IP (Ingress Protection) ratings tell you exactly how resistant a fixture is to solids and liquids. Two numbers — easy to decode once you know how.

The Format: IPXY

  • X (solids, 0-6): Protection against objects, dust, and accidental touch.
  • Y (liquids, 0-9): Protection against water in various forms.

Common Ratings Explained

IP20 — Touch-safe, no water protection. For dry indoor areas only: bedrooms, living rooms, hallways.

IP44 — Splash-proof from any direction. Suitable for bathroom Zone 2 and covered outdoor areas like soffits.

IP65 — Dust-tight + jet-proof. The workhorse for outdoor flood lights, garden spots, and shower enclosures.

IP67 — Temporary immersion (1 m, 30 min). For in-ground lights, pond features, and areas prone to flooding.

IP68 — Continuous immersion. Swimming pools and underwater fixtures.

Choosing the Right Rating

For most residential outdoor projects, IP65 is the sweet spot — it's fully weatherproof for rain, sprinklers, and jet-cleaning. Save money by not over-spec'ing to IP67 unless you genuinely need submersion protection.