What is IP rating? How to choose the right IP rating for outdoor light?

What is IP rating?

How to choose the right IP rating for outdoor light?

In Europe, buyers use an IP (Ingress Protection) rating to assess the level of protection an electrical enclosure provides against external elements.

IP is a standard marking for electrical and electronic equipment, representing the totality of Ingress Protection. It informs users about how effectively their device is shielded against foreign objects (like dust) and moisture.

The IP code specifies the protection level of an enclosure for electrical equipment with a nominal voltage not exceeding 72.5 kV. It is defined in the international standard EN 60529 (including British BS EN 60529:1992 and European IEC 60509:1989), which characterizes the sealing efficiency of enclosures against penetration by foreign bodies (such as tools, dirt, etc.).

For example, in an IP65 rating:

The first number (6) denotes the degree of dust protection.

The second number (5) indicates the level of water resistance.