Expert Lighting Tips: Damp vs. Wet Location Lighting

If you noticed the terms “wet rated” or “damp rated” on your lighting fixtures, you may have wondered what differentiates these two ratings. The short answer is exposure. One handles direct exposure to water and the other doesn’t. For a more complete understanding, it’s important to learn what each rating means.

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What Are Wet Rated Lights?

Wet-rated lighting fixtures are used in places with direct exposure to water. These locations include almost all outdoor lights, including landscape lighting such as path lights and ground wells. Fixtures rated for wet locations use waterproof seals to protect their internal components from moisture. This eliminates leaks and allows them to safely function in places where other fixtures would fail.

These lights are used everywhere outdoors. Common options include wet-location rated outdoor wall lights, such as those you’d use to illuminate patios and decks, and post lights, which light the path to your front and back doors. Wet-rated lights are used inside, too. Inside, they’re most commonly found in showers. Not all the lights in your bathroom need wet or damp ratings. Only the shower itself, where water might directly splash up toward the fixture, needs a light that’s rated for wet environments.

Some landscapes have outdoor hanging lights to illuminate areas, especially in places where people gather to relax. Because they come in direct contact with rain and snow, these lights also rely on wet-rated fixtures to protect themselves from moisture. Step lights have the same environmental requirements. If you install lights on the steps to your front door, you will need fixtures that stand up to rainwater and dew. You can use wet-location rated recessed lighting in many of these situations.

Party lights and ground-well lights also come in direct contact with water. That’s why they need specialized fixtures to seal out moisture. In general, wet-rated fixtures work in most unprotected outdoor areas, and they’re vital for any fixture that touches the ground.

What are Damp Rated Lights?

Damp-rated lights are used in places that have some contact with moisture, but not in areas with constant or direct exposure to water. These lights do not have the same full seals as lights made for wet environments, but they’re used in many situations around the home. You can use damp-location rated recessed lights to illuminate the area directly outside your shower or inside mixed-use storage closets.

Light fixtures with damp ratings are also commonly used in covered patios and porches, where partial enclosures protect them from rain and snow. These include recessed lights above doorways and outdoor wall lights that illuminate wider areas. Many outdoor ceiling lights are rated for damp environments, as are deck lights and pendant lights. Deck lights require damp-rated fixtures only in cases where the lights already have some form of protection. Decks without overhangs or other coverings need wet-rated lights instead.

Lights with damp ratings come in many styles, including vintage, retro and industrial-style lighting, so you can create all sorts of looks around your home. For example, you may choose to install industrial-style bronze lighting in the covered area outside your front door. In this case, you’d need damp-rated fixtures to give your entryway the desired vintage look.

The Importance of Damp and Wet Location Lighting

The main reason to use damp and wet-rated light fixtures is safety. Lights depend on electrical currents for power, and water serves as a conductor. When it comes in contact with electricity, water can cause fires or electrocution. That’s why it’s important to prevent moisture from building up inside the electrical parts of a light fixture.

Using properly-rated fixtures also ensures the longevity of the bulb. A damp-rated light installed in a wet environment may not work for long. The same applies to dry-rated lights in damp environments. Use the rating system to sustain the performance of the lights around your home. Properly rated bulbs allow you to install landscape and patio lighting in areas where dry-rated lights would not work.

When you want to install lighting around gardens and leisure areas, it’s important to use damp and wet-rated lights. These specific fixtures should suit the environment. Those in covered areas benefit from damp-rated fixtures, and those without covers, including those set directly against the ground, require wet ratings.

Your knowledge of wet and dry ratings will help you get the most value from your lights. These labels show you where you can install specific fixtures, so no moisture builds up inside. Make sure your fixtures are rated for the environments where you want to install them. There are plenty of modern, vintage and retro styles to choose from.

The outdoor light fixtures have to go through adverse weather conditions like dust, rain, wind, and more. In this case, considering whether you need a weatherproof light or one with waterproofing is essential. But in most cases, you may get confused between the two terms as they are often used synonymously. Therefore, knowing the difference is a must!

The main difference between weatherproof and waterproof is their degree of protection against moisture or water. Weatherproof fixtures resist dust, rain, water splash, UV rays, and other weather conditions. But they are not entirely sealed to use underwater. In contrast, waterproof lights have a more robust construction. They can resist water entrance inside, even when submerged. And so these lights are used inside swimming pools, boats, marine lighting, etc. 

In this article, I’ve compared weatherproof and waterproof light fixtures side-by-side to highlight their differences. This will surely help you choose the right one for your project. So, let’s begin the discussion- 

What Is Weatherproof?

Weatherproof lights refer to fixtures that can withstand usual weather conditions. These lights can resist rain, wind, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations. For these reasons, these lights are used for outdoor lighting. You can use them on the garden, patio, building facade, or outdoors in restaurants, shopping malls, hospitals, etc. They can bear water splash but aren’t suitable for submerged or prolonged exposure to water. So, you must not use them for fountains, pools, or other areas where fixtures continuously come in direct water contact. 

What Is Waterproof? 

Waterproof lights are completely sealed and protected from water and moisture content. These light fixtures have a higher IP rating. Waterproof lights are often used in industrial areas with higher moisture content. The worth-mentioning feature of these light fixtures is that they can withstand submerged water. So, the lights you see on swimming pools, fountains, and underwater areas are all waterproof fixtures. To learn more about waterproof lighting, check this- A Guide to Waterproof LED Strip Lights. 

Weatherproof Vs. Waterproof Light Fixture: The Differences 

The chart above has given you an idea about the differences between weatherproof and waterproof light. Below, I’ve discussed these facts more elaborate for your convenience-

1. Construction, Sealing, and Coating

Weatherproof light fixtures

Most of the weatherproof lights are dust-proof but not fully water-resistant. These fixtures have an outer covering that protects them from UV rays, rain, and dust. Aluminum, Copper, Brass, Zinc, etc. are the common materials used in these fixtures. 

Waterproof light fixtures

Waterproof fixtures come with a watertight construction. The main feature of these lights is that they do not let water enter the fixture. Thus, internal components of light remain safe when submerged under water. To give these lights such a construction, epoxy resin, PU glue, and silicon coating are used. Besides, the wires, connectors, and other comments must be made waterproof when installing these lights. This ensures the fixtures remain intact and can withstand water. 

2. Protection Level

Weatherproof light fixtures

These lights can resist rainfall, water splash, wind, dust, and other regular weather conditions. But when it comes to submerged or underwater lighting, the protection level of weatherproof fixtures is not up to mark. The water will eventually enter into the fixture and damage the bulb. 

Waterproof light fixtures

These light fixtures have a robust and tight-sealed construction that provides a greater degree of protection against moisture. Even if these light fixtures are installed underwater and come in moisture content 24/7, they will remain intact. Thus, waterproof light fixtures have a greater protection level than weatherproof light fixtures. 

3. Application

Weatherproof light fixtures

A light fixture’s application depends on the location’s environment. Weatherproof lights are mainly used for outdoor lighting in residential and commercial spaces. You can also use porch and entryway lighting, pathway, and landscape lighting. Besides, the light fixtures used as signage, i.e., neon signages, are also weatherproof. These lights can tolerate harsh environments and deal with continuous dust, wind, rainfall, and other natural weather conditions.  

Waterproof light fixtures

These fixtures are used in places where the light fixture needs to have direct contact with water continuously – for instance, swimming pools, marin, boat lighting, and other underwater lighting needs. Besides, lighting fixtures may need to go through heavy moisture content in the industrial sector. In this case, waterproof lighting is used in food manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and other similar industries. 

4. IP Rating 

Weatherproof light fixtures

IP rating determines the degree of protection against solid and liquid ingress. This is a two-digit number that ensures the fixture’s resistance against adverse environmental conditions. Weatherproof light fixtures have an IP rating of IP44 to IP66. You need to choose the right rating depending on the exposure of the light fixture to the external environment. The most common IP ratings used for weatherproof lighting are: 

• IP44: Light fixtures with these ratings can resist solid objects greater than 1mm in diameter and protect against splashing water from any direction. You can use these lights for general outdoor areas that are exposed to rain, dust, or light splashes.

• IP65: You can use an IP65-rated bulb in locations more exposed to rain and humidity. These fixtures are completely dust-sealed and can resist partial water jet protection at low pressure. Thus, IP65 lights are more robust than IP44.

• IP66: This rationing protects fixtures against dust and high-pressure water jets from any direction. You can use IP66 light fixtures in locations that face severe weather conditions and heavy rain.

Waterproof light fixtures

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Waterproof lights are completely sealed and have a higher IP rating than weatherproof ones. These lights are either IP67 or IP68. The application and level of protection of these ratings are as follows- 

• IP67: Offers limited-time protection against dust and immersion in up to 1 meter of water (typically 30 minutes). You can use fixtures with this IP rating for underwater lighting or in damp and submerged areas.

• IP68: Protects against dust and continuous immersion in water up to a depth of one meter. Fixtures used in deepwater applications require this degree of protection.

Check this IP Rating: The Definitive Guide to learn detailed ideas on IP ratings.

5. Installation Considerations

Weatherproof light fixtures

You must consider the height, angle, and accessibility when installing weatherproof lights outdoors. As these lights face continuous wind flows and rainfall, make sure to strengthen the installation. For this, you can use brackets or take other precautions. Besides, you should also make sure the fixtures don’t get overheated. So, keep enough facilities for ventilation and choose a fixture with a heatsink. 

Waterproof light fixtures

As waterproof lights face direct contact with water, a proper installation is a must to ensure safety. You must check the voltage ratings and usage of proper cables. A waterproof fixture is not enough; you must seal the installation to resist water or moisture entrance. Use waterproof connectors, fittings, and conduits at the joining points. For instance, if you are using a waterproof LED strip light, cutting it will no longer keep it sealed. In this case, you must use heat shrink tubes and seal the ends using silicon glue. This will make them filled and thus protect electrical wiring from water exposure.

6. Price 

Weatherproof light fixtures

Weatherproof lights are available in different price ranges based on the material, quality, fixture type, and brand. Besides, many manufacturers provide customizable weatherproof fixtures; in this case, the price may increase. 

Waterproof light fixtures

Waterproof lights have a more robust structure than weatherproof ones. They use special materials like epoxy coating to seal the fixture. And all these make these lights more expensive. The waterproof fixtures that use epoxy resin are more affordable than the ones with PU glue. However, silicon fixtures are the most expensive ones.

Which Weatherproofing Or Waterproofing Level Do You Need For Your Lighting Project?

The extent of protection you require for your lighting project depends on several factors. Considering the location, environmental exposure, level of contact with liquid/water, etc., to find the right fixture. Below, I’m adding two essential facts to consider:

• Consider the purpose of the light fixture

If you need one for general outdoor residential or commercial lighting, weatherproof lighting will work well. But in industrial areas where the fixtures go through heavy moisture, vapor, and oil content, waterproofing is a must. Besides air and water-sealed features, you should also consider safety features for the light fixtures of these locations. In this case, tri-proof lights are resistant to water, air, and corrosion. 

• Contact with water & outer environment

Remember, weatherproof lights are not designed to have continuous water contact. If you install the fixture in an area where the light will face water splashes from rain, it’s okay to use weatherproof lights. But if you are installing light fixtures where it will remain submerged, go for waterproof lighting. For instance, if your project is on boat lighting, you will need waterproof lights for underwater lighting. But weatherproof light is good to go if you want interior boat lighting that is exposed to the outer environment. 

Therefore, by analyzing the lighting needs and the environmental conditions, you should choose the best for your project- weatherproof or waterproof lights. 

How To Install Weatherproof & Waterproof Light LED Strip Lights?

Installing a weatherproof LED strip is simple: get the strip, cut it into the required size, remove the adhesive backing, and paste it to the surface of your installation. Power the lights up, and it’s all done. You can easily install weatherproof LED strip lighting by following this guide- How To Install And Use LED Strip Lights?

However, installing waterproof LED strip lights is a matter to discuss. These strips’ construction is different from the waterproof ones as they have a silicon or epoxy resin coating. So when you cut these strips, the water resistance is no longer effective. Therefore, you must get into some extra steps and materials for installing waterproof LED strips. I am adding the process below- 

Step 1: Gather the required materials 

Before stepping directly into the installation procedure, you should collect the necessary materials. Here are the things that you will need:

• Silicon tube waterproof LED strip lights 
• Wire connectors
• Soldering iron
• Silicone glue
• Silicon end cap ( with and without hole)
• Power supply

However, in choosing waterproof LED strip lights, always look for a reliable brand. Remember, these lights will come into direct contact with water; therefore, a wrong choice can be risky. You must consider the certification of the light brand to ensure they are of good quality. Go through this article to learn about the must-have certificates for LED strip lights- The Certification of LED Strip Lights. 

Step 2: Prepare the location 

Make sure the place is clean and dry enough to install the lighting. It is essential to keep the surface dry to ensure the adhesive backing seats properly. Once the installation is done, you can run it through water; there is nothing to worry about as they are waterproof LED strips. 

Step 3: Cut the LED Strips to the required size & seal them with glue

Cut the silicon tube waterproof LED strip lights to the required size. Make sure to follow the cutting marks while doing this procedure. Now, remove a bit of adhesive backing from the back of the strip and fill the silicon glue in it. Pour some glue inside the silicon end cap and attach it to the cutting end of the strip. 

Step 4: Soldering 

Go to the other end of the LED strip and cut a bit of the silicon tube to get direct access to the strip components. Now, tint the LED strip pad and the cables using a soldering iron, and solder the cable on the LED strip. 

Step 5: Fit the end cap

Next, pass the silicon end cap with a hole through the cables. Remove the adhesive backing near the endpoints, add some glue, and set the end cap into the strip just as you did for the other end.  

Step 6: Mount the fixture

Once your strip light is done with soldering and wiring, it’s time for installation. You can simply go for the adhesive backing or use clips to strengthen the installation. This guide will help you with mounting techniques-  Installing LED Flex Strips: Mounting Techniques.

Step 7: Light Up

Finally, connect the LED strip to the power source, and it will light up. In this entire procedure, make sure all the joints are sealed properly to maintain waterproofing. 

Tips for Using Weatherproof & Waterproof Light

Here are some tips for maintaining and using weatherproof and waterproof light fixtures- 

• Consider the IP rating by analyzing the environment of your fixture installation. IP44 is okay in some cases; in other places, it might need IP66 or higher. It always gets what you need. Remember, higher IP-rated lights are expensive. So, installing them where not necessary is a waste of money. 

• Consider LED strips with epoxy resin coating if you want affordable waterproof light. Going for silicon LED strip lights can be very expensive. But these are better than the epoxy ones.

• Always ensure the joints and connection of the waterproof fixture are sealed to resist moisture or water from getting into the light. Use silicon glue or heat-shrinking tubes for LED strip lights. This will keep the fixture watertight once you cut it. 

• Check the voltage rating of the light fixture to ensure it matches the power supply. As waterproof lights are usually used for underwater lighting, low-voltage fixtures like LED strips are the safest option. Besides, the wirings you use for such installation should also be waterproof or marine-graded. 

• If you find the installation of light fixtures tricky, usually the waterproof ones, consult a professional. However, read this guide to ensure proper installation if you choose LED strip lights for your project- 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing LED Strip Lighting.

FAQs

The Bottom Line

Before choosing between weatherproof and waterproof lights, you must analyze the environmental facts. If you need underwater lighting, go for waterproof light fixtures. These lights have higher IP ratings that keep them completely sealed. In contrast, for locations that don’t need higher water resistance, a weatherproof light fixture will work okay. These lights will be safe under regular weather conditions like rain, wind, dust, fluctuating temperatures, etc. But, if the location is prone to flood, use a waterproof fixture.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Explosion-proof LED Lighting Fixture.