So, how do we assess what lighting is for indoors and what can go out doors?
Well, we look at the IP rating.
It stands for Ingress Protection – and it’s a rating that classifies light fittings (and lots of other things) for their suitability for use in different locations based on how or if water and/or dust can get into the fitting where the electricity is.
The Ingress Protection or IP rating is an important consideration during the selection of LED lighting products for any project. The IP rating reflects the suitability of the light fitting to specific environmental conditions in indoor and outdoor installations.
The first digit of an IP rating refers to the level of protection against solids, including dust particles, mosquitoes, moths, or flies. The second digit indicates the protection level against liquid with the number also providing guidance when it comes to on-site cleaning routines using sprays or water jets.
While dust resistance levels progress from 0 to 6, the water resistance rating is provided in a 0 to 9 range.
IP ratings in interior lighting
Most indoor lighting products are not designed for water exposure as risk from water damage is low compared to outdoor lighting. While dust or insects are not likely to damage the lights, a dust cover will impact the quality of light being emitted.
IP ratings for indoor lights:
An IP20 rating makes the LED light suitable for all indoor dry applications, such as offices, retail shops, bedrooms and living rooms.
An IP40 rating will prevent insects from getting into the lights, but there is no protection from moisture.
IP42 rated LED lights are protected from tools and small wires greater than 1 millimetre. The lights can resist a few drops of water.
IP44 rated lights are suitable for bathrooms and applications exposed to water spray.
IP ratings for outdoor lights:
IP54 lights offer protection against dust and splash, making them suitable for general outdoor use or damp indoor environments.
IP64 products are fully protected against dust ingress as well as water splashes from any direction.
An IP65 rating makes the product completely dust-tight with protection against low-pressure water jets from any direction.
IP66 means the product is completely dust-tight as well as protected against high pressure water jets from any direction.
An IP67 rated light is completely protected against solid particles and can be submerged up to 1m in water for up to 30 minutes.
An IP68 fitting is hermetically sealed and suitable for continuous immersion in water.
If you’re in any doubt as to what IP rating you need for the specific use you have in mind, then please don’t hesitate to contact an expert for further advice and assistance when planning your purchase.
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