Bathroom fixtures must meet special requirements since they are located in a damp area. Lighting fixtures of this type are always designed as a closed structure to prevent water from penetrating the electrical contacts.
There are many models of waterproof lamps, and in order to make the right choice when purchasing, you need to understand the nuances of this type of device.
The difference between waterproof lighting fixtures and conventional ones
At first glance, it is difficult to distinguish moisture-resistant devices from ordinary ones. The main differences lie not in the appearance of different types of devices, but in their internal details. Moisture-resistant lamps are equipped with additional elements, the main task of which is to protect the socket, terminals and electronic unit from moisture penetration.
Under no circumstances should water get inside the lampshade. Therefore, the first factor that you need to pay attention to when purchasing is the presence of sealing rubber at the joints between the lampshade and other parts of the device. It is also necessary to have special waterproof plugs located at the wiring input into the housing.
Moisture resistance is a quality that is not characteristic of ordinary lamps. Therefore, resistance to moisture is always indicated in the accompanying documentation (technical data sheet), as well as on the packaging.
Types of equipment for outdoor lighting systems
Depending on the functions performed, equipment for outdoor lighting systems can be divided into:
- Sources of light. This name includes all types of devices that produce light.
- Lighting. Equipment necessary for the operation of light sources and the distribution of light radiation in space. This type has many types and classes depending on the light source used, installation method and other parameters.
Auxiliary elements. These can be various diffusers, light filters, concentrators, reflectors. The functional task of this type of equipment is to distribute light at the desired angle, in the desired color range and given intensity. Also, auxiliary equipment includes various brackets, hangers and flexible mounting lines on which luminaires that do not have their own fasteners of the required type are placed.
Control nodes. Complexes that ensure uninterrupted operation of lighting devices, regulating backlight on/off cycles, its intensity, direction and other parameters. Devices equipped with these functionalities include all kinds of automatic complexes with sensors and analyzers. Also, control nodes include a set of software and hardware equipment that interacts with outdoor lighting systems.
• Safety and protective elements. Serve to ensure the safety of lighting fixtures, light sources and other devices from the effects of various aggressive factors. Here you can note numerous casings, cases, lockable cabinets, lampshades, trims, etc.
When drawing up an outdoor lighting project by designers and lighting engineers, the first two types of equipment will have special importance. It is light sources and lighting devices that play a key role in creating an effective street lighting system and original artistic lighting.
Types of waterproof lamps
Waterproof equipment is usually divided into different types depending on the installation location, installation method and type of light bulbs. Each type of lamp has both pros and cons. Therefore, it is impossible to single out any type of lighting fixture as the best.
Lamp location
There are three types of devices - wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted and floor-mounted. Usually they try to install the first two, much less often they are placed on the floor. The main reason for this is that bathrooms are rarely large enough to accommodate a floor lamp. It is the lack of space that dictates the need to install all kinds of interior details in niches, suspended ceilings, under the sink or bathtub.
Mounting method
According to this feature, lamps are divided into three types:
- Built-in (mortise). Installed on the ceiling, in walls or floors, in furniture or any other interior items. They are characterized by a significant variety of dimensions and shapes. At the same time, they are the simplest in design: they are a housing equipped with clamps.
- Overlays (external). Such devices are placed on solid foundations. External models are popular in cases where it is impossible to install a mounting niche (for example, when it comes to a concrete ceiling). Also, overhead devices are used if the lighting device is used not only for its intended purpose, but also as decoration. There are many variations in execution: from the most unremarkable to the most exquisite. Based on their location, overhead devices are divided into ceiling-mounted and wall-mounted.
- Hanging. This type of lamps is the least used. Such devices are suspended from a ceiling mount. In this case, the device is not located flush with the ceiling, but at a certain distance. For fixation, hooks, hangers, or even a power cable are used. Any ceiling is suitable, including slatted, suspended ceiling, concrete, and plasterboard. The main condition is that the ceiling height must be sufficient for mounting the lamp. Suspended models are also available for wall mounting and are mounted on adjustable brackets.
Bulb type
The brightness of the light and energy consumption depend on the type of lamp installed in the lamp. Most lamps are suitable for any type of light bulb, so the choice of a specific type depends on the preferences of the residents.
| Type of light bulb | Technical features |
| Luminescent | Characterized by low power consumption and long service life. The light spectrum practically corresponds to daylight. Light output is higher compared to incandescent light bulbs. The disadvantages of fluorescent light sources are damage due to voltage surges, high prices for lamps and a delay in warming up |
| Incandescent lamps | This type is resistant to temperature changes and power surges. There are light bulbs on sale with a matte coating, the light from which spreads more evenly and does not give a glare effect. For the bathroom, you should choose lamps in the power range from 15 to 40 W. The disadvantage of this type of device: the light bulbs are prone to severe overheating, which leads to the melting of the housing made of plastic |
| Halogen | This type of lamp produces a directional beam of light and is typically used for recessed lighting. Halogen light bulbs are characterized by increased luminous efficiency, long service life, and compactness. Disadvantages of halogen lamps: rapid overheating, responsiveness to power surges, sensitivity to the appearance of grease stains on the surface. The last disadvantage entails the need to use gloves or wipes when handling these light sources |
| LED | Diode bulbs operate from a low-voltage power supply and are therefore absolutely safe. LEDs do not overheat, use energy sparingly, and provide good light output. Their service life is longer compared to any other types of light sources. They have LEDs and a significant drawback - high cost |
Lamp power
One of the main indicators that you need to pay attention to in order for the bathroom to be well lit is the power of the lamps.
Correct placement is important, but if the lamps are dim, you won’t be able to achieve good lighting. Think about lighting even at the renovation stage, choosing between a suspended and a regular matte ceiling
If possible, install as many energy-saving lamps as possible
Think about lighting even at the renovation stage, choosing between a stretch ceiling and a regular matte ceiling. If possible, install as many energy-saving lamps as possible.
The power of incandescent lamps ranges from 40 to 60 W. LED lamps have power from 1 to 14 W. In this case, a 7 W LED lamp will shine the same as a regular 60 W lamp - take this into account when choosing lamps so that you do not have to change lamps in the future. In addition, not all lamps can be used in the bathroom - choose only those that have high moisture protection.
Halogen lamps
Before connecting lamps in a small bathroom, make sure that you have installed enough sockets and outlets to accommodate the lamps. The ideal option for the bathroom is halogen lamps; they are suitable for any type of suspended ceiling.
PHOTO: obustroeno.com Replacing halogen lamps is quite simple if you follow the instructions and follow basic safety rules
12 W halogen spotlights are great for use in damp areas. You can also install small transformers on each light bulb - this will increase their service life in damp conditions.
Incandescent lamps
The most inexpensive and easiest to use are incandescent lamps. Their big advantage is that they light up immediately after switching off. However, such lamps do not last long, about a thousand hours.
For longer lasting, high quality options, consider LED and halogen lights
PHOTO: cdn.genuinefootball.casaYou can place several lights throughout the room or focus several types of lighting on one point, such as near a mirror
Incandescent lamps are suitable if you do not need too bright light and you have regular plastic lamps installed that will not melt or catch fire from contact with very hot incandescent lamps.
Fluorescent lamps
The advantage of fluorescent lamps is natural white light. Choose any color temperature - lamps are available in warm, daylight or cool colors.
Keep in mind that when the voltage in the network drops, such lamps quickly turn off, and during operation they emit a characteristic crackling sound.
PHOTO: apbaths.co.uk A great option is to hang a couple of lamps with fluorescent lamps above the mirror
LEDs
LEDs consume a small amount of energy but have a long operating life of about 50,000 hours. The cost of LEDs is quite high, and they need to be carefully placed in the bathroom in order to get high-quality lighting.
Use LED strips to create soft, unusual lighting from below - place the strips on the bottom edge of cabinets and shelves.
PHOTO: profstudia.ru Place an LED strip under the bathroom - you will get unusual and beautiful lighting. However, this method is only suitable if your bathtub has a wide wall that will protect the lamp from water. If you doubt the quality of the bath, it is better to attach a strip with LEDs to the mirror or to the walls of the cabinets
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Protection of lamps
The security of light sources is determined according to a special security index. It is a European standard where protection ratings are indicated by a pair of numbers and letters (for example, IP44). The letters are an abbreviation for Index of Protection. The first digit indicates the degree of protection against the penetration of solid dust particles into the device, and the second - protection against the ingress of liquids (including aggressive ones).
For some device models, a third digit is provided, indicating the degree of shock resistance of the device. However, for bathrooms the third number is unimportant, and the first two are decisive. It is the moisture resistance and ability to resist dust that determines whether the installation of a particular lamp model is suitable for the bathroom.
IP protection indices
The tables list the characteristics corresponding to a particular class of protection against dust or moisture specified in the IP.
Compliance with dust protection classes is shown in the first table:
| Index indicator | Characteristics |
| 0 | Lack of any protection |
| 1 | The lamp is protected from large solid elements smaller than 5 centimeters in size from entering the housing |
| 2 | The lighting device is protected from contact with objects whose size exceeds 12 millimeters |
| 3 | The device is protected from penetration by elements larger than 2.5 millimeters |
| 4 | Any particles larger than 1 millimeter are not dangerous. |
| 5 | The device is protected from the ingress of dust that could affect the performance of the lamp |
| 6 | The maximum achievable degree of protection of the luminaire from dust contamination |
The following table shows the moisture protection classes:
| Index indicator | Characteristics |
| 0 | No protection from moisture |
| 1 | The lamp is protected from water drops falling onto the device vertically. Protection only against condensed moisture is possible |
| 2 | The lighting device resists particles hitting it at an angle of up to 15 degrees relative to the vertical |
| 3 | There is protection against drops falling on the lamp at an angle of up to 60 degrees |
| 4 | The device is reliably protected from water penetrating from any side and at any angle. |
| 5 | Protection not only from drops, but also from water jets |
| 6 | Ability to work in seawater conditions |
| 7 | The device operates under fluid pressure conditions. This protection class is required when immersed under water to a depth of 1 meter |
| 8 | The lamp operates at great depths |
Humidity zones
Bathrooms are usually classified into zones according to the degree of exposure to moisture on lighting fixtures. The choice of luminaire should be correlated with the humidity zone in which it is installed:
- First zone. It is the wettest area in the bathroom. The level reaches 100%. The first zone includes the bath itself, as well as the interior space of the shower stall. In this area, it is allowed to install only light bulbs that operate on low voltage (12 Volts). For this area, luminaires with a degree of protection of at least IP67 are recommended.
- Second zone. This includes walls up to a height of 2.25 meters from the end of the bathtub. Luminaires must be protected from steam, splashes and accidental exposure to water jets. IP45 protection index is recommended. Allowable voltage: within 12-24 Volts.
- Third zone. Extends 60 centimeters from the border with the second zone. Here the luminaires are usually not directly exposed to water, but must be protected from condensation. The minimum level of protection is IP24.
- Fourth zone. This zone includes all other space that does not fall into the first three zones. The recommended protection index is one or more for steam.
First thing you need to know
Any electrical device has its own degree of protection - IP. It characterizes the level of protection of the device from the penetration of dust and moisture into the housing. As a rule, this parameter is the key to uninterrupted operation of the LED lamp throughout its entire period of use.
In 1976, the International Electrotechnical Commission adopted a standard that is still in force today. In short, it contains a detailed description of the tests that result in determining the level of protection of the equipment. This level is indicated by the IP sign and two numbers next to it. The first number shows the class of protection of the case against the penetration of solid particles, the second - about resistance to moisture getting inside.
IP67 - complete dust protection and moisture resistance
Primary requirements
Requirements for lamps installed in the bathroom are usually divided into three groups: safety, brightness, design.
Safety
Since the bathroom is characterized by high humidity, electrical wiring must be completely protected. Lamps with a completely closed sealed housing are allowed. The device must be at a safe distance from water. According to GOST, this distance is at least 50 centimeters.
Brightness
The level of illumination in the room needs to be comfortable for humans. Cosmetic procedures are carried out in the bathroom (for example, applying masks or shaving), and therefore the light should be bright enough.
Light bulb power standards (W per square meter):
- light diodes (LED lamps) - from 6 to 9;
- incandescent lamps - from 20 to 30;
- halogen bulbs - from 23 to 28.
Advice! If the bathroom has a dark finish, it is recommended to choose more powerful light bulbs.
Design
A number of recommendations relate to the design of lighting fixtures. There is a wide variety of lamps on sale in different styles. The most popular solutions are:
- Classic style. The interior, made in a classic style, is associated with the use of natural materials (stone, wood, leather). This style is suitable for both a ceiling lamp (for example, a chandelier) and a wall lamp (for example, a sconce or spot). Classic solutions also include the use of forged products and crystal and bronze elements.
- Japanese style. The solution is distinguished by external calm and tranquility. The light from lighting fixtures is soft, slightly diffused. The shape of the lamps is often unusual, replete with complex outlines.
- Modern style. All design elements have some function. There are no parts that are useless from a practical point of view. Modern is more suitable when zonal rather than central lighting is organized. LED lighting is often used in this style.
- Provence style. This style requires the presence of a window in the bathroom. To organize sufficiently high-quality lighting, large chandeliers or floor lamps are used. Moreover, the light sources should resemble plants in their shape or finish. All forms are characterized by free lines, without geometric regularity.
Note! Plastic and glass products are more preferable than metal, as they are not subject to corrosive processes.
Application and precautions
Moisture-proof lighting structures are used in places of high humidity in areas of country houses, for example, to illuminate plants, pools, ponds or fountains, or are placed along the perimeter of reservoirs to illuminate their boundaries for safety purposes.
Underwater lights are installed at the bottom of the pond (if the depth does not exceed 4 meters) or on its side walls. They are used if there are beautiful plants, stones or other decorative elements in the pond that require lighting.
It is prohibited to install lamps near water that are not intended for this purpose.
When installing lighting fixtures in places of high humidity, it is important to observe the following conditions:
- Provide durable and moisture-resistant insulation for electrical wiring.
- Provide a circuit breaker that will shut down the system if wiring or appliance damage occurs.
If a transformer is required to operate the lamp, it should be placed in a dry place protected from water.
The best manufacturers
The most popular products from the following companies:
- Downlight Lug. The Polish company primarily produces lamps for bathrooms. Waterproof and impact-resistant products are equipped with specially shaped housings and lampshades, thereby preventing excessive light scattering. The devices allow you to redirect the light flux in the desired direction, which is convenient for zoning the room. There are several lines of this Polish manufacturer, including Vandallug, Diamond and Star Premium lamps.
- Massive (Belgium). The products of the Belgian manufacturer belong to the upper price category and are of high quality. Lamps of various protection classes are produced. Some products are designed to work in saunas or baths, and not just bathrooms. The range includes both ceiling and wall lamps. The company has several product lines that differ in style: Aqua Oasis, Katie and Adrio.
- Eglo (Austria). The products are characterized by a unique design: the lamps are made in curved shapes with soft outlines. Lampshades are usually plated with chromium or nickel, since these metals protect the base material from oxidation. Some products are made of plastic and covered with fiberglass for greater durability. The company's product range includes wall and ceiling lamps. Among the brands worth noting are Palmera and Mono.
- Arte Lamp (Italy). The products of the Italian company are distinguished by high quality, bold design and long service life. Product lines: Hall, Aqua.
- Kanlux (Poland). The company produces both built-in and hanging lamps (ceiling and wall). The scattering elements are made of metal with polymer inserts. The fasteners are made of stainless steel. Pendant light housings are usually polyester or fiberglass. Of all the listed manufacturers, Kanlux produces the most affordable products. The most popular brands are Volin, Argus (with switch), Turk.
4. The item bears the designation of the electrical equipment group
| Electrical equipment | Group sign |
| Rudnichnoye, intended for underground workings of mines and mines | I |
| For indoor and outdoor installation (except mine) | II |
Subgroups of electrical equipment of group II
| Electrical equipment group sign | Electrical equipment subgroup sign | Category of explosive mixture for which electrical equipment is explosion-proof |
| II | — | IIA, IIB and IIC |
| IIA | IIA | |
| IIВ | IIA and IIB | |
| IIC | IIA, IIB and IIC |
Electrical equipment of group II, depending on the value of the maximum temperature, is divided into six temperature classes corresponding to groups of explosive mixtures, where the maximum temperature is the highest temperature of the surfaces of explosion-proof electrical equipment that is safe with respect to ignition of the surrounding explosive atmosphere.
Temperature classes of electrical equipment group II
| Temperature class | Self-ignition temperature, ºС | Group of explosive mixtures for which electrical equipment is explosion-proof |
| T1 | Above 450 | T1 |
| T2 | From 300 to 450 | T1-T3 |
| T3 | From 200 to 300 | IIA and IIB |
| T4 | From 135 to 200 | T1-T4 |
| T5 | From 100 to 135 | T1-T5 |
| T6 | From 85 to 100 | T1-T6 |
Tips for choosing a lamp
To choose a suitable lamp for the bathroom, it is recommended to adhere to a number of rules:
- The degree of protection of the device is IP55 or more.
- Use spot lighting whenever possible. This reduces energy consumption, and the luminous flux becomes more accentuated.
- If it is not possible to install spotlights for some reason, it is recommended to install directional lighting bulbs. They allow you to create high-quality lighting in given areas (for example, you can install a lamp above a mirror so that it illuminates only the area near the washbasin).
- The best lamp option is a 12-volt product. It does not pose a threat to human life and health. However, in this case you will have to buy a step-down transformer.
- If it is not possible to run wires, it is recommended to use wireless lamps. They are battery powered and are just as safe as 12 volt ones. A wireless device is usually used as a remote light source.
If you wish, you can save money and connect the lamp yourself. At the same time, you should not get carried away by the cheapness of products from some manufacturers. It is better to choose a product that is more expensive, but from a European company that has long established itself. Chinese ones most often do not meet the requirements for quality products. Such products can be unsafe, which is unacceptable when it comes to lighting equipment for the bathroom.
Black fungus in the bathroom
If mold appears in the bathroom, you also cannot do without treating surfaces with antifungal compounds. In severe cases, it will have to be removed along with the plaster and tiles, and the affected areas will have to be cleaned of sealant and paint. After completing the work, it is necessary to make sure that the pipes and faucets are not leaking, and to eliminate any damage. The joints of plastic parts can be treated with sealant.
Sometimes it is not possible to identify the source of the fungus, but it may be hiding on the back wall of the toilet tank, under the bathtub, or in the rubber seal of the washing machine. All efforts will be in vain if later the bathroom is poorly ventilated again or the neighbors constantly flood it.
Classification and benefits
In addition to the method of installing wall lamps, they are also classified according to the following criteria:
- style (modern, classic, hi-tech, loft, etc.)
- type of lampshade (open, closed);
- the material from which the lampshade or lampshade is made (glass, plastic, textile, metal, wood and combinations);
- lampshade shape (round, rectangular, square, figured, etc.);
- the color of the lampshade or lampshade (white, colored, patterned, etc.);
- type of installed lamp (incandescent, fluorescent, energy-saving, LED, halogen);
- power;
- color rendering;
- method of switching on (switch on the wall, switch on a cord, remote switch);
- lighting direction (down, up, side, combined);
- degree of protection (standard version, dust and waterproof).
Lovers of laconic forms install wall lamps called spots. These modern products have gained their popularity due to their originality. They can be equipped with one or more lamps. They are used to illuminate both rooms and works of art, because... The design of such a spot is made in such a way that the lighting can be directed in the desired direction. With their help, an intimate and original atmosphere will be ensured. Manufacturers even produce spots for suspended and suspended ceilings, which are especially popular.
