IP Ratings Explained

IP Ratings: What They Mean

What Is an IP rating?

IP Rating stands for 'Ingress Protection Rating'. An IP Rating defines how well-sealed a casing or electrical enclosure is from the 'ingress' of solids and water.

An IP rating consists of two numbers, e.g. IP65. Both numbers in an IP Rating have a specific definition. The first number in an IP rating indicates how well-sealed the item is from the intrusion of solids, including dust and sand. The second number in an IP rating indicates how well-sealed the item is from the intrusion of water. The higher the number, the more protected the article is from ingress.

IP rating examples

Using the IP Rating Chart above, we can now understand any IP Rating. Here are some examples:

What is IP65 rating?

IP65 means the item is dust-tight and protected against water jets from any angle.

What is IP54 rating?

IP54 means that the item is protected from most dust particles and that it is protected against water splashes from any angle.

What is IP44 rating?

IP44 means that the item is protected from objects 1mm+ in size and that it is protected against water splashes from any angle.

What is IP20 rating?

IP20 Rating means that the item is protected from objects 12.5mm+ in size and has no protection from water ingress.

Why are IP ratings important for lighting?

IP Ratings are essential when it comes to lighting as, when you are considering your purchase, you will need to consider whether a light is suitably IP rated to be installed in the area that you want to use it.

For example, if you want to install a light in your garden, you will need to ensure that it is suitably IP rated to protect from the ingress of rainwater or dirt.

On our website, the IP Rating for each outdoor light is listed in the specifications section on the product page. In addition, you can use the IP Rating Chart above to determine whether a light you are considering would be suitable for use in the area that you want it.

For further information and advice on IP Ratings and if any of our products are suitable for use in certain areas, please contact our friendly sales team via online live chat or telephone.