Ya think this fixture is suitable for wet location?

**Marc M** · 03-10-2011, 09:31 PM

How come the 8x3 rule doesnt apply to this type of fixture? This isnt the most waterproof fixture IMO.

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James Duffin · 03-10-2011, 09:40 PM

I would guess it is because it is not located within the actual outside dimension of the bathtub or shower.

**Jim Port** · 03-11-2011, 05:43 AM

The 3x8 zone applies to pendant type fixtures, track lights and ceiling paddle fans. This is not any of those so the rule does not apply.

Do you think that the ceiling meets the NEC definition of a wet location?

Location, wet. Installations underground or in concrete slabs or masonry in direct earth contact; in locations subject to saturation with water or other liquids, such as vehicle washing areas; and in unprotected locations exposed to weather.

**Rick Hurst** · 03-12-2011, 10:01 AM

Would have not made my report.

rick

**Marc M** · 03-12-2011, 10:24 AM

I guess this question was taken out of context. I was simply wondering "why" ceiling fans are okay and not this. This is just was "un water proof" as a fan. And no, this was not raised as an issue, I understand the code, like I said, it was just my curiosity.

**John Kogel** · 03-12-2011, 05:19 PM

Marc, is that last post really what you meant to say?
That is a bathroom light fixture. A ceiling paddle fan is not.

Debra Monte · 03-12-2011, 07:59 PM

Originally Posted by Marc M

How come the 8x3 rule doesnt apply to this type of fixture? This isnt the most waterproof fixture IMO.

This is common, these are the exhaust fans that are sold for the bathrooms and areas with moisture. It is not installed inside the shower or bath area itself. More important, is the fan functioning correctly? Did you check the airflow, if not with the anemeter, with the tissue test? Is it dirty, noisey, vibrating too much? These are usually signs/symptoms that it is not exhausting the moist air properly or at all. Did you check the installation of the duct? Is it a flex duct or rigid metal (preferable) and is it vented properly to the outside? Are there any leaks in the ducts or around the fan housing or is it properly sealed and insulated if in the attic?

**Marc M** · 03-12-2011, 08:32 PM

Originally Posted by John Kogel

Marc, is that last post really what you meant to say?
That is a bathroom light fixture. A ceiling paddle fan is not.

Really John? Wow, how insightful.

410.4(D) Bathtub and Shower Areas
No parts of cord-connected luminaires (fixtures), chain, cable, or cord suspended luminaires (fixtures), lighting track, pendants, or ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans 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 includes the zone directly over the tub or shower stall. Luminaires (lighting fixtures) located in this zone shall be listed for damp locations, or listed for wet locations where subject to shower spray.

Handbook Commentary:
A revision of 410.4(D) simply clarifies that securely fastened luminaires installed in or on the ceiling or wall are permitted to be located in the bathtub or shower area. Where they are subject to shower spray, the luminaires must be listed for a wet location. Luminaires installed in the tub or shower zone and not subject to shower spray are required to be listed for use in a damp location.

**John Kogel** · 03-13-2011, 08:10 AM

Originally Posted by Marc M

I was simply wondering "why" ceiling fans are okay and not this.

Originally Posted by John Kogel

Marc, is that last post really what you meant to say?
That is a bathroom light fixture. A ceiling paddle fan is not.

I'm just pulling your chain here, that statement looked backwards to me.

**Marc M** · 03-14-2011, 08:39 PM

Originally Posted by John Kogel

I'm just pulling your chain here, that statement looked backwards to me.

Ohhh, no worries John, we're good.

Mike agnello · 03-16-2011, 07:39 AM

My assumption is that the code is concerned w homeowners trying to change a lightbulb by standing onthe wet deck of the tub.
Most (if not all) wet location electrical codes seem to make it impossible to reach a fixture while in or on the wet location. Disconnects for jaccuzis are also out of reach for someone in the tub.
The only exception would be lights in enclosures, but I would think light fixtures designed for wet location may need to be grounded or are 'safer' if handled while standing on wet surface.