FYI Ingress Protection / IP Code - what it really means to you:
If you are looking for water proof 12 volt light fixtures or waterproof 12 volt LED light fixtures, be aware of the ip rating. If the ip rating is ip20 or ip40 for example, the fixture is not the least bit water tolerant, so don't use it where it can get wet.
If the ip rating is ip55 or greater, then the fixture is designed to be water-proof. There are varying degrees of durability, as you can learn about below.
IP 20 - Protected against solids larger than 12.5 mm - 0.5 inches (like fingers); not protected against liquids.
IP 40 - Protected against solids larger than 1 mm - 0.04 inches - less than 1/16" (like most wires and screws); not protected against liquids.
IP 55 - Protected against dust and protected against jets of water (6.3mm - 0.25 inch nozzle) from all directions.
IP 65 - Completely protected against dust and protected against powerful jets of water (12.5mm - 0.5 inch nozzle) from all directions, i.e. waterproof.
IP 68 - Completely protected against dust and immersion beyond 1 meter. Suitable for continuous immersion based on manufacturer specifications.
You can learn more from Wikipedia - IP codes.
You can order waterproof lights on the following web pages: waterproof 12 volt lights and waterproof 12 volt LED lights. However, now that you are educated on ip ratings, an easier way to find the waterproof light fixtures that meet your needs is to go to the style of fixture you want, for example 12 volt LED Lights - Ceiling Recess Mount, find the size you want, and then look for the ip rating that fits your need. To start at the top and hone in on the style you want, choose from:
How to waterproof switches: |
