What IP Rating Means

IP stands for Ingress Protection - it rates how well an enclosure keeps out solid particles and water. The first digit (after IP) rates solid particle protection (0–6). The second digit rates water protection (0–9K). IP65: first digit 6 = completely dust-tight. Second digit 5 = protected against water jets from any direction. This is sufficient for rain, dust storms, and normal outdoor conditions - making IP65 the standard minimum for all outdoor LED lights.

IP Rating Comparison Table

IP44: protected against solid objects >1mm and water splashing from any direction - suitable for indoor luminaires only. IP54: dust protected (some dust may enter, but not enough to cause damage) and water splash from any direction - suitable for covered outdoor areas. IP65: fully dust-tight + water jet resistant - standard for outdoor street lights, flood lights. IP66: fully dust-tight + powerful water jet resistant (fire hose simulation) - for car washes, petrol pump canopies, coastal areas. IP67: fully dust-tight + temporary immersion up to 1m - for underground applications, flood-prone areas. IP68: fully dust-tight + continuous immersion beyond 1m - for underwater lights.

Which IP Rating Do You Need?

Residential outdoor (home compound, garden): IP65 minimum. Road street lights: IP65 minimum (IP66 for heavy monsoon / coastal areas). Flood lights on petrol pump canopy: IP66 (subject to high-pressure cleaning). Industrial flood lights (chemical plant, food processing): IP66 or IP67. Underground pit lights: IP67 minimum. Coastal Maharashtra (Konkan, Palghar, Raigad): IP66 mandatory - salt spray corrosion is severe. High-mast lights in coastal areas: IP66 + stainless steel hardware. All Xera Tech outdoor products are rated IP65 minimum, with IP66 available for coastal and industrial applications.

IK Rating - Impact Protection

Alongside IP rating, check the IK (Impact Protection) rating for products in public spaces. IK08 = protected against 5 joule impacts (equivalent to a 1.7 kg object dropped from 300mm). IK10 = protected against 20 joule impacts (equivalent to a 5 kg object from 400mm). Street light fixtures in public areas should have a minimum IK08 rating to withstand stone throwing, vehicle brush-offs, and accidental impacts.