Water leaking from light fixture.

[AnaMaria#]

Hello,
I have a question. Is it safe to use a light fixture that had water comming through it? There was a water leak comming from a light fixture in my living room around a week ago. The amount of water that came out was about 300-400ml. It wasn't much because i turned off the water in shower room that was in use. I'm almost 100% sure the shower is the cause. Exactly the same thing happened at the end of 2019 (the same light fixture). The same contractor came in, both times, and decided that the sealant was the problem. Both times he turned on the water and no leakage happened so he determined that the problem is fixed (or I had imagined it) - I do have video evidence of the water leaking. Both times he didn't check the lamp condition and told me it's safe to use it when it dries. Is it correct, because I'm a bit concerned it may cause some problems. The first time (in 2019) I started using it after about a week and nothing happened. I'm sorry for such a long post.

 

[Timmy D]

Honestly, it’s likely ok but I can’t give that advise on here. I would pull the light fixture and check the connections etc. As it’s the second time, you don’t know what state what you can’t see could be in.

 

[Chuck]

The right thing to do in these circumstances is to get a qualified electrician to check the wiring before re-energising the affected circuit(s). They'll perform a visual inspection and then the standard electrical safety checks (insulation resistance, etc.) If your circuits are not protected by RCBO's you should discuss having them fitted with the electrician.

 

[Deleted member 120897]

I work in social housing and have seen a fair share of leaks through light fittings, and still do. Our electricians usually inspect the extent of the water, but often results in the fitting being removed and reconnected once it’s dry. If the water has had nowhere to escape after a week, then moisture could form on the conductors and arc. You might be best getting an electrician in as per @Chuck and at the minimum as per @Timmy D - remove the fitting (often threaded type) and visually inspect the amount of water. Sorry the the long reply, just wanted to provide as much information as possible. In answer to the question, it is “safe” to use once it’s been confirmed there’s no water ingress/moisture on the electrics and dry by a competent person.