the device.
Moving up the scale, certain items may be placed relatively close to the source of water but may not be submerged. For example, they may be splashed when somebody is using the shower or bathtub, and they will have a very different type of rating number. Once again, exercise extreme caution when choosing any devices or situating any plugs here.
Further Caution
Don't be tempted to wire in an appliance that may be moved while it is operational. A hairdryer comes to mind as these devices usually have a twisty cable that allows the user to walk around as they are drying their hair. This installation has to be carefully regulated so that the individual does not move the live dryer into a hazardous area inadvertently.
Electricians Only
Once you have drawn up your zones and planned your installation, always bring in a qualified electrician to do the work carefully for you. They will help to ratify your zoning analysis and will provide you with professional advice at every stage of the project.
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