Have you ever come across a term called “IP protection rating” when buying a light? This term may seem a bit complicated at first, but in fact, knowing it is very important to choose the right light, especially in places such as bathrooms, kitchens, swimming pools and outdoors. In this article from EDC, we will tell you, in simple language and with practical examples, what IP protection rating is and how you can choose the right light according to it.

What is the IP protection rating or standard?

IP stands for International Protection and means international protection. This standard specifies the level of protection of an electrical product against the ingress of solid objects (such as dust) and liquids (such as water). In simpler terms, the IP rating indicates how resistant a product is to external factors.

IP applications in the world of lighting

IP rating is very important in the lighting industry, especially for lights that are used in humid, dusty or impact-prone environments. For example:

Pool lights: These lights usually have an IP68 protection rating, which means they are completely dust-proof and can even be completely submerged in water.
Bathroom and toilet lights: These lights also require a high degree of protection due to the presence of moisture. Usually, lights with an IP44 or higher protection rating are used for bathroom or toilet lighting.
Facade lights: These lights are exposed to various weather conditions and therefore require a high degree of protection against dust, moisture and impact. These lights are used for building facade lighting.
Dust and moisture-proof lights: These lights are very suitable for use in industrial and workshop environments where there is a lot of dust and moisture.

Buried lights: These types of lights are used to illuminate gardens, paths, entrances, and the entire outdoor space. Their protection level is usually IP67 or IP68, which allows them to be resistant to water and dust, so that they can be placed in different weather conditions and underground.
Shed lights: These types of lights are designed for use in sheds and warehouses and need to be resistant to impact and dust. Usually, lights with a protection level of IP65 or higher are used so that they can work well in harsh conditions and lighting industrial environments.

Interpreting IP numbers

The IP rating is indicated by two numbers. The first number indicates the level of protection against the ingress of solid objects and the second number indicates the level of protection against the ingress of liquids. The larger the numbers, the higher the level of protection.

First number: Protection against solid objects
0: No protection against solid objects.
1: Protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm. (e.g. human hands)
2: Protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm. (e.g. human fingers)
3: Protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm. (e.g. small tools)
4: Protection against solid objects larger than 1 mm. (e.g. small wires)
5: Protection against dust, so that a small amount of dust may enter the device but does not impair its function.
6: Complete protection against dust.
Second number: Protection against liquids
0: No protection against water.
1: Protection against vertical drops of water. (e.g. dripping water)
2: Protection against drops of water at an angle of 15 degrees.
3: Protection against splashes of water at an angle of 60 degrees.
4: Protection against splashes of water from all directions.
5: Protection against low-pressure water jets from all directions.
6: Protection against powerful water jets from all directions.
7: Protection against temporary immersion in water (up to the specified depth).
8: Complete protection against prolonged immersion in water.
Examples of IP standards

What is IP54?

In this standard, the number 5 indicates partial protection against dust and the number 4 indicates protection against splashing water. This standard is suitable for indoor lights.

What is IP65?

This standard indicates complete protection against dust and strong splashing water. Lights with this standard are suitable for outdoor environments.

Example: IP65 means that the light is completely dust-proof and protected against splashing water from any angle.

How to identify the waterproof rating?

To determine the waterproof rating of a light, refer to the label on the product or in the manual. The IP rating is clearly indicated on this label.

Protection rating tests

Equipment must be tested under various conditions to accurately determine the IP standard. These tests include exposing the equipment to water jets, dust ingress, and even immersion in water for specified periods of time. For example, the IP68 rating test involves completely submerging the device in water for extended periods of time.

Summary
The IP rating is one of the most important factors in selecting electrical equipment and lights, especially in environments where the equipment is exposed to dust or water. By looking at the rating table and interpreting the numbers, you can choose the right equipment for your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions
What IP rating is suitable for bathroom lights?

Bathroom lights require a high degree of protection due to the presence of moisture and steam. A minimum of IP44 is recommended for bathroom lights, which means protection against splashing water and the ingress of small objects.

How can you tell if a device is waterproof?

To determine how waterproof a device is, you need to look at the second digit of its IP code. For example, an IP67 rating indicates that the device can be temporarily submerged in water, while IP68 indicates resistance to complete and prolonged immersion in water.

What is the difference between IP44 and IP68?

IP44 means protection against solid objects larger than 1 mm and splashing water from any direction, while IP68 indicates complete protection against dust and complete and prolonged immersion in water. IP68 is intended for devices that are exposed to more severe environmental conditions.