What Do IP Ratings Actually Mean?

Think of IP ratings as a weather-resistance score for your lights. IP stands for Ingress Protection, and those two numbers tell you exactly how well your light can handle the British weather (and everything else nature throws at it).

Here’s how to read them:

• First number (0-6): Protection against solid objects like dust and debris
• Second number (0-8): Protection against water

The higher the number, the better the protection. Simple as that.

IP44: The Practical Choice for Most UK Gardens

What does IP44 actually protect against?

An IP44-rated light is protected against solid objects larger than 1mm (think screws, small insects) and water splashes from any direction. In plain English? Your light will handle:

• Rain showers (even the proper British downpours)
• Garden hose spray during cleaning
• Morning dew and evening moisture
• Windblown water

Is IP44 enough for you?

For most UK homes, absolutely yes. IP44 is perfectly adequate if your lights are:

• Under eaves or porch overhangs
• On sheltered walls
• In typical garden positions
• Away from direct water exposure

The only situations where IP44 might struggle? Direct pressure washing or areas where water flows upwards (which, let’s be honest, doesn’t happen often in a typical garden).

The IP44 advantage: More affordable whilst still being fully weatherproof for standard outdoor use.

IP65: Maximum Protection When You Need It

What makes IP65 different?

IP65 lights are completely dust-tight (that’s the ‘6’) and can withstand water jets from any angle (that’s the ‘5’). These are the lights you’d trust in:

• Fully exposed coastal locations
• Areas directly under downpipes
• Near swimming pools, ponds, or water features
• Wet room-style outdoor showers
• Commercial settings with high-pressure cleaning
• Seafront properties battling salt spray

When should you choose IP65?

Ask yourself these questions:

1. Is your light completely exposed with no shelter whatsoever? Think wall lights on open-aspect properties with no roof overhang.
2. Will water hit it from unusual angles? Near fountains, irrigation systems, or areas prone to water bounce-back.
3. Is it in a high-moisture zone? Adjacent to hot tubs, pool areas, or outdoor cooking stations.
4. Do you live in an extreme weather location? Exposed hillsides, coastal properties, or areas prone to driving rain.

If you answered yes to any of these, IP65 is your friend.

The Real-World Comparison

Let’s break it down with common scenarios:

Front porch wall lights: IP44 is perfect. They’re sheltered by your overhang and only face typical rain.

Garden post lights along your driveway: IP44 works brilliantly. They’re designed for this.

Lights beside your swimming pool: Go for IP65. Water splashing and cleaning mean you need that extra protection.

Spotlights highlighting your prize rose bushes: IP44 will serve you well.

Lights on a fully exposed coastal cottage wall: IP65 gives you peace of mind against driving rain and salt spray.

Bollard lights marking your garden path: IP44 is absolutely fine.

Beyond the Numbers: What Else Matters?

Build Quality Counts

A well-made IP44 light often outperforms a cheap IP65 light. At Great Lighting, all our outdoor fixtures are manufactured in the UK or Ireland to exacting standards, meaning both our IP44 and IP65 ranges are built to last.

Installation Makes a Difference

Even the best-rated light fails if poorly installed. Ensure:

• Cable entries are properly sealed
• Lights are mounted correctly (usually with the cable entry pointing downwards)
• Recommended installation guidelines are followed

Maintenance Matters

IP65 lights typically need less maintenance because they’re sealed against dust and debris. However, both ratings benefit from an occasional wipe-down to maintain brightness and appearance.

Making Your Decision: A Quick Checklist

Still unsure? Use this decision tree:

Choose IP44 if:

• ✓ Your lights have some shelter or overhang
• ✓ They’re in typical garden positions
• ✓ Budget is a consideration
• ✓ You’re replacing existing IP44 lights that have performed well

Choose IP65 if:

• ✓ Lights face full weather exposure
• ✓ They’re near water features or pools
• ✓ You live in an extreme weather location
• ✓ You want absolute peace of mind
• ✓ Professional or high-traffic settings require maximum protection

Our Recommendations by Light Type

Wall Lanterns: IP44 for porches and covered areas; IP65 for fully exposed walls

Post Lights: IP44 is typically sufficient for driveways and pathways

Garden Spotlights: IP44 for flower beds; IP65 if near irrigation or water features

Bollard Lights: IP44 handles most pathway and border applications perfectly

Pool/Water Feature Lights: Always choose IP65 for these locations

Ready to Choose Your Outdoor Lighting?

Now that you understand the difference, you can shop confidently. Both IP44 and IP65 lights from our range are manufactured to the highest standards, ensuring years of reliable performance in British weather conditions.

Not sure which rating suits your specific situation? Our team is here to help. We’ve been advising homeowners on outdoor lighting for years and can quickly recommend the right solution for your property.

Browse our full range of outdoor lighting or get in touch for personalised advice. We’ll help you create a beautifully lit outdoor space that works reliably, whatever the weather.

Free tip: When you order from Great Lighting, mention your installation location in the notes, and we’ll double-check you’ve selected the right IP rating for your needs. It’s just one more way we ensure you’re delighted with your purchase.