Bath Chandelier Dos and Don'ts

Fancy Bath Lighting

Photo by Anthony Tieuli

Judging from our mailbox, This Old House readers love to hang fancy lighting in their bathrooms. But, to be completely honest, some of your photos make us a little skittish. Safety codes and common sense call for added caution when installing a pendant-style fixture in a wet environment. Keep the following pro-vetted practices in mind, and you'll avoid sparking any problems.

Leave Proper Clearances

Photo by Compassionate Eye Foundation/Digital Vision/Getty

By code, the bottom of the chandelier must be at least 8 feet above the highest point on the tub's edge or 3 feet beyond it.

Plan for Moisture

Photo by Courtesy of Schoolhouse Electric Co.

Choose a fixture that's U.L.-rated for wet or damp locations; the fixture should feature tight construction that keeps out water and condensation.

Protect Yourself From Shocks

Photo by Taka

Make sure that the wiring in the bathroom is protected with a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), which will cut the current if it senses unsafe conditions.

Go off The Grid

Photo by kida/iStock

Don't have high ceilings for a chandelier? Consider a decorative candle fixture instead. Use dripless candles; keep flames at least 12 inches from flammable materials and always extinguish them before leaving the room.