How have 2023 NEC changes impacted receptacle installation near bathtubs and showers?
Overview
Installing receptacles in wet locations poses numerous risks and safety hazards, including electrical shock and equipment damage due to moisture exposure. Previously, receptacles were mandated to be installed outside a designated zone around moisture sources like bathtubs and shower stalls. However, this zone was found inadequate, leading to a revision of Section 406.9(C) for the 2023 edition of the NEC. The updated section expands the zone to cover the area beneath the tub rim and introduces new rules to prevent improper receptacle installation near bathtubs and showers. These changes are aimed at enhancing safety in wet environments.
Applying the 2023 Code
Installing receptacles in wet locations poses safety hazards due to electrical shock and potential equipment damage. Wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, outdoors, and industrial sites are prone to moisture, which can seep into receptacles and create paths for electricity to flow unpredictably, leading to shock risks and short circuits. Additionally, water exposure can corrode conductors and terminals, reducing their effectiveness. Therefore, it’s crucial to follow safety standards when installing receptacles in wet or damp environments.
In Section 406.9(C) of NEC 2020, a zone was specified around bathtubs and shower stalls where receptacles were not permitted for installation. However, this zone did not extend to the area below the bathtub rim, leading to confusion and improper practices. To rectify this issue, the 2023 edition of NEC revised Section 406.9(C) to include the areas both inside and outside the bathtubs and shower stalls. As per the updated regulation, receptacles are now prohibited from being installed inside the tub or shower and within 3 feet horizontally from the outer edge of the bathtub or shower stall, including the space beneath this area.
This additional requirement was made to clarify rules for receptacles near bathtubs and showers, promoting safer installations and reducing potential hazards.
What’s New for the 2023 NEC?
The table below presents a comparison between the 2020 NEC and the 2023 NEC regarding Section 406.9 (C).
2020 NEC |
2023 NEC |
| (C) Bathtub and Shower Space
Receptacles shall not be installed 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. The identified zone is all-encompassing and shall include the space directly over the tub or shower stall. Exception: In bathrooms with less than the required zone the receptacle(s) shall be permitted to be installed opposite the bathtub rim or shower stall threshold on the farthest wall within the room. |
(C) Bathtub and Shower Space
Receptacles shall not be installed inside of the tub or shower or within a zone measured 900 mm (3 ft) horizontally from any outside edge of the bathtub or shower stall, including the space outside the bathtub or shower stall space below the zone. The zone also includes the space measured vertically from the floor to 2.5 m (8 ft) above the top of the bathtub rim or shower stall threshold. The identified zone is all-encompassing and shall include the space directly over the bathtub or shower stall and the space below this zone, but not the space separated by a floor, wall, ceiling, room door, window, or fixed barrier. Exception No. 1: Receptacles installed in accordance with 680.73 shall be permitted. Exception No. 2: In bathrooms with less than the required zone, the receptacle(s) required by 210.52(D) shall be permitted to be installed opposite the bathtub rim or shower stall threshold on the farthest wall within the room. Exception No. 3: Weight supporting ceiling receptacles (WSCR) shall be permitted to be installed for listed luminaires that employ a weight supporting attachment fitting (WSAF) in damp locations complying with 410.10(D). Exception No. 4: In a dwelling unit, a single receptacle shall be permitted for an electronic toilet or personal hygiene device such as an electronic bidet seat. The receptacle shall be readily accessible and not located in the space between the toilet and the bathtub or shower. |
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