What IP rating for outdoor lights is recommended for optimum use? Find out right here at Vision Lighting!
We are extremely proud to boast a wide range of LED products and outdoor lighting arrangements here, meaning we’re fully familiar with IP ratings and how important they are. We’re also aware of just how popular outdoor lighting has become over recent years, primarily due to the cost-effectiveness and durability of LED lighting technology.
LED wall lights and LED floodlights are just a couple of lighting solutions you can adopt in your outdoor space that are relatively simple to install, energy efficient, and suitable for both residential and commercial applications.
Keep reading to find out what an IP rating is, the minimum IP rating for outdoor use, and the best IP rating for outdoor lights.
What is an IP rating?
An IP (Ingress Protection) rating essentially tells you how well your lights are protected from water and debris. This is, of course, extremely important for outdoor lighting – especially in the UK where the weather is often less than desirable! You will need to select the correct IP rating for your outdoor lighting installation needs.
The IP rating contains two numbers, which indicate how effective the protective layer is. This can be around the wiring, LED Light strips, or other bits of hardware needed to run the lights.
The first digit (0 to 6) represents the protection level against dust and debris. The second digit (0 to 9) represents the level of protection against water and other liquids. For outdoor lighting applications, a rating of IP65 or higher is recommended for durability in various weather conditions.
IP rating numbers and what they mean
Dust and debris protection
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IP
rating
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Level of protection provided
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1
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Protects against objects greater than 50mm but it does not provide protection from applied force.
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2
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Protects against objects greater than 12.5mm. For example, it protects against accidental touch from hands and fingers.
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3
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Protects against objects greater than 2.5mm and is commonly used for tools and some cables.
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4
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Protects against objects greater than 1mm, such as insects and visible debris. This is often used for screws and wiring.
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5
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Lights are partly protected against small dust particles and other foreign objects. May not be as protective against large quantities of dust and debris.
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6
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This level of protection covers large quantities of dust and other particles. A vacuum within the protective coating is employed, which blocks access to any particles. Products with this rating are referred to as ‘dust tight’.
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Water protection
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IP
rating
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Level of protection provided
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1
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Limited protection is offered here. You are safeguarded from vertically falling droplets caused by things like condensation.
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2
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This provides protection against dripping water when tilted (usually 15 degrees).
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3
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Protects from spraying water up to 60 degrees from vertical.
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4
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This level of protection is splashproof from any angle.
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5
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More protection is offered by low-pressure water jets.
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6
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Protection against higher-pressure water jets.
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7
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Waterproof when temporarily submerged in water, up to 1 metre for up to 30 minutes.
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8
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Completely waterproof and protected against long, durable periods of immersion more than 1 metre deep.
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Common IP ratings for outdoor lights
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IP44
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Protects against small solid objects (like dust and debris) and splashes of water. This IP rating is suitable for outdoor areas that have some cover or are less exposed to weather conditions.
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IP65
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This IP rating is dust-tight and resistant to low-pressure water jets. Therefore, this is ideal for small garden lights or wall mounted lights.
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IP66
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This rating is similar to the above rating of IP65, but it has higher waterproof qualities. This is more suited to exposed outdoor areas that are prone to getting wet.
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IP67
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With such high waterproof protection, lights with IP rating IP67 can withstand temporary immersion in water. This is good for driveways, deck lights, or other areas prone to puddling.
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IP68
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This IP rating is fully dust-tight and can be submerged in water. This makes lights with this IP rating ideal for ponds and other underwater applications.
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What IP rating for outdoor lights is recommended?
Let’s take a look at the recommended IP rating for outdoor lights:
Minimum IP rating for outdoor use
A minimum IP rating of IP55 is advised to be completely dust-tight and waterproof when exposed to rainfall. This IP rating for outdoor use is especially recommended if your outdoor area doesn’t have any cover or is regularly exposed to the elements.
Best IP rating for outdoor lights
The best IP rating for outdoor lights primarily depends on where they are located, what they are used for, and how much they will be exposed to. There is no ‘best’ IP rating in terms of one that is better than all others, it just depends on what you need the lights for in the first place.
Different IP ratings for different outdoor lights
Floodlights and security lights
LED floodlights are used to illuminate large outdoor spaces such as pub gardens, restaurant outdoor eating areas, hotel foyers, and more. An IP rating of IP44 or more is generally considered sufficient for floodlights, but you may need a higher rating if they are likely to be exposed to harsh weather conditions often. All of our products, including our 30W LED floodlights, have an IP rating of at least 65 to ensure they meet the necessary security criteria and will not be harmed by any intrusive components.
Some of our other floodlight products, such as our 50W LED floodlights and 100W LED floodlights, can have an IP rating of IP66 and higher.
Outdoor sign lights
Outdoor sign lights allow you to illuminate your signs so that people instantly recognise your business, brand, or organisation. For an outdoor sign light, the ideal IP rating depends on its exposure to weather conditions. A minimum of IP65 is best for most outdoor sign lights as it’s dust-tight and resistant to low-pressure water jets. Use IP66 or higher if your area is exposed to strong winds and heavy rain, as it resists high-pressure water jets. If you are in a high flood risk area, then a higher rating of IP67 or IP68 may be required.
Wall lights
LED wall lights boast a lot of style and are extremely energy efficient. They can satisfy a wide range of applications too, from setting an ambient atmosphere in your garden to illuminating driveways and footpaths. IP44 is suitable for covered areas, like porches or patios, where the light is protected from direct rain. In comparison, you should use IP66 for highly exposed walls in areas with heavy rain or strong winds.
String lights and hanging lights
Decorative string lights are usually not exposed to harsh weather conditions, but they still need to withstand rainfall and splashes. Go for an IP rating of IP44 or above and you should be fine. Hanging lights, like lanterns, typically come with their own enclosures. In this case, an IP rating of at IP20 could suffice, providing protection against solid objects greater than 12.5mm and dripping water when tilted up to 15 degrees.
Underwater lights
Underwater lights can make a pond or water feature look spectacular at night time. It can add an enchanting element to the end of your BBQ nights, or add a professional and inviting touch to your commercial gardens. These require a much larger IP rating due to the constant exposure to water. Therefore, we recommend using an IP rating of 68, which will offer complete protection against dust and long periods of water immersion.
Take care of all of your outdoor lighting needs with help from Vision Lighting…
Here at Vision Lighting, we’re experts in all things outdoor lighting. We have a range of products available to turn your exterior lighting dreams into a reality. This includes a wide selection of bulbs, brackets, and bars to help install and secure your choice of lights.
Browse our LED lighting products and services today, or get in touch with our expert team for more information. Our team based in Leeds is more than happy to help wherever you are based in the UK.
You can also get in touch by emailing us at info@vision-lighting.co.uk or calling +44 (0) 1132 799 745.