When choosing lighting solutions such as LED panel lights or LED linear lights, understanding the IP rating is crucial. IP means Ingress Protection, is a standard set by the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) to define how well a fixture resists intrusion from solid objects and liquids.

This rating helps users determine whether a light fixture can operate safely and efficiently in specific environments, whether it’s a clean office or a wet industrial setting.

Usually, IP rating of LED panel light is IP44, for LED flood light is IP65,so do you know what are these numbers mean?

What Do the Two Digits in an IP Rating Mean?

 

An IP rating is typically composed of two digits, each indicating a level of protection:

The first digit (0–6) refers to protection against solid particles such as dust or other small objects.

The second digit (0–8) refers to protection against liquids, such as water or moisture.

Here’s a brief breakdown:

First digit (solid object protection)
0 = No protection
1–4 = Protection against tools, small wires, or fingers
5 = Dust protected
6 = Dust tight

Second digit (water protection)
0 = No protection
1–4 = Protection from water droplets or splashes
5 = Protection from water jets
6 = Protection from powerful water jets

7 = Immersion up to 1m
8 = Long-term immersion

Common IP Ratings for Commercial Indoor Lightings

When selecting commercial lighting like LED panel lights or LED indoor lights, it’s common to see these IP ratings:

IP20

• Use Case:Indoor, dry environments

• Protection Level:Basic protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm, no protection against water

• Application:Offices, conference rooms, and classrooms using LED panel lights

l IP44

• Use Case:Slightly damp areas

• Protection Level:Protection against small tools and splashes of water

• Application:Bathrooms, kitchens, or semi-covered commercial spaces

IP65

• Use Case:Outdoor or dusty environments

• Protection Level:Complete protection against dust and protection from low-pressure water jets

• Application:Warehouses, factories, outdoor signage

IP68

• Use Case:Submerged or high-moisture areas

• Protection Level:Fully dust-tight and waterproof for long-term immersion

• Application:Specialty commercial applications like fountains or underground tunnels

Understanding the IP rating of your lighting fixtures ensures you select the right product for your specific environment. Whether you're installing LED panel lights in a dry office or need high-durability LED lights for wet or dusty conditions, the IP rating offers a clear guideline. When planning your indoor lighting setup, always check the IP rating to ensure long-term safety and performance.

If you're not sure how to choose lighting fixtures when purchasing them, learning about IP ratings will make you more and more professional in selecting lighting fixtures in the future, helping you pick out the ones you really like.