How to Choose Waterproof LED Strip Lights

How to identify if an LED strip light is waterproof?

1. Check the IP rating: The two-digit International Protection (IP) rating shows dust and water resistance. The first digit protects against dust, and the second against water. Higher number means greater device protection. Look for LED strip lights with an IP rating of at least 65 to protect them from water jets and heavy rain.

2. Check the coating: Silicone or epoxy resin protects waterproof LED strip lights' circuitry from water damage. Clear coating is seen on the LED strip. Uncoated LED strips aren't waterproof.

3. Check connections: Waterproof LED strip lights usually include waterproof connectors. Rubber or silicone seals prevent water from accessing these connections. The connections must be sealed for LED strip lights to be waterproof.

4. Read the product description: Before buying LED strip lights, read the description. If the product claims to be waterproof, it should include its IP rating and water protection. Waterproofing is unlikely if the product description doesn't mention it.
 

• IP20 essentially indicates that it is not waterproof, implying that you should not use it inside where it may get wet with water.
• IP65 and IP66 imply that it is semi-waterproof, which means you may wash it but not immerse it in water on a regular basis.
• The IP67 rating implies that it is waterproof; you may submerge it in water for a brief length of time outside.
• IP68 signifies a greater degree of waterproofing and the ability to submerge it in water for extended periods of time.

When do you need a waterproof light strip? 

Inside, the waterproofing feature is mostly optional if you want to use LED strip lights as background illumination in your living room, bedroom, or around furniture. Another alternative is to purchase non-waterproof LED strip lights directly, which will save you money. If you want to install strip lights in your bathroom, kitchen or other rooms where water splashes are common, we recommend choosing those with an IP65 protection certification. If you're wondering if you should get strip lights with IP67 or even IP68 protection, I'd say no, unless you need to immerse the light in water all the time, which is seldom the case inside.

We recommend that you purchase strip lights with the highest protection rating, IP68, if you want to put them in a swimming pool, fish tank, or other sites that are immediately immersed in water, or if you intend to install them outside in areas that are exposed to the weather. They may be able to withstand prolonged exposure to heavy rain. You may also purchase LED strip lights with a lower level of protection if they are outdoors but have covers and will not be immersed in water for a lengthy period of time.

How to Install Waterproof LED Strip Lights

Install weatherproof LED strip lights using these easy steps.
1. Measure the light installation area. Measure the area's length and breadth, taking into account pillars and stairs.
2. Choose waterproof LED strip lights that meet your demands. Choose waterproof, lengthy strips to light up the area and protect them from rain and dampness.
3. Clean the place where you'll put strip lights. Wipe dust and dirt with a clean cloth.
4. Cut strip lights to the necessary length to illuminate the area. Cutting strip lights without breaking them requires sharp scissors.
5. Tape or clip the strip lights to the surface. Secure the strip lights to the surface and position them evenly.
6. Power and switch on the strip lights. Check the lights' functionality.
7. Add accessories to improve light output or installation aesthetics. You may also control lights from your phone using remotes or applications.
 

Understanding the IP Protection Level

There are two numbers for IP protection levels. The light's degree of dustproofing and resistance to foreign object penetration is indicated by the first number. The degree of moisture proofing and airtightness of the lamp in preventing water infiltration is indicated by the second number. Its degree of protection increases with the number.