Replies

1. 
   DanH | May 25, 2004 06:57pm | #1

   I don't recall the details of the rule, but the basic rule is that unless the fixture is rated for wet areas it must be out of normal reach of anyone in the tub, standing or sitting. I'm sure someone here can quote chapter and verse.

   Unless you have 15-foot ceilings to work with, it might be better to consider a "passive" chandelier, with no lights in it but spotlights shining on it from across the room. Otherwise, something with fiber optics might work out.

1. 
   peteduffy | May 25, 2004 07:24pm | #2

   More info, now that I took a look at it.

   Not a shower, just a tub, surrounded by a tiled deck.

   From top of deck to current ceiling box is 9'8"

   New light fixture hangs down about 25" and is about 2' in diameter

   I can't see a problem with anyone standing in the tub reaching it.  Plus, it's right about on the front edge of the tub.

   The bottom of the fixture would be about 7'7" from the tub deck, which I'm guessing is about 2' higher than the floor.

   Would you hang it?Pete Duffy, Handyman

1. 
   DanH | May 26, 2004 01:06am | #3

   Seven-seven is about the limit of the average person's reach, so safety-wise you're probably OK. Code-wise may be another matter.

   Just a point (that probably isn't "operational" at seven-seven): In addition to concerns about the shock hazard, common sense would tell you that anything within reasonable reach should be strong enough to hold 50-100 pounds, since a slipping person will grab for anything. Would not be good to slip and fall AND have a chandelier fall on top of you.

1. 
   dbtodd | May 26, 2004 04:11am | #4

   code wise it should be gfi protected,  the passive idea is a good one,  maybe you could make it spin to double as a high class disco ball

2. 
   househelper | May 26, 2004 06:22am | #5

   NEC says no part of a hanging fixture may be located within a zone measured 3 ft horizontally and 8 ft vertically from the top of the bathtub. That includes the area directly over the tub. The idea is that a person of average height can't stand on the tub rim and touch a cord connected light, hanging fixture, pendant fixture or ceiling fan.

1. 
   peteduffy | May 26, 2004 06:29am | #6

   Thanks, that was just the info I was looking for.

   Meant to include a sketch, but having computer problems.  Don't need to now, since I have the answer.Pete Duffy, Handyman

3. 
   danlott | May 26, 2004 11:47am | #7

   If she wants the chandelier hanging closer to the tub you might suggest a candle chandelier.  There are many different styles out there, from very simple to very ornate.  This would solve all the electrical problems, plus still give her what she wants.

   Dan

   "Life is what happens when you are making other plans." - John Lennon