440.8 Single Machine and Location.

HVAC equipment not permitted within a zone measured 3 feet horizontally and 8 feet vertically from the top of a bathtub rim or shower stall threshold.
Click to Enlarge
HVAC equipment not permitted within a zone measured 3 feet horizontally and 8 feet vertically from the top of a bathtub rim or shower stall threshold.

Code Change Summary: New requirements added to address HVAC equipment installed near bathtubs and showers.

It can be difficult to find a suitable location in a small bathroom to install a mini-split or other HVAC system equipment. Often, the space over the bathtub or shower is considered as a possible solution. Installing electrical equipment in these areas can create a hazard as occupants may choose to turn the unit off or on while bathing or showering.

In the 2023 NEC®, section 440.8 was expanded to include a zone at bathtubs and shower spaces where air-conditioning and refrigeration system equipment is prohibited. The zone specified is consistent with other areas of the NEC® that prohibit the installation of receptacles, ceiling fans and specific luminaire types at bathtubs and shower areas.

The revised 2023 NEC® language in Section 440.8 states that air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment is prohibited from being installed within a zone measured 3 feet horizontally and 8 feet vertically from the top of a bathtub rim or shower stall threshold. This zone is all-encompassing and includes the space directly over the tub or shower stall.

Below is a preview of the NEC®. See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2023 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.

2020 Code Language:

440.8 Single Machine. An air-conditioning or refrigerating system shall be considered to be a single machine under the provisions of 430.87, Exception No. 1, and 430.112, Exception. The motors shall be permitted to be located remotely from each other.

2023 Code Language:

440.8 Single Machine and Location. An air-conditioning or refrigerating system shall be considered to be a single machine under the provisions of 430.87, Exception No. 1, and 430.112, Exception. The motors shall be permitted to be located remotely from each other. Air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment shall not be installed within a zone measured 3 feet horizontally and 8 feet vertically from the top of a bathtub rim or shower stall threshold. The zone shall be all-encompassing and include the space directly over the tub or shower stall.

Did You Like This? Let Us Know With A Like! Thanks!

440.8 Single Machine and Location.

Below is a Real Question from our Electrical Continuing Education Courses for Electrical License Renewal:

Based on the 2023 NEC, which of the following is true?

A: HVAC equipment is permitted in the bathtub.
B: HVAC equipment is permitted below the shower stall threshold.
C: HVAC equipment is NOT permitted in any bathroom.
D: Air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment is prohibited from being installed within a zone measured 3 feet horizontally and 8 feet vertically from the top of a bathtub rim.
Please register or sign in for electrical continuing education courses.

If you were already signed in, your session probably expired, please sign back in.