The bathroom is a multi-use room.
Not only is it a space for daily routines and getting ready, but it is also a space for relaxation and rejuvenation.
That means you need the right lighting, fittings and electrical fixtures to meet all those needs.
You also need to consider the fact that your bathroom is a wet space and will require special attention to ensure the right electrical solution is installed.
So, we’ve put together our list of the dos and don’ts of bathroom electrics so that you can create a functional and safe haven for your daily rituals and relaxation.
The Dos and Don’ts Of Bathroom Electrics
The Dos
Do: Choose The Right Fittings
Bathrooms are considered wet areas, but not all areas in the bathroom get soaking wet! So, it’s all about thinking practically for the lighting and various other fixtures in your bathroom. In the areas that do experience a lot of water, such as your shower or bath, you want to make sure you have appropriate lighting to meet electrical safety standards.
You also want to consider your powerpoints and light switches, ensuring they are safe for bathroom use. Your electrician will be able to guide you in this area.
Do: Think About Placement
You want your bathroom to seamlessly flow and be easy to use. So, consider where you are placing the electrics in order to help you achieve this end result. Power points should be near your vanity and mirror, light switches should be easily accessible when you enter the room, and your extractor system should be near the shower to work efficiently.
Also, consider your lighting. It is generally recommended to have multiple lighting sources. Obviously, you’ll have your standard downlighting to fill the room with ambient light. But, this alone will not provide you with the precision lighting you need near the mirror. So, ensure you discuss focused task lighting with your electrician for this area.
Do: Consider Aesthetics
Ensuring your bathroom is practical is the first priority, but you also want it to be a beautiful space at the same time. There are plenty of things you can do to achieve a gorgeous visual experience.
Here are some ideas:
- Choose lights that create a feature as well as offer good lighting
- Match your cupboard handles to your fittings
- Set a colour palette so that everything ties in
- Choose light switches and power point plates that complement your other fittings
Do: Decide Major Or Minor
There are plenty of small tweaks you can make in the electrical department to make your bathroom more usable. But, if you want to undertake a major renovation, plan for everything up front! Items like underfloor heating are difficult to install once your tiles or flooring are laid, so plan for them early on if you want to include them in your home.
The Don’ts
Don’t: DIY
The biggest don’t of bathroom electrics is… don’t DIY! Any form of electrical work in your home must be done by a qualified electrician. This is to ensure your electrics meet NZ safety standards and that installation is done correctly.
Adhering to these rules is important in any area of your home, but never more important than in the bathroom due to the fact that water and electricity do not mix well! Do your family a favour and leave any bathroom electrical work to a qualified electrician.
Don’t: Forget Ventilation
Proper ventilation helps to reduce humidity and moisture from lurking in your bathroom. A well ventilated bathroom is less likely to attract nasties like mould and mildew. It will also help to prolong the life of your electrical fittings, reducing the chance of corrosion.
Don’t: Plug In Too Many Things
Like every other power point in your home, the one in your bathroom will have a maximum capacity. So, don’t plug too many things into it at once or you run the risk of it overloading. Not only is this annoying as it will likely trip your circuit breaker, but it can also pose a fire risk as overloading generates a lot of excess heat.
Don’t: Use The Combo Light
One of the most common items found in a New Zealand bathroom is the light/heat lamp/extractor fan combo. Usually situated smack dab in the middle of the ceiling, it is operated by multiple switches. Here's the kicker though, this super popular item is not actually the best option.
If you do your research, you will find that individual systems will do a more effective job. LED downlights are the perfect base lighting option for a bathroom, standalone extractor fans are more efficient, and there are better heating options than the heat lamp.
So, chat with your electrician about which alternatives will suit your bathroom and steer clear of the multifunction unit!
Bathroom Electrics Need Work?
Need some fittings replaced, some electrical solutions, or planning a full blown bathroom renovation? Then, the team here at Retrolec can help you.
Contact us today to chat about your needs.
