IP rating: which light for outdoor use?

Put an indoor lamp outside and it fails at the first rain — or worse, becomes an electrical hazard. The IP rating tells you exactly where a light can live. Here is how to read it.

What does ‘IP44’ mean?

The IP rating (Ingress Protection) is made up of two digits:

• 1st digit (0–6): protection against solid objects and dust.
• 2nd digit (0–9): protection against water. This is the one that matters most outdoors.

Which rating for which location?

• IP20 — indoors only: no protection against water. Never outside, even under cover.
• IP44 — splashing water: suitable for a covered terrace, a porch or a sheltered balcony.
• IP54 / IP55: good weather resistance for an exposed wall or an exterior wall.
• IP65 — water jets: the standard for fully outdoor use: pathways, gardens, a wall light exposed to rain.
• IP67 / IP68 — immersion: for flood-prone areas, around swimming pools and for in-ground recessed spotlights.

The simple rule

As soon as a light is genuinely exposed to rain, don't go below IP65. Under a roof or eaves, IP44 is enough. Near water or at ground level, step up to IP67.

What about installation?

A good IP rating is no substitute for an installation compliant with NF C 15-100: protected power supply, earthing, watertight cable gland. If in doubt about an outdoor light point, have the installation checked by an electrician — that is the spirit in which our lights are designed.