When do you need to use an IP44 light in a bathroom?

Finding the right light fittings to use in your bathroom can be a tricky matter, especially if your electrician or a quick internet search points you towards IP44 rated fittings. Whilst there are areas where IP44 rated fittings are essential or highly recommended, often a standard fitting (IP20) will suffice – giving you a much greater scope when choosing the right fitting.

To ensure clarity around what you are shopping for, it is crucial to understand the regulations concerning bathroom lighting.

Which are the areas where IP44 lights need to be used?

Below is a diagram showing the different bathroom zones. According to the regulations, lights in Zone 2 must be IP44 rated. So, as an example, if you want to put lights on either side of a mirror, place them just outside of Zone 2 (i.e. more than 60cm from the water source) and you can then use regular lights that are not IP44 rated. It is worth noting that common sense should be applied, especially if it is a public space or if children are likely to use the room, and it is always worth taking the advice of an electrician.

Zone 0 and Zone 1 are the most heavily regulated when it comes to safety. Zone 0 covers submerged lights which must be completely immersion proof. Zone 1 is the area right above the bath, up to 2.25 metres from the floor, where IP65-rated lights are recommended.

IP44-rated lights can be used in Zone 2 and Zone 3 (Outside Zones). This means within 60 cm from the edge of the bath and up to 2.25 metres high from the floor. Note that the area within 60 cm above a basin is also Zone 2 and needs IP44 or higher-rated lights.

IP44 Rating Diagram

How to convert non-IP44 lights for bathroom use?

Keep in mind, not all bathroom fixtures are at risk of getting wet, so they don’t always need to be IP44 rated. IP44 fittings are meant for areas where water spray is a hazard. Here are some tips on how to use non-IP44 lights while still following the rules:

If you have your sights set on a bathroom pendant light but it hangs too low above the bath or sink, one possible solution is to shorten the flex cable so it stays out of the splash zone and into Zone 3. After all , just moving it a few centimetres can move your light from one zone to the next.

Another easy trick for making your preferred light bathroom-suitable is by using a sensible shade to prevent splashing. Large shades with small openings are the ideal choice to prevent water from getting in – like our Customisable Grafton Globe.

Can Fritz Fryer lights be converted for bathroom use?

Most of our lighting fixtures can be adapted for bathroom use, even if they aren’t specifically part of our bathroom lights range. Here is a list of some lights we offer that are often used in bathrooms instead of IP44-rated ones: