Bathrooms are one of the most tightly regulated areas of a home when it comes to electrical work — and the area around a bathtub is especially critical. Water, moisture, and electricity are a dangerous combination if wiring isn’t installed correctly.
At Smiley Electric, we frequently correct unsafe bathtub-area wiring during bathroom remodels and inspections across Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro, and surrounding areas. Here’s what every homeowner should understand.
Why Bathtub Wiring Has Special Rules
Electrical code places strict limits on what can and cannot be installed near a bathtub because:
- Water increases shock risk
- Moisture accelerates corrosion
- Improper clearances can cause electrocution
That’s why bathtub wiring must meet NEC and Oregon Electrical Specialty Code requirements.
GFCI Protection Near Bathtubs
Any electrical device near a bathtub must be protected.
GFCI Requirements
- All bathroom receptacles must be GFCI-protected
- Circuits serving bathroom outlets must be 20 amps
- GFCI protection is required for lighting and equipment in wet locations
GFCIs shut off power instantly if a fault is detected, preventing serious injury.
Lighting Over and Around Bathtubs
Lighting placement is one of the most common inspection failures.
Key Rules
- Fixtures over tubs must be rated for wet or damp locations
- No pendant or hanging fixtures allowed over tubs
- Recessed lights must be properly sealed and rated
- Clearances must be maintained above the tub rim
Heated Tubs, Jacuzzi & Soaking Tubs
Modern bathtubs often include electrical components:
- Jacuzzi or whirlpool tubs
- Heated soaking tubs
- Air jet systems
These features require:
- Dedicated circuits
- Proper bonding and grounding
- Accessible service disconnects
- GFCI-protected power
Improper installation can damage equipment or create serious safety hazards.
What’s NOT Allowed Near a Bathtub
To protect occupants, the electrical code prohibits:
- Standard outlets within the tub zone
- Switches reachable from inside the tub
- Extension cords or power strips
- Non-rated fixtures above the tub
If your bathroom still has older wiring that violates these rules, it should be corrected during remodeling.
Bathtub Wiring During Bathroom Remodels
Bathroom remodels often require:
- Relocating lighting or switches
- Adding GFCI protection
- Installing new circuits for tub features
- Updating wiring behind tile and walls
Older homes in Portland and Beaverton frequently have outdated wiring that doesn’t meet current safety standards.
Cost to Update Bathtub Electrical Wiring
Costs vary based on scope and access:
- Minor corrections (GFCI, fixture swap): $300–$800
- Dedicated circuit for tub equipment: $800–$2,000
- Full bathroom electrical remodel: $2,000–$5,000+
Smiley Electric provides clear, upfront estimates before work begins.
Why Professional Bathtub Wiring Matters
Professional installation:
- Protects your family from shock hazards
- Ensures code compliance
- Prevents inspection failures
- Supports modern tub features safely
- Protects insurance coverage
Bathroom electrical work is never the place for shortcuts.
Bathroom & Bathtub Wiring Experts
Smiley Electric specializes in:
- Bathtub and bathroom wiring
- GFCI and AFCI protection
- Bathroom remodel electrical upgrades
- Lighting and heated tub circuits
We proudly serve Portland, Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard, Lake Oswego, and nearby communities.
👉 Contact Smiley Electric today to schedule a bathroom electrical inspection or remodel consultation.