Somehow it is no longer possible to imagine a modern bathroom without mirrors. This is an urgent need, an element of decor, and functionality. But a mirror without backlight loses its many advantages. We will talk about which mirrors are suitable for the bathroom and how to properly organize the lighting of the mirrors so that it is both convenient and beautiful.
Types of bathroom mirrors
- built into cabinets, great for small spaces;
- free-standing, i.e. without unnecessary details, placed directly on the floor (can be at full height), attached to the wall, will not interfere with a large enough bathroom;
- cosmetic, small in size, most often mounted on a bracket to the wall, used specifically for cosmetic purposes; can be installed both in a small bathroom and additionally in a large room; usually they are rotating and movable;
- decorative, placed at will in different parts of the bathroom, serve not so much for their intended purpose, but create aesthetic pleasure, visually expand the space, etc.
In addition to the fact that mirrors come in a wide variety of shapes - round, square, oval, figured - the decorative finish can also be different.
Designers offer:
- clean, without any decorative trim;
- with applied patterns using matting or sandblasting technology;
- artificially aged;
- colored;
- tinted;
- so-called faceted, a special type of mirrors that are mounted on the wall as tiles, or some elements among ceramics; These models are thicker.
Work order
Proper planning of work helps to complete installation quickly and correctly. It includes the preparatory stage, installation itself and quality control.
List of necessary tools and materials
The wiring diagram will help you prepare all the materials. It is used to calculate how many and what kind of sockets, switches, lamps, RCDs, and circuit breakers will be needed. Lamps and sockets are waterproof, IP44 and more. It is better to choose spotlights that operate on 12 V.
They measure the length of sections of the electrical circuit and buy wiring. Its cross section depends on which consumer is powered. The cable is only three-core with waterproof insulation, preferably copper. Corrugations and sleeves are purchased if necessary. To equalize the potentials, you will need a copper wire and lugs for connection.
To mark the wiring installation locations, you will need a 5 m long tape measure and a level. Grooves in the plaster are made with a wall chaser; you can use a grinder, a hammer drill, a hammer, or a chisel.
To install sockets, use a drill with a crown. For installation you will need a knife, pliers, screwdrivers, and electrical tape.
Removing old wiring
If the apartment has old wiring, it is removed to avoid frequent knocking out of machines, overheating and fires. Two-core aluminum is not suitable.
If 20 or more years have passed since the installation, it is difficult for it to power modern devices: the cross-section is insufficient, the twist is weakened.
Cabling
Using the diagram, strictly horizontal and vertical lines are drawn on the walls, indicating the wiring route. If there are voids between the panels and the wall or suspended ceiling, the cable is inserted through the holes, placed in a corrugation, or dispensed with without it. If the gap is small or there are no panels, the walls are chipped.
The cavities are cut in width and depth sufficient to accommodate the wiring. If you plan to use corrugation, take its dimensions into account. The distance between each groove is at least 10 cm.
Wiring is started from external distribution devices to devices. Each line consists of a single piece with continuous insulation.
Splicing and junction boxes are not permitted. They try to avoid laying the cable along the wall in zone No. 1. In the grooves, the wiring is secured with dowels with clamps every 50 cm or with cement or gypsum mortar every 20-30 cm. At the points of output to the consumer, a free end 15 cm long is left.
Installation of sockets, switches and lamps
Recesses are made for sockets and switches using a drill with a crown. Socket boxes are installed in the holes and fixed with plaster mortar. After 5-10 minutes, the ends of the conductors, cleared of insulation, are inserted. Install the cores of sockets and switches. Lamps are most often mounted on dowels.
Wires are connected to the contacts. They are different colors:
- phase brown or red;
- zero blue;
- grounding yellow-green.
A phase is supplied to the switches for opening. Sockets and lamps have a phase terminal on the right, a neutral terminal on the left, and a ground terminal in the middle.
Bathroom lighting rules
The day begins and ends with a bath. Everything that is there should be as comfortable and convenient as possible for morning and evening exercise. Lighting intensity is measured in lux. The most optimal amount for a bathroom is 200 lux.
When using different types of lamps, the power of each of them should be taken into account:
- incandescent lamp – 10-30 W per m²;
- halogen lamps – 23-27 W per m²;
- fluorescent lamps – 6-8 W per m².
Moreover, start from the first number if the bath is decorated in light colors, and from the last number if it is decorated in dark colors.
Another important characteristic of lamps is the type of glow:
- warm light – 2700 K;
- natural, daytime, neutral – 4200 K;
- cold – 6500 K.
Lamp power
The main criterion for choosing a lamp for any purpose is the strength of the generated luminous flux. In other words, brightness, which directly depends on the power of the lamps. But when choosing a device for a mirror according to this parameter, you need to focus not on the area of the bathroom and the desired illumination, as is often done, but on the size of the mirror and the average distance to the face. What difference does it make how much free space is available behind you if a specific object is illuminated from a certain distance?
Optimally, the light flux falling on the face from an artificial source should be the same as from the sun on a clear day. As practice shows, for a medium-sized mirror you need illuminators with incandescent lamps with a total power of 60–100 W. If fluorescent light bulbs are used as a light source, then this power is divided by 4–5, and for LED lamps generally 8–15 W is enough.
Safety precautions
The mirror is located in a room with high humidity, installed above a bathtub, sink, or in maximum proximity to water. Compliance with safety rules during installation is required:
- electrical wiring is thoroughly insulated;
- the junction box should be located outside the bathroom;
- use of moisture-proof terminal blocks;
- grounding installation;
- the LED strip is also carefully insulated, and it can only be cut in places marked by the manufacturer;
- if necessary, use additional rubber seals on the lampshades;
- be sure to pay attention to the IP protection index, the first digit indicating the level of protection from moisture should be at least 44, and preferably 55;
- because lighting in the bathroom most often has several scenarios, then the general power supply circuit is divided into several parts, and each is isolated separately;
- a low-current power supply system is used.
Choosing a location for installation
In relation to the mirror, the position of the lighting can be arranged in a wide variety of ways. In general, lighting equipment is divided into two large categories: external internal lighting. Exterior lighting means that the lighting fixtures are installed outside the mirror cabinet or mounting structure. The built-in lighting is an integral part of the mirror itself; for factory versions of such lighting equipment, niches are provided at the design stage, otherwise you may need to make them yourself.
At the location relative to the mirror, the following installation options are distinguished:
With this arrangement, the lower part remains uncovered.
It is not recommended to install LED lamps from below, since the backlight in this case will blind your eyes when you are in front of the mirror. Additionally, lower lighting creates shadows that impair perception.
Important Details
To successfully illuminate bathroom mirrors, follow these tips:
- install a lamp above the mirror that will not hit your eyes;
- to avoid shadows on the face, it is better to install lighting on the sides of the mirror;
- when choosing sconces, choose shades made of frosted glass or plastic;
- For a large mirror there are never too many lamps, install several at once.
FAQ
The LED mirror started to turn off a few months after purchase. It takes about 10-15 minutes, after which the lamp turns off by itself. When pressed again it turns off. What is the reason and how to fix it?
Most likely, the driver - the power supply - began to break down. It needs to be replaced. In terms of power, take a reserve of 20% or more, so that the total consumption of all LEDs in Watts is + 20%. When installing a mirror, you need to take into account that this driver must be ventilated, otherwise it will overheat and stop working.
I don’t want to cut the tiles and run a cable channel to the backlight. In this regard, the question is: is it possible to connect the standard mirror lighting not to 220 volts, but through a 12 volt battery or accumulator?
You can cut a niche behind the mirror, put a battery in it and the smallest 12-220 inverter will fit there. This is without disassembling the mirror and without delving into the diagram. But you will have to turn it on only when necessary, in order to save money. Otherwise, a very large niche is needed. In this case, it is more advisable to choose a battery-powered backlit mirror model.
Which lighting arrangement in the mirror should I choose to make it convenient to apply makeup?
It is more correct when the lamps are built into the mirror on the sides: the face will be illuminated evenly. If the light is from above, there will be shadows from the nose.
The LED light in the mirror does not shine, but blinks. What is the reason?
The reason for the flickering of the LED backlight when turned on is low voltage in the electrical network. In some urban areas and rural areas, the voltage in sockets does not exceed 200 V. In such areas, only LED lamps with a high-quality built-in driver can work stably and effectively shine. To solve the problem, it is worth installing a driver with a power reserve of + 30%.
Is it necessary to ground a backlit mirror?
If the mirror has a double insulation symbol - a square within a square symbol - then grounding is not required.
Ideas for lighting a bathroom mirror
- Hidden backlight
The difference between such lighting is that lamps are not installed separately next to the mirror. They seem to be built into the mirror canvas itself. In this case, some part is not treated with a reflective compound, and lamps or LED strip are placed behind the mirror. Thanks to this method, you can create unique options: a circle of light inside a square mirror, highlight the entire perimeter, create unusual shapes on the mirror. See examples in the photo.
- Side lights
One of the most common ways to illuminate a mirror. Wall sconces of the same design are selected. You can also use multi-lamp spots, which are installed on one platform or on a rod vertically along the mirror. The advantage of such lighting is that manufacturers offer lamps in a wide variety of styles. For example, if the bathtub is decorated in a classic style, then you can choose a sconce with two shades in the shape of a bell, a candle, or a lampshade. For minimalism, we select appropriate lamps in a very laconic design: strict, square or elongated, without any additional decor.
- Stylish and unusual options
To enhance the aesthetic impression, try turning on your imagination. With the help of lighting you can create a truly unique mirror picture. One such solution could be a flower-shaped lighting fixture built directly into the mirror.
Another idea: the mirror is framed in a glass frame, and the frame itself is illuminated with an LED strip. An airy effect is created. Moreover, you can choose the color of the lighting in accordance with your tastes and the overall interior of the bathroom.
A truly fantastic picture can be created using hidden lighting and a round mirror. It feels like the moon dominates the bathroom, or there is an eclipse of the sun.
- Dual Direction
Very unusual lighting, made using side lamps, in which the light is directed both up and down. Visually increases the height of the ceilings, provides uniform light and looks very original.
- Pendant lamps
It is quite possible to use pendant lamps as lighting. Original lighting fixtures hanging from the ceiling will look very unusual in the bathroom; the main thing is to take into account all the safety rules for using such lamps in the bathroom. Models include elongated flasks, luminous stars, glass balls and much more. Lamps can be placed on the sides of the mirror, in front of the mirror, along the wall where the mirror is located. There are many options, choose what you like.
- Light bulbs around the perimeter
Light bulbs around the perimeter of the entire mirror, built directly into the surface, look modern, stylish and impressive. This design is well suited to an interior in the style of hi-tech, modern, minimalism. It creates a feeling of something cosmic, almost reminiscent of a flying spaceship. Moreover, this solution provides a lot of light.
- Unusual shape of lamps
To create not only additional lighting, but also to add decorativeness, aesthetics, and effectiveness, choose lamps of an original design. Get acquainted with a photo selection of unusual models.
Lamps in the form of glowing pears. Hanging over the dressing table like the fruits of a fairy tree. Provides very bright illumination thanks to cool white light.
Pendant lamps made in the shape of street lamps. General lighting is complemented by a star-shaped lamp. Agree that it looks very impressive.
- Crystal in the bathroom
Sounds a little unusual. But this is quite possible. The luxury of classics is created not only in the living room. All the pompousness of the style will be supported by the illumination of the mirrors, especially if the bathroom area is large enough.
Metal gilded hemispheres filled with crystal balls and droplets give a scattering sparkle. Classic crystal chandeliers in miniature in the bathroom? Why not. An excellent solution will add luxury.
- Retro design
Retro always sets any interior apart. A touch of antiquity, the antiquity of objects speaks of high cost, taste and prosperity. The mirror is framed in an antique style, reminiscent of a painting in an art museum, which deserves special lighting. Elegant retro-style lamps with a copper base and matching lampshade holders in the shape of a blooming flower are the perfect complement to a mirror picture.
Another retro style option. The mirror itself is practically a work of art, as if it came to us from an ancient castle. Simple-shaped lamps only emphasize the elegance of the mirror. All other fittings are also made in an antique version: a towel holder in the form of a ring, a retro faucet. Everything is in white, which makes the items stand out against the deep brown background.
- Simplicity and conciseness
Not everyone wants to create a palace effect in their bathroom. Lovers of minimalism have their own design moves. For example, parallel light stripes along the top and bottom of the mirror.
Or illumination using ordinary, simple-design spotlights. You can use built-in spots with a rotating mechanism.
- Top lighting
Installation of overhead lighting is carried out using wall lamps in a variety of configurations. This can be a fluorescent lamp, narrow and long, across the entire width of the mirror. An unusual design in the form of a tiara for a mirror with Swarovski crystals does an excellent job of both lighting and aesthetic functions. Multi-lamp spots on a rod are an excellent solution for modern design. Choose spots with rotating mechanisms.
And other ideas...
The modern market even offers lighting systems such as light panels. They can be part of the mirror or located next to it, behind it, to imitate a window overlooking the sea, an aquarium, or simply water ripples, a starry sky, soap bubbles or stained glass.
If the mirror has a shelf, then you can place luminous figures in the form of shells and angels on it, which may be appreciated by creative people.
You can build flexible lighting not only using an LED strip, but also using a luminous garland that meets all the requirements for wet rooms. This can be an imitation of plant motifs, insects and other design ideas.
There are even luminous curtains for the bathroom, which, when located next to the mirror, can act as a backlight. For a marine style, it will not be difficult to choose lampshades that imitate portholes.
Despite the huge range of accessories and electrical goods for bathrooms, the choice of mirror lighting needs to be considered carefully, taking into account the style of the room, the safety of the design, its environmental friendliness, ease of care and affordability. Then the bathroom will become not only a place for hygiene procedures, but also an area of emotional release.
What else needs to be taken into account
Whatever types of lamps we choose, their main function is to illuminate the face well. To ensure high-quality lighting, consider the following:
- the light above the mirror will not allow you to see your face in great detail;
- a lamp installed under the mirror will cast unnecessary shadows on the face;
- installing a lamp on only one side of the mirror will create a feeling of blurred facial contours;
- side lamps must be installed at a height of 1.5 meters from the floor;
- mirrors built into cabinets usually do not require additional lighting, because... equipped with built-in soffits;
- The white color and frosted glass of the lampshades will create a soft, diffused light that does not hit the eyes.
If your bathroom has a large mirror, then consider several lighting scenarios. This will give a lot of light and space to the private room.
Markup rules
In order to securely fasten the canvas to the wall, you must first apply auxiliary markings:
When taking measurements, it is necessary to take into account all previous measurements and the height above the washbasin.
What distance should be between the sink and the mirror?
The height of the lower edge of the mirror from the washbasin should be 30-40 cm. This distance is enough to prevent splashes of water from flying onto the reflective surface.
