Lighting a Bathroom Tub

bathroom

My upstairs bathroom has a bathtub with no light over it, worse yet, we use a privacy curtain diminishing the light even further. This is a pain, especially when shaving and is generally unpleasant.

What kind of lights can I install, and can a light be placed over a bathtub for illumination?

I was considering also considering installing a bathroom fan, and I'm aware that some of them have lights on them, but everyone I've talked to about this has said that the fan should not be placed directly over the tub (I suppose due to winter drafts?).

What's the best way to light the tub, and what specs should I look for either in lighting or in a humidity extractor?

Bathtub picture with curtain: enter image description here

Best Answer

Per NEC 410.10.B there is a restricted area 8' above the rim of the tub and this extends 3' to the side of the tub this is why you usually do not see lighting in this location. But it can be done with a fixture listed for wet locations. These fixtures usually seal so water cannot get in. If this is only a tub not a shower a damp location fixture could be used (not getting splashed) but I prefer the wet location fixtures.