In short, yes, you can use electric heaters in a bathroom. However, this is only if they’re designed for it. Bathrooms mix water and electricity, so safety isn’t just important, it’s legally required. That means using the right heater, in the right zone, with the right protection.
In this guide, we’ll break down what “safe” really means, from IP ratings and bathroom zones to why fixed installation matters. Plus, we’ll show you the best options for safe, efficient warmth, including NEOS electric radiators, built for British bathrooms.
Understanding bathroom safety zones, and why they matter, is an extremely important starting point when looking for bathroom heating. UK bathroom safety regulations split the space into zones, each based on how much moisture and splash risk is present. These zones determine what kind of electric heating can be used:
Zone 0 is inside the bath or shower. Only IPX7-rated products can be placed here. This means totally waterproof products, so no heaters!
Zone 1 is the area above the bath or shower, up to 2.25m high. In this area, only fixed units rated at least IPX4 can be fitted.
Zone 2 extends 0.6m outside the bath or shower, and has the same rules as zone 1; only fixed units rated IPX4 or higher can be fitted.
Moisture is still a possibility outside of these zones so for peace of mind, we’d recommend sticking to heaters that are fixed and are rated at least IPX4 throughout the entire room.
IP stands for Ingress Protection. These codes tend to sound confusing and complicated, but they’re really just a safety shorthand. For bathrooms, it refers to how well something can handle water.
IPX4 - splash-proof from all directions. This is the minimum rating for bathroom-safe electric radiators.
IPX5 - can withstand low-pressure water jets, like a shoer head pointing directly at it.
IPX7 - immersion-proof, so can survive being briefly submerged
For most bathrooms, IPX4 is the minimum standard for electric radiators. If your radiator will be close to a major splash zone, go for a higher rating. For example, if you have a wet room, different standards must be met due to higher moisture and splash risks.
Portable electric radiators and bathrooms don’t mix. This style of radiators aren’t designed for moisture, and come with the major risk of being knocked over near water, or trailing cables across a wet floor.
Installing fixed units is a much safer (and smarter) option. These heaters are professionally mounted to the wall, preventing cables trailing across the wet floor. Since they’re designed for humid environments, these models have sealed electronics and integrated controls.
Not only that, wall mounted electric radiators (like our NEOS) are slimline and tidy, meaning they save space in these smaller rooms, but also look nice when fitted to the wall.
Here are three smart and safe options for your bathroom:
Electric towel rail: A classic choice, drying your towels and warming your space at the same time. Look for programmable timers to prevent energy wastage when the room isn’t in use. Towel rails are great when combined with an additional radiator but can be ineffective when used as the only heat source.
Panel heaters: These heaters tend to slim and wall mounted, so can be great for compact spaces. However, you need to check that they’re specifically designed for bathrooms, since standard models don’t tend to have the required safety features.
NEOS electric radiators: Our NEOS electric radiators are designed and manufactured for comfort and effectiveness, not just efficiency. With several features helping it achieve lower running costs and fast warm up times, it can be a great option for bathrooms. Not to mention the variety of smart control options to match your heating schedule to your lifestyle! To learn more about how the NEOS works, click here.
The NEOS electric radiator is designed to deliver warmth where and when you need it, making it a strong match for bathrooms, which we use consistently but not all the time.
Each NEOS electric radiator contains a soapstone corethat retains heat and continues to emit it after the power switches off. This can take place for up to 40 minutes after the power’s switched off, but the exact time is dependent on the nature of your space, for example, the quality of your insulation.
We offer three different control options for the NEOS; a manual integrated protostat, a wireless system, or app control. Each of these provide the option to programme your radiators to match your lifestyle. Think of early morning boosts of heat, followed by another boost in the evening. This way no heat is being wasted on heating your entire house through the day, while you’re at work. It’s convenient. And it’s easy!
That means performance, safety, effectiveness and peace of mind, all in one tidy package.
Safe and efficient bathroom heating doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re planning a renovation, upgrading an old system, or just want to stop stepping onto freezing tiles every morning, the right electric radiator makes all the difference.
Click here to book a free consultationand receive a free, no obligation quote for your bathroom. Alternatively, click here to download a guide and learn more about the NEOS.
Tags: Bathroom Heating.
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