Understanding IP Ratings: Choosing the Right LED Fixture for Harsh Environments

Written By MPE Marketing

When it comes to selecting commercial LED lighting, especially for industrial, outdoor, or demanding indoor applications, one specification you can’t afford to overlook is the IP rating. It directly impacts the durability, longevity, and safety of your lighting investment.

🔍 What is an IP Rating?

An IP (Ingress Protection) rating is a standardized measurement of how well a fixture resists intrusion from solid objects (like dust) and liquids (like water). It’s composed of two digits:

  • First digit (0-6): Protection from solids like dust, dirt, and debris

  • Second digit (0-8): Protection from moisture or liquid intrusion

For example, an IP65-rated LED stick light is dust-tight and protected against water jets — making it perfect for outdoor or washdown environments.

🏗️ Why IP Ratings Matter in Commercial LED Lighting

Whether you’re lighting up a warehouse, food processing plant, car wash, refrigerated display, or parking garage, the IP rating determines:

  • 💧 Moisture resistance: Prevents fixture failure in humid or wet environments

  • 🧹 Dust protection: Essential for factories, sawmills, or anywhere airborne particles are present

  • ⚙️ Longevity and ROI: Fewer breakdowns mean longer lifespan and reduced maintenance

💡 Common IP Ratings Explained

  • IP20: Basic protection — suitable for dry indoor areas

  • IP44: Splash-resistant — common in restrooms or protected outdoor zones

  • IP65: Dust-tight and water-jet resistant — ideal for industrial and outdoor applications

  • IP67: Fully dust-tight and temporarily submersible — perfect for tough environments like refrigeration

  • IP69K: Resistant to high-pressure, high-temperature washdowns — used in food processing and manufacturing

🔌 Where LED Stick Lighting Fits In

At LED Stick, we design our fixtures with reliability and versatility in mind. Many of our LED stick light models are available in IP65 and higher, ensuring they stand up to real-world conditions in:

  • Grocery stores and supermarkets

  • Warehouses and logistics facilities

  • Cold storage and refrigerated cases

  • Automotive service bays

  • Outdoor signage and displays

🔎 Ready to Upgrade?

Choosing the right IP-rated LED lighting doesn’t have to be confusing. Let our team help you select the best fit for your environment — whether you're designing for dust, damp, or durability.

👉 Contact Us Today to learn more or request a quote.

MPE Marketing https://www.callmpe.com
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