Would you like to install a heated towel rail in your bathroom safely and correctly? This Bestherm guide walks you through the process step by step for a successful, long-lasting and compliant installation — so you can enjoy optimal thermal comfort every day.
The importance of a compliant and safe installation
A poorly installed heated towel rail can compromise safety, reduce the lifespan of the appliance and affect its thermal performance. It is essential to observe the required safety distances, regulatory zones and electrical requirements set out in the electrical standard NFC 15-100.
1. Choosing the ideal location for your heated towel rail
The right position for your heated towel rail is essential to ensure both safety and performance. For a compliant installation, it is recommended to:
- Install the appliance at least 60cm from a water source
- Position the bottom of the appliance at least 60cm from the floor to optimise the operation of the sensor
- Fix the appliance to a dry, sound and solid wall, away from direct splashes and draughts
All Bestherm heated towel rails are suitable for bathroom use thanks to their Class II rating (double insulation) and IP24 protection index, guaranteeing optimal resistance to water splashes.
2. Safe electrical connection of your heated towel rail
An electric heated towel rail must never be plugged into a standard wall socket. It must be connected directly to a secure cable outlet, in accordance with standard NFC 15-100.
Before making the connection, it is essential to observe the following instructions:
- Switch off the power at the main circuit breaker
- Use a 3-core cable with the following colour codes:
- Blue (or light grey): Neutral
- Brown (or red): Phase
- Black: Pilot wire (optional, for scheduling via a centralised thermostat)
- Connect via a wall-mounted junction box — never via an electrical socket
- Protect the circuit with a 30mA RCD (residual current device)
- Never connect the pilot wire to earth, and insulate it if not in use
💡 Bestherm's advice: If in any doubt, contact a qualified electrician.
3. Understanding bathroom safety zones
The electrical standard NFC 15-100 defines several safety zones around water points, which determine the types of electrical appliances permitted in each area. These zones are designed to protect users by limiting the risk of contact with water and splashes — particularly in bathrooms:
| Appliance | Protection rating | Zone 0 (IPX7) | Zone 1 (IPX5) | Zone 2 (IPX4) | Outside zones |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric heating | Class I | Prohibited | Prohibited | Prohibited | Permitted |
| Electric heating | Class II | Prohibited | Prohibited | Permitted | Permitted |
Need help installing your Bestherm heated towel rail?
Do you have questions or would you like personalised assistance? Our customer service team is available at: service.clients@hom-y.fr
To ensure a compliant and safe installation, we recommend calling on a qualified professional electrician.
