LED Waterproof Fixtures
The colour code is a combination of colour rendering (CRI) and light colour (Kelvin). The first number indicates the colour rendering (1 = very poor colour rendering, 9 = maximum colour fastness). The second and third number contains the light colour. Example: the colour code 830 consists of good colour rendering (8) and warm white light (3000K).
Every bulb or fixture has an energy efficiency class A to G. Energy label A is the most efficient and G the least. LED lighting is the most sustainable lighting technique. Even if a LED bulb is rated E or lower, they still save 70% of energy compared to conventional lighting with the same energy label. Why is it the same label then? To motivate LED brands to get even more durable.
The IP value indicates the degree of protection against the ingress of moisture and dust. The 1st digit (0 = not protected until 6 = completely dustproof) indicates the protection against dust. The 2nd digit (0 = not protected until 8 = protected against immersion) indicates the protection against water. Products with an IP44 rating are splashproof and products with an IP65 rating or higher are (completely) dustproof and waterproof.
Can waterproof LED fixtures always be used outdoors?
No, this is not the case. A waterproof LED fixture can only be used outdoors if the entire installation of the fixture is waterproof: the entire housing of the fixture as well as the connection of the fixture's wiring with the power cable. Do you need an external accessory, such as an LED driver? This needs to be waterproof, as do the connections between the fixture and the light point. A waterproof installation is achieved with an:
- External connection - In this case, you use a waterproof junction box to safely connect the wiring of the power network, the fixture and possibly a waterproof accessory.
- Internal connection - A cable gland is used to guide the power cable into the fixture. You tighten this cable gland tightly around the cable to make the connection waterproof. Fixtures with through-wiring have two swivel glands, so a cap is needed for the cable gland at the end of the row.
How do you install waterproof LED fixtures?
The installation of waterproof LED fixtures is completed in just a few steps. As mentioned above, these fixtures are either fitted with a cable gland (or two in case of through-wiring), or require an external junction box. We explain both options based on two of our most popular fixtures.
Waterproof LED battens (cable gland)
- Turn off the power and switch off the fuse.
- Remove the cover from the waterproof LED fixture.
- Drill the holes and screw the fixture to the ceiling.
- Attach the power cable via the cable gland and with the terminal block / clamp to the fixture's wiring.
- Tighten the swivel gland clockwise around the power cable.
- Through-wiring? Place a cap on the cable gland on the other side.
- Place the cap on the fixture (using the retaining clips provided).
- Switch on the power and illuminate!
Waterproof LED floodlights (external junction box)
- Turn off the power and switch off the fuse.
- Attach the junction box to the wall with the mounting materials, if not already present.
- Drill holes to screw the bracket of the fixture to the wall.
- Fasten the power cable via the waterproof junction box to the fixture's wiring with a terminal block or clamp.
- Close the junction box.
- Tilt the fixture to the desired angle.
- Switch on the power and you can use the lights.
Which waterproof IP ratings can be used where?
A LED fixture is waterproof if the second number of the IP value is at least 4, such as IP44. Note that in this case it is splash-proof. Do you want a completely waterproof fixture? Then opt for IP65, IP66 or IP67. Usually, splash-proof LED fixtures are adequate for damp indoor areas and sheltered outdoor environments. These include basements, garages, warehouses, sheds, stables, parking garages, bathrooms and canopies (below them). You can always be on the safe side with waterproof LED fixtures. These IP65+ fixtures are generally recommended for street and site lighting (against fences and/or outside walls or as a light pole).
Want advice on how to use these fixtures for your business?
At Any-Lamp, you will find many types of waterproof LED fixtures. Which one would look best in your business? You can contact our lighting experts for professional lighting advice. Together, we will discuss the type of premises we are dealing with and whether you have specific lighting requirements (dimmable fixtures, sensors and/or emergency lighting). Are we considering waterproof LED fixtures for indoors or outdoors? Are we looking at standard ceilings or high ceilings? Are they work areas or communal areas in your premises? We will be happy to advise you on the products to be used for each application. If required, we will place an order for you immediately.
