What is IP rating in lighting?

Moisture, dust, and debris can easily damage lighting fixtures if they are not adequately protected. Without the right protection level, electrical components can fail, leading to costly repairs or even hazardous situations. Choosing a light with the appropriate IP rating ensures longevity, performance, and safety in different environments.

IP rating (Ingress Protection) in lighting defines the level of protection against solid particles and liquids. The IP rating consists of two numbers: the first digit represents protection against solids (like dust), while the second digit indicates resistance to water. For example, an IP65-rated fixture is fully dustproof and protected against water jets, making it suitable for outdoor use. Understanding IP ratings helps ensure the correct lighting is selected for indoor, outdoor, and wet environments.

Now, let’s dive deeper into understanding IP ratings and their applications.

What Does IP Mean for Lighting?

IP (Ingress Protection) rating is an international standard that classifies the degree of protection provided by lighting enclosures against dust and water. The rating consists of two digits:
– First digit (0-6): Protection against solid objects (e.g., dust, dirt).
– Second digit (0-9): Protection against liquids (e.g., water, rain).

For example, in IP65:
– The “6” means the fixture is completely dust-tight.
– The “5” means it is protected against low-pressure water jets.

IP Rating Chart

Understanding these numbers helps determine the suitability of lighting for different applications.

Lighting IP Rating Chart

Understanding IP ratings is essential when selecting lighting fixtures for various environments. The table below provides a detailed breakdown of Ingress Protection (IP) ratings, explaining the level of protection against solid objects (first digit) and liquids (second digit).

How to Read an IP Rating?

• First Digit (0-6): Indicates protection against solid objects like dust and debris.
• Second Digit (0-9): Defines protection against liquids like rain, splashes, and submersion.

For example:
– IP65 = Completely dustproof + Protected against low-pressure water jets.
– IP67 = Completely dustproof + Submersible in water up to 1 meter.

Choosing the Right IP Rating for Your Lighting

• Indoor dry areas: IP20 – IP44
• Bathrooms & kitchens: IP44 – IP65
• Outdoor lighting (street & floodlights): IP65 – IP67
• Underwater & extreme environments: IP68 – IP69K

Selecting the correct IP rating ensures longer lifespan, safety, and reliable performance in various conditions.

How LED Lighting IP is Tested?

Ingress Protection (IP rating) testing is a crucial process to verify the dust and water resistance of LED lighting fixtures. These tests follow international standards set by IEC 60529 to classify a fixture’s ability to withstand solid and liquid intrusion.

IP Testing for Solid Protection (First Digit)

The first digit in an IP rating (0-6) determines the level of protection against solid objects and dust. The testing process includes:

1. IP1X (50mm object protection) – A test probe of 50mm diameter is applied to ensure it does not fully enter the lighting fixture.
2. IP2X (12.5mm object protection) – A 12.5mm probe is used to test resistance against fingers or similar-sized objects.
3. IP3X (2.5mm object protection) – A 2.5mm probe ensures small tools or wires cannot penetrate.
4. IP4X (1mm object protection) – A 1mm probe checks resistance to small solid particles.
5. IP5X (Dust-protected) – The fixture is placed inside a dust chamber for 8 hours, with vacuum pressure applied. Minimal dust ingress is acceptable.
6. IP6X (Dust-tight) – The fixture undergoes a complete dust-sealing test under strong vacuum pressure to ensure no dust enters.

IP6X Test

IP Testing for Water Protection (Second Digit)

The second digit (0-9) indicates the level of protection against water exposure. Testing involves:

1. IPX1 (Dripping Water Test – 1mm per minute for 10 minutes)

– Water drips vertically onto the fixture at a rate of 1mm/minute.

1. IPX2 (Dripping Water at 15° tilt for 10 minutes)

– The fixture is tilted 15° while subjected to dripping water.

1. IPX3 (Spraying Water Test – Up to 60° Angle for 5 minutes)

– Water is sprayed at an upward angle (60° max) to check resistance.

1. IPX4 (Splashing Water Test – Any Direction for 10 minutes)

– Water splashes against the fixture from all directions.

1. IPX5 (Water Jet Test – 12.5L/min for 3 minutes)

– Low-pressure jets are sprayed using a 6.3mm nozzle from 3 meters away.

1. IPX6 (Powerful Water Jet Test – 100L/min for 3 minutes)

– High-pressure jets (12.5mm nozzle) spray from any direction.

1. IPX7 (Immersion Test – 30 minutes in 1m deep water)

– The fixture is submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.

1. IPX8 (Continuous Submersion Test – Specified Depth & Time)

– The fixture undergoes a custom-depth submersion test (e.g., over 1m for hours).

1. IPX9K (High-Pressure & High-Temperature Water Test)

– The fixture is exposed to high-pressure steam jets (80°C) for cleaning applications (e.g., food processing plants).

IPX6 Test

Why IP Testing is Important for LED Lighting?

• Ensures safety and longevity in harsh environments.
• Verifies compliance with industry standards (IEC 60529).
• Confirms resistance to dust, moisture, rain, and immersion.

How to Choose LED Lights with the Right IP Ratings for Your Project?

Selecting LED lights with the right IP rating is essential to ensure durability, safety, and performance in different environments. The Ingress Protection (IP) rating determines how well a fixture is protected from dust and water, making it a crucial factor when choosing lighting for indoor, outdoor, and industrial applications.

1. Understand the IP Rating System

An IP rating consists of two digits:
– First digit (0-6): Protection against solid objects and dust.
– Second digit (0-9): Protection against water and moisture.

For example, IP65 means the light is dust-tight (6) and protected against low-pressure water jets (5).

2. Determine the Environmental Conditions

Different locations require different IP ratings based on exposure to dust, moisture, and water.

Indoor Applications

Outdoor & Harsh Environments

3. Match the IP Rating to Your Project Needs

• For general indoor use: IP20 – IP40 is sufficient.
• For wet areas (bathrooms, kitchens): Choose IP44 – IP65.
• For outdoor lighting: A minimum of IP65 is recommended.
• For industrial & extreme conditions: IP66 – IP69K ensures high durability.

4. Consider Long-Term Maintenance

Higher IP ratings often mean better durability and less maintenance. However, excessive protection may increase costs unnecessarily. Choose the optimal IP rating based on real environmental conditions.

5. Compliance with Industry Standards

Always check if the LED lights meet IEC 60529 IP rating standards to ensure quality and reliability.

What IP Rating is Good for Indoor Use?

For indoor lighting, IP ratings depend on the environment:
– IP20: Common for dry indoor areas such as living rooms, offices, and retail stores.
– IP44: Suitable for kitchens and bathrooms where occasional splashes of water may occur.
– IP54: Recommended for areas with higher humidity, like kitchen or bathroom.

While most indoor applications don’t require high IP ratings, moisture-prone areas should have at least IP44 to prevent damage.

What is the IP65 Rating of a Light?

IP65 is a popular rating for both indoor and outdoor lighting. It means:
– 6 (dust-tight): No dust particles can penetrate the fixture.
– 5 (water-resistant): Can withstand water jets from any direction.

IP65-rated lights are commonly used in street lighting, outdoor floodlights, and industrial environments where exposure to dust and rain is frequent.

What IP Rating is Fully Waterproof?

For fully waterproof lighting, IP67 and IP68 ratings are preferred:
– IP67: Can withstand temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes).
– IP68: Can be submerged in deeper water for extended periods.

These ratings are ideal for underwater lights, pool lights, and outdoor applications exposed to heavy rain or flooding.

What is the IP Rating of LED Panels?

LED panel lights used indoors typically have:
– IP20-IP40: Suitable for dry, dust-free areas like offices, homes, and retail spaces.
– IP54: Offers protection against dust and moisture, making it ideal for high-humidity areas.

For outdoor or wet locations, IP65-rated LED panels are recommended to prevent water damage.

Do All Lights Have an IP Rating?

Not all lights have an IP rating displayed, but every fixture inherently has a protection level. Indoor lights designed for dry areas may not specify an IP rating because they are not intended for moisture or dust exposure. However, outdoor and industrial lights must have an IP rating to indicate their level of protection.

What is the Highest IP Rating for Lights?

The highest IP rating commonly used for lighting is IP69K, which provides:
– Complete dust protection (IP6X).
– Protection against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets (IPX9K).

IP69K-rated lights are used in food processing plants, car washes, and extreme industrial environments where high-pressure cleaning is required.

Do I Need IP Rated Lights in the Bathroom?

Yes, bathrooms have high humidity levels and require IP-rated lighting:
– IP44: Suitable for areas near sinks and mirrors where splashes occur.
– IP65: Recommended for shower enclosures where direct water exposure happens.

Using the correct IP rating ensures safety and extends the lifespan of bathroom lights.

Can I Put LED Lights in the Bathroom?

Yes, LED lights can be used in bathrooms, but the IP rating must be appropriate for the specific zone:
– IP20: Safe for dry ceiling areas.
– IP44: Best for vanity and mirror lights.
– IP65: Required for shower areas.

Ensuring the right IP rating for bathroom lighting helps prevent electrical hazards in wet conditions.

Conclusion

IP ratings play a crucial role in ensuring lighting fixtures are protected from dust, moisture, and water exposure. Selecting the right IP rating based on the environment—whether it’s indoor, outdoor, or wet areas—ensures longevity, safety, and reliability.

If you need help choosing the best IP-rated lighting for your application, feel free to contact us. Our experts are ready to assist you in finding the ideal lighting solutions!