Overview

Modern ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans are compact and readily installed in a variety of settings. NEC 2023 introduced a new subsection in 422.18 to address the use of ceiling fans in wet locations, such as bathing areas. This change prioritized human safety.

Applying the 2023 Code

Modern ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans are available in various designs, often compact enough for installation in diverse settings. In NEC 2020, Section 422.18 addressed the installation requirements for standard ceiling fans but lacked provisions to prevent contact with the metallic parts of the fan in wet locations like bathing areas. This gap meant fans could be installed in zones with a high risk of inadvertent contact. To address this safety concern, NEC 2023 revised the section on ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans, introducing a new subsection (B) prohibiting the installation of metal parts directly above bathtub and shower spaces. This update designates a 3 x 8 feet non-installation zone around the bathtub rim and shower stall, ensuring safer installation practices and reducing electrical hazards in wet locations for users’ safety.

What’s New for the 2023 NEC?

The below presents a comparison between the 2020 NEC and the 2023 NEC regarding Section 422.18.

2020 NEC

422.18 Support of Ceiling-Suspended (Paddle) Fans
Ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans shall be supported independently of an outlet box or by one of the following:
(1) A listed outlet box or listed outlet box system identified for the use and installed in accordance with 314.27(C)
(2) A listed outlet box system, a listed locking support and mounting receptacle, and a compatible factory installed attachment fitting designed for support, identified for the use and installed in accordance with 314.27(E)

2023 NEC

422.18 Ceiling-Suspended (Paddle) Fans
(A) Support
Ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans shall be supported independently of an outlet box or by one of the following:
(1) A listed outlet box or listed outlet box system identified for fan support installed in accordance with 314.27(C)
(2) A listed outlet box system, a listed weight-supporting ceiling receptacle, and a compatible factory-installed weight-supporting attachment fitting that is installed in accordance with 314.27(E)
(B) Location
No metal parts of ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans in bathrooms and shower spaces shall be located within a zone measured 900 mm (3 ft) horizontally and 2.5 m (8 ft) vertically from the top of the bathtub rim or shower stall threshold. This zone is all-encompassing and shall include the space directly over the tub or shower stall.