Get Your Waterproof or Water-Resistant Lights On!
Lighting technology has improved significantly in recent years, with the emergence of waterproof and water-resistant lights in the market. However, not many people can differentiate between the two, let alone know the difference between their IP ratings. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing these terms in technical detail to help you decide which type of light you need.
What is IP rating?
The International Protection (IP) rating system is an internationally recognized standard that measures an electrical product's capability to withstand intrusion from dust and moisture.
This rating is split into two digits, where the first digit represents the level of dust-resistant technology, and the second digit represents the water-resistant capacity. The higher the numbers, the better the protection against dust and water.
When buying a light bulb, floodlight, or any other lighting product, it's essential to have a fundamental understanding of what kind of IP code you're looking for. Now let's take a look at the two types of lighting protection.
Waterproof Lighting IP Rating
Waterproof lights are lights that can withstand an IP68 rating, meaning the light is both completely dustproof and waterproof. This rating system indicates that the light can be submerged in water that is under 1m deep, so you can use them in swimming pools, hot tubs, and other water installations.
Waterproof lighting is mostly used outdoors, in places close to high humidity, or in places prone to getting wet, such as aquariums, pools, patios, and garden areas. If you're looking for lighting that will be installed in areas with consistent water exposure, waterproof lighting will provide the best and safest option.
Water-Resistant Lighting IP Rating
Water-resistant lights, on the other hand, have an IP65 rating, meaning they can withstand dust, rain, and limited jets of water; however, they are NOT submersible. This type of lighting is perfect for outdoor installations, especially for those looking to illuminate walkways, outdoor patios, or gardens.
Water-resistant lighting can be used in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens or water-fronted patios. However, you must be careful not to submerge them in water. This can cause damage to both the light and the area around it, leading to electrical shock and other hazards.
Which One Do You Need?
When it comes to choosing the IP rating suitable for lighting needs, it's essential to consider the area where the lighting will be installed, the level of protection it will need, and the potential exposure to water or moisture. It's helpful to consider the impact the environment may have on your lighting when creating your lighting design.
You don't want to pay for lights with an IP68 rating when all you need is an IP65 rating. While the former can provide a higher level of protection, they're more expensive than water-resistant bulbs. However, if you need lighting near water, such as a splash park, pool, or fountain, waterproof lights will provide the best protection against dust and water.
In summary, while both waterproof and water-resistant lighting provide superior protection against environmental elements, choosing the correct IP rating is critical in ensuring your lighting installation can provide you with optimal results for the selected area.