IP rating, also known as Ingress Protection rating, measures how resistant a device is against the intrusion of solid particles (like dust) and water/moisture.
In the context of LED lighting, checking the IP rating is crucial, as it determines where these lights can be safely installed. For example, a higher IP rating ensures better durability outdoors or in wet environments, while a lower rating might only be suitable for indoor use.
IP Rating Chart
Each IP rating consists of two numbers:
IP XX
The first number indicates protection against dust/solid objects.
The second number indicates protection against water/moisture.
IP Rating Chart
Protection Against Solid Objects (First Characteristic Numeral)
| IP Code | Description |
|---|---|
| IP0X | No protection |
| IP1X | Protected against solid objects over 50mm, e.g. accidental touch by hands |
| IP2X | Protected against solid objects over 12mm, e.g. fingers |
| IP3X | Protected against solid objects over 2.5mm, e.g. tools & wires |
| IP4X | Protected against solid objects over 1mm, e.g. wires, nails etc. |
| IP5X | Protected against dust limited ingress, not harmful deposits |
| IP6X | Totally protected against dust |
Protection Against Water (Second Characteristic Numeral)
| IP Code | Description |
|---|---|
| IPX0 | Non-protected |
| IPX1 | Protected against dripping water |
| IPX2 | Protected against dripping water (tilted up to 15°) |
| IPX3 | Protected against spraying water (up to 60°) |
| IPX4 | Protected against splashing water |
| IPX5 | Protected against low-pressure jets of water from all directions, limited ingress permitted |
| IPX6 | Protected against strong jets of water e.g. on the deck of the ship, limited ingress permitted |
| IPX7 | Protected against the effects of temporary immersion between 15cm and 1m. |
| IPX8 | Protected against long periods of immersion under pressure |
IP Ratings for Waterproof Lighting
When selecting LED lighting, it’s essential to understand the IP rating to ensure it meets the environmental demands. IP65, IP66, and IP67 are commonly regarded as waterproof under specific conditions. Choosing the right IP rating helps determine whether the lighting can withstand rain, water jets, or immersion.
IP65 Rating – Low-Pressure Waterproof Protection
- Protection:
- Complete protection from dust ingress.
- Resistant to low-pressure water jets (6.3mm nozzle) from any direction.
- Usage:
- Suitable for outdoor lighting like floodlights, garden lights, and wall washers.
- Perfect for areas exposed to rain but not direct water jets.
IP66 Rating – High-Pressure Waterproof Protection
- Protection:
- Full protection against dust ingress.
- Resistant to high-pressure water jets (12.5mm nozzle) from any direction.
- Tested with 100 litres per minute of water at 100 kPa from 3 metres for 3 minutes.
- Usage:
- Ideal for outdoor LED lights that may encounter heavy rain, splashing, or washdowns, such as streetlights or car park lights.
- Recommended when lighting needs to endure pressurised water exposure.
IP67 Rating – Temporary Immersion Protection
- Protection:
- Complete protection from dust ingress.
- Resistant to immersion in water up to 1 metre for 30 minutes.
- Usage:
- Best suited for underground or pathway lighting, where water exposure from temporary flooding is possible.
- Ideal for outdoor installations exposed to pools of water but not continuous immersion.
