IP Rating: What Does It Mean and Which One Do You Need for Your Spaces?
Are you in the process of selecting lighting for various spaces in your home or garden? Then understanding the IP rating is essential. IP stands for Ingress Protection or International Protection, and it is a classification system that indicates how well an electrical device or fixture is protected against dust, water, and other external influences. In this SEO text, we will delve deeper into the meaning of the IP rating and provide you with a handy overview per space to help you choose the right IP rating.
What Does IP Rating Mean?
The IP rating consists of two digits, where the first digit indicates the protection against dust and the second digit indicates the protection against water. The higher the numbers, the better the protection.Here is an overview of what each digit means:
-
First Digit (Protection against solids):
- 0: No protection
- 1: Protected against large objects
- 2: Protected against medium-sized objects
- 3: Protected against small objects
- 4: Protected against most dust particles
- 5: Dust-protected (limited ingress of dust permitted)
- 6: Completely dust-tight
-
Second Digit (Protection against water):
- 0: No protection
- 1: Dripping water
- 2: Dripping water when tilted
- 3: Spraying water
- 4: Splashing water
- 5: Water jets
- 6: Powerful water jets
- 7: Temporary immersion
- 8: Continuous immersion
Which IP Rating Do You Need?
To help you choose the right IP rating for different areas, we have compiled a handy table:
| IP Rating | Meaning | Suitable Areas |
|---|---|---|
| IP20 | Protected against touch by fingers and large objects | Dry areas with no specific requirements for water or dust resistance, such as living rooms and bedrooms. |
| IP21 | Protected against dripping water and touch by fingers | Indoor areas with minimal exposure to moisture, such as corridors and hallways. |
| IP23 | Protected against spraying water and touch by fingers | Covered outdoor areas with limited exposure to weather conditions, such as covered patios. |
| IP44 | Protected against splashing water and touch by small objects | Bathrooms, canopies, balconies, gardens, or indoor areas with an increased risk of humidity. |
| IP54 | Protected against splashing water, dust, and touch by fingers | Covered outdoor areas with moderate exposure to weather conditions, such as patios. |
| IP65 | Protected against water jets and dust | Outdoor areas with direct exposure to water jets or severe weather conditions, such as gardens, driveways, or car washes. |
| IP66 | Protected against powerful water jets and dust | Demanding outdoor environments where lighting requires heavy weather and water resistance, such as in industrial or maritime settings. |
| IP68 | Continuous immersion in water and dust | Underwater lighting, ponds, fountains, and other applications where continuous immersion occurs. |
Which IP Rating in a Bathroom?
In the bathroom, IP44 is the most common IP rating.
This value indicates that the fixture is protected against splashing water and small objects. This is essential in a humid environment such as the bathroom to ensure safety and extend the lifespan of your lighting.
Which IP Rating in a Garden?
Different IP ratings are required for various garden lighting applications:
- Outdoor wall lights:
IP44 is suitable, as they are exposed to splashes and moisture, but not directly to water jets.
View all outdoor wall lights - Ground spots:
IP65 is necessary, as they are in direct contact with the ground and require more protection against water.
View all Ground Spotlights -
LED Standing Outdoor Lights:
IP44 is sufficient for posts that do not come into direct contact with water jets. Rain is not a problem, see the image below.
View Standing Outdoor Lights - Underwater Lights: If your lights will be fully submerged, IP68 is required to ensure they are protected against prolonged immersion in water.
By choosing the correct IP rating for your lighting, you ensure safety, durability, and efficiency in your home and garden. When purchasing fixtures, make sure to check the IP rating and match it to the specific requirements of the space where they will be installed.
More information about IP ratings or looking for an LED lamp?
Would you like more information about which IP rating is suitable for your space? Feel free to contact our lighting experts without obligation, and they will be happy to help you choose the right LED lamps.
