Brantford Electrical Services: Installing Outlets in a Bathroom

The electricity in your bathroom should function conveniently and safely. When installing outlets for hair dryers, lamps, and other appliances, it’s important to consider the relevant safety codes, the needs of different people who use the bathroom, aesthetic appearance, and convenient outlet placement. A licensed electrician in Brantford can help with all of this.

Electrical Codes 

Outlets are governed by a number of important safety codes. Those who provide electrical repair services should start with learning about the International Residential Code, National Electric Code, and local municipal codes. Most of the rules specify a minimum number of outlets that need to be in every bathroom. The moisture present in bathrooms brings up specific conditions that outlets need to follow such as:

• Including GFCIs (Ground-Circuit Fault Interrupters) 

• Being placed within 36 inches of a sink

• Ensuring that no outlets are placed face-up on a countertop

• Installing lights on a separate circuit from appliances 

• Measuring 36 inches away from a bathtub before installing outlets

GFCIs measure the regular flow of the current and shut off the circuit if a surge or imbalance happens. This prevents electrocution. The distance parameters also prevent cords from falling into open water.

Personal Electrical Needs

Take stock of the number and type of appliances you use in the bathroom. Hair driers, shavers, hot irons, and cleaning implements will add load to the circuits. If multiple devices will be used simultaneously, additional outlets can be installed accordingly. Standalone lighted mirrors may also need their own outlet. Think about cord-keeping strategies such as having a plug strip underneath the cabinet or in a discreet area.

Aesthetics

Outlets can be unsightly, especially for the design-conscious. To make them more visually appealing, they can be colour-matched with the tile or paint in the bathroom. Aligning outlets horizontally or parallel with backsplashes and grout can help them disappear somewhat. They can also be coloured as a dramatic contrast to create a design element. For example, a glossy black outlet cover superimposed on a brilliant white tile could be visually appealing.

Flush-mount outlets are thin and barely visible. They integrate seamlessly with the texture of their surroundings and wall colours. Flush outlets have to be installed by a professional because they are part of the drywall installation process. The electric receptacle is placed in the drywall itself and then secured with plaster mud or caulk.

Places To Install Them

Some outlets can be installed neatly out of sight, such as under a vanity counter in the bathroom. They can also be positioned face down along the bottom edge of a medicine cabinet, to keep them out of sight. Outlets cannot be placed near a shower or tub, to prevent shock and electrocution.

There is nothing more frustrating than having wet hair, pressed for time, and not being able to find an outlet for your hair dryer. Outlets should be visible from all angles of the room and easy to access. They should not be on top of the wall above the large mirror where they are difficult to reach.

Hire an Experienced Electrician in Brantford 

Handyman Connection is your go-to source for all your home improvement needs. Bathroom renovation, maintenance, repair, and design upgrades are a regular part of how we do business. Request a quote for your project today.

We guarantee all of our work in writing, within one year of the service date. Our superior customer service and attention to detail have earned us repeat customers over the years. Reviewers of our service praise our timely technicians, courteous demeanour, and affordable prices. We know that letting someone into your home is a big decision. You can trust us to get the job done quickly and leave your home better for it.