What does IP rating mean in lighting and how important is it? An IP rating is shorthand for an Ingress Protection mark. The IP (Ingress Protection) rating of a bulb or light fixture declares the level of protection it has against dirt and water.
Any fixture that is used in a bathroom, garden or wet environment should have an IP rating that is sufficient enough to stop the ingress of dust and water.
An IP rating consists of two digits. The first digit represents protection against the ingress of solid objects i.e. dust. The second digit represents protection against the ingress of liquids i.e. water. The higher the value of either digit, the greater the protection.
So, what protection do you need?
Higher IP Ratings
Higher IP rated light fixtures are more suited to areas that will be exposed to harsh weather conditions. If there is a chance of contact with dust or liquids, selecting a fitting with a high IP rating will give the most protection.
Light fixtures that are rated IP65 and above are considered to be waterproof and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
IP65 and IP66 are common IP ratings that offer more protection. IP65 lights can withstand water projected directly onto the fixture but are not completely waterproof and should not be submerged in water. IP66 lights can withstand water being sprayed forcefully from any direction but should not be submerged in water either.
These following spaces require lights that are rated IP65 and above:
- Outdoor locations
- Locations with exposure to dust, dirt and debris
- Wet spaces with a high chance of coming in contact with water
- Inside showers, pools, wet rooms or bathtubs
Lower IP Rating
Lower IP ratings – such as those below IP44 – are mostly suited for indoor use in spaces that have virtually no exposure to dust or water, like your living room or bedroom. Most light fixtures inside your home will be rated IP20 and that is sufficient for most indoor purposes.
Ratings between IP44 and IP65 are acceptable for both indoor and general outdoor use, provided they are installed in a sheltered location and are protected from the harshest weather conditions.
| IP | Protection against penetration of solid foreign objects | Protection against penetration of moisture |
| 0 | No protection | No protection |
| 1 | Objects of φ > 50mm | Vertical dripping water |
| 2 | Objects of φ > 12.5mm | Dripping water tilted up to 15° |
| 3 | Objects of φ > 2.5mm | Dripping water tilted up to 60° |
| 4 | Objects of φ > 1mm | Splashing water in all directions |
| 5 | Dust can enter in a harmless quantity | Waterjets in all directions |
| 6 | No entry of dust | Stronger waterjets in all directions |
| 7 | – | Temporary immersion |
| 8 | – | Constant immersion under manufacturer’s condition |