When choosing lighting fixtures for your home or outdoor space, it's crucial to understand what IP ratings mean and how they determine whether a light is suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
Let’s break down what IP ratings mean and why they matter when selecting your next light fixture.
What Is an IP Rating in Lighting?
IP, which stands for Ingress Protection, indicates how well a lighting fixture is protected against external elements such as dust, dirt, and water.
This rating helps you understand the durability, resilience, and safety of the fixture in specific environments, whether indoor or outdoor.
In short, the IP rating is a key factor to consider before purchasing any lighting unit, depending on where you plan to install it.
How to Read an IP Rating: What Do the Two Numbers Mean?
An IP rating is made up of two digits:
- The first number refers to the level of protection against solid objects like dust or debris.
- The second number refers to the level of protection against liquids, such as water or moisture.
The higher the number, the greater the protection.
For example:
- A higher first digit = more protection against dust and particles
- A higher second digit = more protection against water (from splashes to immersion)
Best IP Ratings for Indoor Lighting
Indoor lighting doesn’t require as much protection as outdoor fixtures, so lower IP ratings are generally sufficient.
- Most decorative chandeliers and pendant lights have an IP rating of IP20, which is perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and offices.
- For areas with more moisture, like kitchens or bathrooms, IP44 or IP54 is more appropriate, especially around steam- or water-prone zones.
Some lights rated IP65 are also flexible enough for both indoor and outdoor use.
What IP Rating Do You Need for Outdoor Lighting?
Outdoor lighting fixtures like ground lights, wall sconces, or garden spotlights are exposed to harsh conditions such as rain, dust, and wind.
For these, you’ll want a higher rating:
- IP65 and above is recommended to withstand rain, irrigation water, dust, and more.
- If you’re installing lights in a garden, fence, or patio, go for IP66 or IP68 to ensure long-term durability.
Examples: Matching IP Ratings to Usage Areas
Here’s how different IP ratings apply to real-world settings:
- IP20: Suitable for indoor spaces like living rooms, bedrooms, offices, cafés, and retail shops.
- IP44 / IP54: Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or any space exposed to high humidity or steam.
- IP65 / IP66: Best for outdoor wall lights, courtyards, fences, or areas that may get splashed by rain or water.
- IP68: Offers the highest level of protection; great for garden poles, walkway lights, or in-ground spotlights heavily exposed to weather.
What’s the Difference Between IP65 and IP66?
- IP65: Protects against dust ingress and water jets or sprayed water from any direction.
- IP66: Also protects against dust but offers a higher level of resistance to heavy rain or powerful water jets.
For stronger protection in severe conditions, go with IP66.
Is an IP67 Light Fixture Waterproof?
Yes , IP67 fixtures can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes.
This makes them a great choice for outdoor use in areas prone to flooding, heavy rain, or temporary submersion.
Choosing the Right IP Rating for Your Space
By understanding IP ratings, you can confidently choose the right light for your space, balancing design, function, and durability.
Whether you're outfitting a living room, a bathroom, or an outdoor patio, always consider the IP rating that suits the environment.
Explore Fanoos’ wide selection of indoor and outdoor lighting with trusted IP ratings and premium quality you can rely on.