Infographic: What does IP mean in LED lighting?

IP stands for Ingress Protection: a code from the EN 60529 standard that indicates how well a luminaire is protected against the ingress of solid particles and water. The first digit relates to dust and contact (0 to 6), the second to water (0 to 9). The higher the digits, the better the protection.

Waterproof outdoor light on a brick façade
Outdoors, choose at least IP65: dust-tight and resistant to rain.

The most common IP ratings

IP ratingProtectionApplication
IP20against contact with fingers, not against waterdry indoor spaces
IP44against objects larger than 1 mm and splashing waterbathroom (outside the shower zone), canopy
IP54dust-protected and splash-prooffaçade, carport, sheltered outdoor spot
IP65dust-tight and resistant to water jetsoutdoors, garage, workshop
IP66dust-tight and resistant to powerful water jetsconstruction site, industry, grounds
IP67dust-tight and resistant to temporary immersionground spotlights, places with puddles
IP69Kresistant to high-pressure and hot-water cleaninglivestock barns, food industry

Which IP rating do you need?

  • Living room, office: IP20 is sufficient.
  • Bathroom: IP44 or higher depending on the zone; directly above or in the shower often IP65.
  • Outdoors under a canopy: IP44 to IP54.
  • Outdoors, exposed to the elements: IP65 or IP66.
  • Damp or dusty commercial spaces: IP65 or IP66, for example waterproof LED batten luminaires.

IP and IK: not the same

The IP rating concerns dust and water. The IK rating concerns impact resistance, for example IK08 (5 joules) or IK10 (20 joules). For sports halls, car parks and public spaces, the IK rating is important too.

Also take a look at our IP65 and IP66 LED site lights.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between IP65 and IP66?

Both are completely dust-tight. IP65 is resistant to water jets, IP66 to powerful water jets.

Which IP rating do I need in the bathroom?

Outside the shower zone, IP44 is usually sufficient. In or directly above the shower, choose IP65.

What does an X in the IP code mean, as in IPX4?

The X means that digit has not been tested. IPX4 has therefore been tested for splashing water, but not for dust.