Bathroom Electrical Safety: GFCI, Exhaust Fans, and Code Requirements

Bathrooms combine water and electricity, making them one of the most dangerous rooms in your home. Proper electrical safety is essential.

GFCI Protection Is Required

All bathroom outlets must have GFCI protection. These devices cut power instantly if water or a ground fault is detected, preventing fatal shocks.

Exhaust Fan Installation

Bathroom exhaust fans remove humidity that can damage wiring and promote mold. They should be on a dedicated circuit and vented to the exterior.

Dedicated Circuits

The bathroom receptacle circuit must be a dedicated 20-amp circuit. Lighting and exhaust fans can share a separate circuit.

Weather-Rated Fixtures

In shower and tub areas, fixtures must be rated for wet locations. Recessed lighting in showers requires specific wet-rated housings.