3 Tips to Promote Electrical Safety in Your Bathroom

Water is called “the Universal Solvent” because it dissolves more substances than any other liquid; water dissolves gases in the atmosphere, so even rainwater is not “pure water.” The water from the sink, shower, and toilet is a solution and therefore conducts water VERY well. When you understand that your body is also approximately 70% a solution of water and other chemicals, you understand the danger your family faces with electricity in your bathrooms.

Clean water is essential to human health and hygiene. While keeping clean we add chemicals like soap and shampoo, making water a very good conductor. Electricity makes the bathroom very convenient—illuminating hygiene regimens and keeping you warm. Some common bathroom appliances, such as space heaters and hair dryers, carry a lot of currents, the dangerous part of electricity. Wow!

Electric shock is serious, causing burns, interruption of nerve and heart signals, and sometimes leads to death. Since water and electricity are in close proximity to your bathroom, here are some tips to help protect your family and guests.

Electrical Safety in Your Bathroom: Wiring

• Exposed wiring in your bathroom is extremely dangerous. This should be addressed immediately for the safety of all.
• If your home requires an electric heater in the bathroom, it should be installed on the wall or ceiling, away from standing water, and hardwired into a protected circuit.
• Take the effort to recess or enclose light sockets. Fixtures that are hanging free from the wall or ceiling are very dangerous.

Electrical Safety in Your Bathroom: Switches

• Install light switches at a safe distance from showers and sinks. Water from a wet hand should not come in contact with switches, since it can find electricity inside the electrical box. The next person to use the switch may come in contact with electricity. Yes, this is common sense, but don’t forget or get careless.
• Pull strings are safe options in bathrooms.
• Make sure your body is dry and there is no standing water before switching on an appliance such as a hairdryer or flat iron.

Electrical Safety in Your Bathroom: Outlets

• All outlets in bathrooms should be ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). These outlets sense an improper grounding of electric current and shut off the power immediately, potentially saving the life of a person who is being shocked. GFCI outlets are recognizable, with “test” and “reset” buttons in the center.
• Make sure GFCI outlets are installed a safe distance away from the water in a shower or sink. Use plastic outlet covers when the outlet is not in use.

Hire a licensed electrical professional for electrical installations or renovations in your bathrooms. This gives you the assurance the end results will be a safe setting when water and electricity are in close contact.

Have questions about Electrical Safety in Your Bathroom

Our four decades of experience as a Houston Electrician and contractor AirPro Houston provides you with the skill and expertise to protect you and your family from potential electrical hazards in your bathroom.

We have financing options available with great options with up to 72-month terms with approved credit. Call us today at  281-880-8805 and let us partner with you for all of your electrical repair and installation needs.