Bathroom Zones
The diagrams and information shown below are a guide to Bathroom Zones. It is important to install an electric towel rail in the correct bathroom zone, i.e. the zone referred to in the IP rating of the element. This is not an installation guide and reference should be made to the latest edition of the IEE Wirings Regulations or a qualified electrician.
IMPORTANT:
In Zone 1, elements must be protected by 30mA RCD (Residual Current Device). The electrical connection to the power supply for these elements must be in Zones 2/3 of the bathroom in compliance with BS7671:2001 - I.E.E. Wiring Regulations. NOTE: It is recommended that NO electric or dual fuel towel rails are installed within shower cubicles.
Zone 0
This is inside the bath or shower tray itself. Any fitting used in this zone must be low voltage (max12v) and be rated at least IP67 which is total immersion proof.
Zone 1
This is the area above the bath or shower tray to a height of 2.25m from the floor. In this zone a minimum rating of IP44 is required and elements must also be protected by a 30mA residual current device (RCD) to protect the circuit. The electrical connection to the power supply for these elements must be in zones 2/3 of the bathroom in compliance with BS7671:2001 - IEE Wiring Regulations.
Zone 2
This is an area stretching 0.6m outside the perimeter of the bath and to a height of 2.25m from the floor. In this zone an IP rating of at least IP44 is required.
Zone 3
This is anywhere outside zones 1 and 2 (subject to specific limits) and where no water jets is likely to be used. No IP rating is required. In addition to the above if there is a likelihood of water jets being used for cleaning purposes in zones 1, 2 and 3, an element rated at a minimum of IP65 must be used.
Full details can be found in the latest copy of IEE Wiring Regulations.