Short answer
IP20 is for dry indoor areas, IP44 for bathrooms, kitchens and covered balconies that see splashes, IP65 for exposed outdoor fittings such as façade and flood lights that face rain, and IP67 or above for in-ground and fittings that may be briefly submerged.
How to read an IP code
IP stands for Ingress Protection. The first digit (0–6) rates protection against dust and solids; the second (0–8) rates protection against water. Higher is more protected.
Which rating to specify
| Space | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Living rooms, offices | IP20 |
| Bathrooms, kitchens, covered balconies | IP44 |
| Façades, flood lights, gates | IP65 |
| In-ground, poolside, fountains | IP67 – IP68 |
Monsoon conditions
For exposed façades and gardens in Indian monsoon conditions, treat IP65 as the minimum, and check that cable glands and junction boxes match the fitting's rating.
Common questions
Can I use an IP44 light outdoors?
Only where it is covered from direct rain, such as a porch ceiling. Exposed fittings need IP65.
What does IP65 mean?
Dust-tight (6) and protected against water jets from any direction (5).