can anyone explain to me why the code does not require gfci protection for a recessed light listed for a damp or wet location over a bath tub or shower 410.10(D),and does require gfci prot. for a recessed light over a hot tub or spa 680.43(B)(1).to my way of thinking both types of tubs present a hazard associated with people standing in water and maybe in the case of a damaged recessed light being subjected to a shock or electrocution hazard.I don't think the fact that a spa or hot tub having a motor and a bath tub not having a motor should preclude a bath tub or shower not having gfci prot. for recessed lights within 7.6 feet or 8 feet above the outline of the tub or shower.
gfci protection not required over bath tub
- Thread starter tommyrice
- Start date
- Status
- Location
- Chapel Hill, NC
- Occupation
- Retired Electrical Contractor
So a light has an egc and is located over a shower and you think that it is a hazard? Obviously there has not been documentation of this install being a problem. Hot tubs have different requirements then hydromassage tubs. Hot tubs have chemicals which makes the water more conductive then bath tub water. Most people cannot reach the trim on a can that is 8' high.
hurk27
Senior Member
- Location
- Portage, Indiana NEC: 2008
Bath tubs are more likely to be drained, hot tubs would more likely not be drained, to change a lamp.
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kbsparky
Senior Member
- Location
- Delmarva, USA
Most manufacturer's instructions will require GFCI protection of lights mounted over tubs. 110.3(b)
roger3829
Senior Member
- Location
- Torrington, CT
I don't think I have ever seen a requirement for GFCI protection of a recessed light.
- Location
- Windsor, CO NEC: 2023
- Occupation
- Hospital Master Electrician
- Location
- Chapel Hill, NC
- Occupation
- Retired Electrical Contractor
Actually most fan/lights req. gfci if installed over a shower but there are some cans that also req. it-- most do not.
Also, all recessed cans can have an open bulb over a shower if it is rated for damp location and it is more than 8' over the rim of the shower or tub.
I install open bulbs in cans over hydromassage tubs all the time- no shower so height doesn't matter.
Also, all recessed cans can have an open bulb over a shower if it is rated for damp location and it is more than 8' over the rim of the shower or tub.
I install open bulbs in cans over hydromassage tubs all the time- no shower so height doesn't matter.
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