Shower light in bathroom Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[prospector]

I want to install an IP65 downlighter in my shower. I believe new IEE regs say bathroom circuits need to be RCD protected. Since I put in a RCD at the consumer unit protecting the whole house some years ago can I assume this is sufficient - or would I now need to add in an RCD FCU into the upstairs lighting circuit?

Also, would I be better to choose a low voltage light rather than mains voltage?

Many thanks!

[ericmark]

As long as it is protected by a 30ma RCD its OK. As to low voltage v extra low voltage it would depend on location but discharge cold cathode lamps are only available as low voltage and not extra low voltage and since tungsten lamps are being with drawn you need to consider what you will use once they have gone. Also lamps held by the rim can in most cases take the extra length of cold cathode those held by pin will stick out and look rotten. Even if not bothered now better to make them future proof.
Note low voltage is mains voltage the 12 volt types are extra low voltage normally also separated with transformer from the low voltage supply so have label SELV.
Please also note for bathrooms other than changing like for like you need to inform the LABC before you start under Part P and in real terms it will often be cheaper to get a registered electrician to do the work than DIY because of council charges.