What do IP ratings mean?

The IP (Ingress Protection) code shows how well a device is protected against solid objects and water. The first digit covers dust and solids (0–6), the second covers water (0–8).

The most common ratings

• IP20: protected against finger contact, not against water. Dry indoor areas only.
• IP44: protected against objects larger than 1 mm and splashing water from any direction. For bathrooms and sheltered outdoor areas.
• IP65: dust-tight and resistant to water jets. For exposed façades, gardens and car park chargers.
• IP67: resistant to temporary immersion. For in-ground fittings.
• IP68: suitable for continuous immersion. For pool and pond lighting.

How to choose

Think about the worst conditions at the installation point: a wall exposed to rain needs IP65 rather than IP44. Zones close to the shower require higher protection in bathrooms. For outdoor EV chargers IP54 is considered the minimum; IP65 is preferable where they are directly exposed to rain.