What are IP Ratings for Light Fixtures, and What Is Their Importance?

Every light fixture, whether in your home or in your outdoor lighting, has an IP rating. The IP rating is difficult to determine if you are not familiar with the numbers or rating system. The IP rating is especially important for outdoor lighting. Learn more about what this rating system is and why it is important.

What Is the IP Rating System?

The IP rating system is a way to determine how resilient your lighting fixture is. This is a two-digit number that is actually made up of two single rating numbers. The first number of the IP rating is how resistant the light fixture is to allow solids to enter the fixture. The second number is how resistant the light fixture is to liquids. Both ratings tell you how well your outdoor lighting will hold up to the weather and outdoor influences.

What Are the Different Ratings?

The IP rating system is a two-digit rating. The first digit is imperviousness to solids and ranges from 1 to 6, 6 being completely resistant. The second digit is imperviousness to water and ranges from 1 to 8, with 8 being able to be completely submerged in water and still function. So a light fixture with an IP rating of 68 is completely resistant to both solids and liquids and is the best option for outdoor lighting where the fixtures are likely to be in frequent contact with water and debris.

Why IP Ratings Are Important

The IP rating of a light fixture tells you how resistant the fixture is to weather and debris that outdoor lighting frequently comes into contact with. If a light fixture has a low IP rating, it is not likely to stand up to severe weather, if any type of precipitation at all. 

We use only the highest rated light fixtures to install permanent outdoor lighting at your home or business. You can rest easy knowing that your outdoor lighting will last for several years. Contact us today to learn more or to get started with an estimate.