Electrical safety in the bathroom is non-negotiable. With constant exposure to steam, splashes, and humidity, every fitting must be designed to resist moisture. That’s where an IP rating comes in — a simple code that indicates how well a product is protected against water. Understanding this rating is key to selecting and safely installing a heated towel rail that performs reliably in your bathroom environment

What Is an IP Rating?

“IP” stands for Ingress Protection, a standard defined by AS/NZS 60529 that measures how well an electrical product resists intrusion from solids (like dust) and liquids (like water).

The two digits that follow “IP” each describe a level of protection:

• The first digit (0–6) refers to protection against solid objects and dust.
   
• The second digit (0–9) refers to protection against moisture.
   

For example, IP45 — the rating applied to most Newtech heated towel rails — means the product is protected against solid objects over 1 mm and against low-pressure water jets from any direction. In practical terms, it’s built to handle steamy conditions and occasional splashes without compromising electrical safety.

Bathroom Zones Explained

Bathrooms are divided into electrical “zones”, based on how close fittings are to water sources. These zones are defined by AS/NZS 3000:2018 and determine what IP rating (and voltage) is required for any electrical appliance installed in that area:

• Zone 0: Inside the bath or on the shower base  — no towel rails or electrical fittings may be installed.
   
• Zone 1: The area directly above the bath or inside a shower enclosure, up to 2.25 m high. Products here must be low-voltage (12 V) and rated IP44 or higher.
   
• Zone 2: The area within 600 mm of a bath, shower, or basin. Appliances must be IP44 or higher, and 240V fittings may be used.
   
• Zone 3: Anywhere outside Zone 2 — no specific IP rating is required, but moisture-resistant fittings remain advisable.
   

This zoning ensures that even in a humid, splash-prone environment, every component is appropriately rated for the level of exposure it will face.

What This Means for Heated Towel Rails

Newtech’s IP45-rated heated towel rails, such as the Evoke 5-Bar Heated Towel Rail are designed specifically for Zone 2 installation, making them safe for use near baths and showers when installed by a registered electrician.

For Zone 1 installations — such as inside an enclosed shower — Newtech’s 12 V models, like the IP55-rated Polo Vertical Heated Towel Rail, are suitable options. Their transformer is located outside the wet area, allowing greater flexibility in compact bathrooms.

Safety and Installation

Every Newtech heated towel rail must be installed by a registered electrician in accordance with AS/NZS 60335 and AS/NZS 3000 wiring regulations. To reduce hazards for young children, the lowest heated rail should be at least 600 mm above the floor, and the switch or timer should be positioned outside the wet zone. These requirements ensure both compliance and peace of mind.

For more information on safe installation and everyday use, see Newtech’s blog, “How Hot Do Heated Towel Rails Get? A Guide to Safety and Efficiency” which explores temperature ranges, safety standards, and energy performance in detail.

Built for New Zealand Bathrooms

Crafted from durable stainless steel and available in a variety of finishes — from Chrome to Brushed Brass, Gunmetal, and Matte Black — Newtech’s heated towel rails combine safety with architectural appeal. With IP45 protection, 10-year construction warranties, and 5-year finish warranties on selected colours, they’re built to perform beautifully in moisture-rich New Zealand bathrooms..

Ready to add comfort and confidence to your bathroom? Explore Newtech’s full range of heated towel rails here, or contact the team at sales@newtech.co.nz or on 0800 728 662 for tailored advice.