LED Strip IP Rating Guide: IP20, IP65, IP67, IP68 Explained
Understand IP ratings for LED strip lights — what each level protects against, which rating you need for different environments, and how waterproofing is achieved.
IP (Ingress Protection) rating is one of the most critical specifications for LED strip selection. Choosing the wrong IP rating leads to premature failure in outdoor or wet environments, or unnecessary cost in dry indoor applications. This guide from Mihoray explains each IP level and provides clear selection criteria.
Understanding IP Rating Structure
IP ratings follow the format 'IPXY' where X = solid particle protection (0-6) and Y = liquid protection (0-9). For LED strips, the liquid protection digit (Y) is most critical: 0 = no protection, 5 = water jets, 7 = temporary immersion, 8 = continuous submersion.
| IP Rating | Protection Level | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| IP20 | No water protection | Indoor dry environments: coves, shelves, display cabinets |
| IP54 | Splash-proof | Covered outdoor, semi-exposed areas |
| IP65 | Water jet protection | Bathrooms, kitchens, covered terraces, semi-outdoor |
| IP67 | Temporary immersion (1m/30min) | Exposed outdoor, facades, ground channels |
| IP68 | Continuous submersion | Pools, fountains, underwater applications |
Q: What IP rating do I need for outdoor LED strip?
For outdoor LED strip installations, IP67 is the recommended minimum. IP67 protects against temporary water immersion — handling heavy rain, accumulated water in channels, and pressure washing. IP65 may be acceptable for covered outdoor areas protected from direct rain. For ground-recessed or near-water installations, IP68 is required. Mihoray tests all outdoor-rated strips to their stated IP level with documented spray/immersion testing and post-test electrical verification.
How Waterproofing Is Achieved
Different IP levels use different protection methods: IP65 typically uses silicone sleeve or nano-coating over the PCB surface. IP67 uses full silicone extrusion encapsulation around the entire strip assembly. IP68 uses potted silicone or resin encapsulation with sealed end caps rated for continuous water pressure. Each method affects flexibility, heat dissipation, and light output differently.
IP Rating Selection by Environment
Indoor dry (offices, living rooms, retail shelves): IP20. Indoor wet (bathrooms, kitchens, spas): IP65. Covered outdoor (terraces, canopies, covered walkways): IP65. Exposed outdoor (facades, signs, open terraces): IP67. Ground-recessed channels: IP67 minimum, IP68 preferred. Near water features: IP68. Submerged: IP68 with pressure rating.
Q: Does higher IP rating affect LED strip brightness?
Yes, slightly. The silicone or resin encapsulation used for IP67/IP68 protection acts as an additional diffusion layer, typically reducing measured lumen output by 10-15% compared to IP20 bare strips. However, this effect also improves light uniformity and reduces glare. Mihoray specifies lumen output for each IP variant separately so specifiers can account for this in lighting calculations.
Q: Can IP67 LED strip be used in swimming pools?
IP67 is not recommended for permanent submersion in pools. IP67 protects against temporary immersion (30 minutes at 1 meter depth) — suitable for rain and occasional flooding. For swimming pools, fountains, and other continuously submerged applications, IP68-rated products with specific depth and pressure ratings are required. Mihoray can supply IP68 LED solutions validated for underwater use.
Quality Verification
Reputable manufacturers like Mihoray validate IP ratings through standardized testing: IP65 undergoes water jet testing from all angles at 12.5 liters/minute. IP67 undergoes immersion testing at 1 meter depth for 30 minutes. Post-test verification confirms no water ingress and continued electrical function. Request test reports and post-test photos when evaluating LED strip suppliers.
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