Here’s How You can Make Your Bathrooms Safe 

We all love to renovate our homes every once in a while, be it for increasing property value or ensuring that the place aces a home inspection in Brevard County. From our living room to the bathroom, a change in scenario is great to make your interiors look upscale and inviting.  

However, when renovating your house, especially the bathroom, there are certain codes to follow. These could be the National Electrical Code (NEC) or a local building code, which will help keep your place safe. Failing to meet these codes can lead to fines or, worse, failing the home inspection.  

So, here are four things you need to do to keep your bathrooms safe to use.  

The right number of circuits 

A bathroom should have at least two circuits, which should be dedicated to the room and nowhere else. Lighting fixtures and wall switches need separate circuits of 20 amp receptacles, and so should large fixtures or appliances. Furthermore, these must be GFCI and AFCI-protected. While these are NEC guidelines, your local building codes may be stricter or relaxed.  

Bathroom receptacles 

NEC requires you to have at least one GFCI-protected outlet connected to a 20 amp circuit. However, most bathrooms have around 4-5 receptacles spread across the room. Their placement is crucial, as wrong placement can lead to electrical problems later. A general rule of thumb is to place a receptacle at least 5-6 feet away from the edge of the tub or shower screens and around 1 foot away from the sink basin. 

Getting an exhaust fan 

Ventilation is necessary for a bathroom. Like a kitchen, it accumulates a lot of moisture over time, which can cause harm to your appliances or, worse, lead to mould and mildew growth. Therefore, NEC and most local codes require you to have either a window or vent fan in the bathroom; some even ask for both. Depending on the model of the fan you get, you may need a separate circuit for it. You should choose reputed brands like manrose.

Lighting requirements 

When it comes to lighting, bathrooms usually have several different types in specific areas. NEC requires you to have at least one light, a ceiling-mounted one. This can also be combined with a vent fan. Most homeowners have at least three types of lights: fixture over or near the mirror, vent-light fixture in the shower, and a ceiling fixture. Make sure the shower lights have a waterproof covering to keep you and the bulb safe. 

Conclusion 

Renovating is no small project. What can make it even more complicated is all the building codes you will need to follow to ensure your house doesn’t falter in a home inspection in the future. These basic NEC requirements are easy to meet and ensure your safety and others who use your bathroom.