IP ratings of outdoor light fittings

[Andy-1960]

Just stumbled across this on YouTube and I have to say I agree with this guy... how can this fitting be suitable for outdoor use??
I had a quick surf and found the fitting for sale at Screwfix and they state IP23 and weatherproof.. how can it be IP23 AND weatherproof, the two things contradict..
Have a look see what you think..
It's worrying when you think a DIYer could by this and stick outside exposed to the elements and believe he's done nothing wrong.
Surprised at Philips on this one.

I know one thing, I certainly would not fit it outside!

 

[telectrix]

fair enough, but he said near the beginning that customer wanted them under a balcony canopy. i've got similar fitted in soffit. been there 6 years, no problems. no way they'll get wet.

 

[Octopus]

I think you need to apply common sense. If its to light up a covered porch then its probably OK!

 

[Andy-1960]

fair enough, but he said near the beginning that customer wanted them under a balcony canopy. i've got similar fitted in soffit. been there 6 years, no problems. no way they'll get wet.

I agree Tel, but it does not say you can fit them outside providing.... it says they are weatherproof.

 

[Rpa07]

Direct rain IP65 and canopy IP54 is always my recommend. Then I explain that the extra £30 spent on a fitting means no call backs no extra expence and the light fitting will not lose its looks so quickly. Like you say - common sense - if only you could buy that!
Edit- I probably should have watch it first! There is no difference to a £6 downlight. I'd probably be more worried about putting a hole saw into an asbestos sheet that makes the balcony canopy.
He's likeable this spark but I think he's lonely working on his own - always reporting on stuff! Needs a wife to moan to when he gets home!

 

[Octopus]

Like you say - common sense - if only you could buy that!

Hum .......... some people just can't... or wouldn't

 

[HandySparks]

I've just commented on YouTube and had a nice reply. If it's just falling rain that's the issue, then any light fitting in the underside of a porch or sofit is unlikely to get significantly wet. If it was in an exposed, windy, location, say by the sea, I might go for a higher IP rating.

 

[Selfmade]

The instructions say indoors only - looks like someone's put the wrong product in the box to me!

 

[Rpa07]

The instructions say indoors only - looks like someone's put the wrong product in the box to me!

Picture on the box is the same as product BUT you could be right!

 

[richardb7777]

It's all a bit of a minefield when it comes to IP ratings, I have found a good resource (IP Ratings Explained | Ingress Protection Rating | IP Codes | Updated 2022 - https://clarionuk.com/resources/ip-ratings/) which seems to be quite in depth.