When choosing lighting for your home or business, especially in areas prone to moisture or dust, you may come across terms like IP20, IP44, or IP65. These aren’t just random codes—they’re international standards that indicate how well a lighting fixture is protected against solid objects (like dust) and liquids (like water).Knowing the difference between these IP ratings can save you from costly mistakes and ensure the safety and longevity of your lighting investments. In this guide, we’ll break down what IP ratings mean, how to interpret them, and where to use each type of fixture—whether it's your cozy living room, a splash-prone bathroom, or an exposed outdoor patio.
Quick Summary: What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- IP ratings define a fixture’s protection against solids (like dust) and liquids (like water).
- IP20 lights are suitable only for dry, indoor spaces such as living rooms and bedrooms.
- IP44 lights offer splash protection, making them ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and covered outdoor areas.
- IP65 lights are fully dust-tight and water-jet resistant, perfect for outdoor use and wet zones.
- Choosing the wrong IP rating can lead to safety hazards, premature failure, or water damage.
- Use higher IP ratings only where necessary—they offer more protection but usually come at a higher cost.
1. What Is an IP Rating?
IP stands for Ingress Protection, an international standard (IEC 60529) that classifies the degree of protection a product provides against solid objects and moisture. It's particularly important for electrical equipment like lighting fixtures, where exposure to dust or water can cause failure or pose safety risks.
2. How to Read an IP Code (e.g., IP44)
Each IP rating has two digits:
- First digit (0–6): Protection against solid particles (like dust or fingers)
- Second digit (0–8): Protection against liquids (like splashes, sprays, or immersion)
| IP Rating | First Digit (Solids) | Second Digit (Liquids) |
| IP20 | 2 = Protected against fingers or similar objects | 0 = No protection against water |
| IP44 | 4 = Protected against solid objects >1mm | 4 = Protected against splashing water |
| IP65 | 6 = Fully dust-tight | 5 = Protected against low-pressure water jets |
3. Common IP Ratings for Lighting Fixtures
IP20 – For Indoor Use in Dry Areas
- Not waterproof or dust-tight
Suitable for:
- Bedrooms
- Living rooms
- Hallways
- Ceiling lights or chandeliers in dry conditions
Avoid using in bathrooms or kitchens near water sources.
IP44 – Splash-Resistant for Damp or Covered Outdoor Areas
- Protection from splashing water and small particles
Suitable for:
- Bathrooms (zones 2 or outside zones)
- Covered porches or patios
- Kitchen ceiling or wall lighting
A good middle-ground for moisture-prone indoor areas.
IP65 – Water Jet Resistant and Dust-Tight
Offers full dust protection and resists water from jets
Suitable for:
- Outdoor garden or façade lighting
- Shower zone (zone 1) lighting in bathrooms
- Driveways, pathways, courtyards
- Commercial outdoor lighting
A robust choice for harsh environments.
4. Where to Use Each IP Rating
| Area | Recommended IP Rating |
| Living Room | IP20 or higher |
| Kitchen | IP44 (especially near sink or stove) |
| Bathroom Zone 1 | IP65 |
| Bathroom Zone 2 | IP44 or higher |
| Covered Balcony | IP44 |
| Open Garden/Driveway | IP65 |
| Garage | IP44–IP65 depending on exposure |
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using IP20 fixtures outdoors: These offer no water protection and can quickly fail.
- Underestimating humidity: Even indoors, areas like bathrooms and kitchens need splash-resistant lighting.
- Assuming all outdoor lights are weatherproof: Not all "outdoor-looking" fixtures are IP65 rated.
- Installing IP44 in direct rain exposure: For full weather resistance, IP65 is required.
6. Conclusion: Choose Wisely, Light Safely
Understanding IP ratings is crucial for choosing the right lighting for your space—whether you're adding style to your bedroom or ensuring safety on your outdoor deck. Always check the IP code before buying a fixture, especially for humid, wet, or dusty areas. A well-chosen light not only lasts longer but also keeps your home safer and more energy-efficient.
FAQ: IP Rating in Lighting – Common Questions
Q1: Is IP20 safe to use in a bathroom?
A: Only in completely dry zones (Zone 3), far from the tub or shower. For areas near water, opt for IP44 or IP65.
Q2: Can I use IP44 lights outdoors?
A: Only in covered outdoor areas. For fully exposed locations, IP65 is safer.
Q3: Is higher IP rating always better?
A: Not necessarily. Higher IP ratings typically cost more. Use them only where needed (e.g., bathrooms, outdoors).
Q4: Do I need an electrician to install IP-rated lights?
A: For wet areas or outdoor use, professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and compliance with local electrical codes.
Q5: What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?
A: “Water-resistant” (e.g., IP44) handles splashes, while “waterproof” (e.g., IP65) can endure jets or heavy rain.
