Understanding IP Ratings: Right Lighting for Bathrooms and Outdoors

Understanding IP Ratings: Right Lighting for Bathrooms and Outdoors

When it comes to choosing the right lighting for moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and outdoor spaces, IP ratings play a crucial role. These ratings determine the level of protection your light fittings have against dust and water. In this guide, we'll explain IP ratings, the different zones you should be aware of, and the types of lighting suitable for each area.

What is an IP Rating?

IP stands for Ingress Protection, and it's followed by two numbers. The first digit refers to protection against solid objects like dust, and the second refers to protection against liquids like water. The higher the number, the greater the protection.

Here's a breakdown of the ratings:

  • First Digit (Protection from Solid Objects):

    • 0: No protection
    • 1: Protected against objects larger than 50mm
    • 2: Protected against objects larger than 12.5mm
    • 3: Protected against objects larger than 2.5mm
    • 4: Protected against objects larger than 1mm
    • 5: Dust protected (limited dust ingress)
    • 6: Dust tight (no dust ingress)
  • Second Digit (Protection from Water):

    • 0: No protection
    • 1: Protected from vertically dripping water
    • 2: Protected from dripping water when tilted up to 15 degrees
    • 3: Protected from sprayed water up to 60 degrees from vertical
    • 4: Protected from water splashes from all directions
    • 5: Protected from low-pressure water jets
    • 6: Protected from high-pressure water jets
    • 7: Protected from temporary immersion
    • 8: Protected from continuous immersion

Understanding Bathroom Zones

Bathrooms are divided into zones to ensure the correct lighting is chosen based on the level of moisture exposure. Here's what each zone means:

  • Zone 0: This is inside the bath or shower. Any lighting here must be at least IP67 rated, meaning it can withstand full immersion in water.

  • Zone 1: This covers the area directly above the bath or shower, up to a height of 2.25m from the floor. Lights in this area need a minimum rating of IP44, which protects against splashes from all directions. If the light is subject to direct water spray (such as from a showerhead), an IP65 rating is recommended.

  • Zone 2: This is the area 0.6m outside the perimeter of the bath or shower and up to 2.25m high. Lights in this zone must also be IP44 rated to protect against water splashes.

  • Outside Zones: Beyond these zones, where the risk of water exposure is lower, IP20 lights can be used. However, if you expect condensation or occasional splashes, it’s safer to go with IP44 or higher.

Outdoor IP Ratings

Outdoor lighting is exposed to various environmental factors, including rain, dust, and extreme temperatures. Here's what to consider when choosing outdoor lighting:

  • IP44: Ideal for sheltered outdoor areas, like porches or under eaves, where the lighting will only be exposed to occasional splashes of rain.

  • IP65: Great for garden lighting, driveways, or areas where fixtures might come into contact with water jets, such as from hoses.

  • IP67 & IP68: These ratings are best for lights that are installed in areas exposed to water immersion, such as garden ponds or water features. IP67 can handle temporary immersion, while IP68 can handle continuous immersion in water.

Choosing the Right IP Rating for Your Space

Now that you know how IP ratings work and the different zones in bathrooms and outdoors, choosing the right lighting becomes simpler. Here are a few final tips:

  • Bathrooms: Stick to IP44 for most areas, with IP67 or higher for direct contact with water.
  • Outdoors: For general outdoor use, IP44 is often enough. For areas with direct water exposure or submerged lights, aim for IP65 to IP68.

By selecting the correct IP-rated lighting, you ensure not only compliance with safety standards but also longevity for your lighting investments. This simple choice can make a significant difference in protecting your fixtures from moisture and dirt.