Ingress-Protected Light Fixtures for Wet Location and Submersible Applications

Wet location lighting refers to lighting fixtures that are specifically designed and rated for use in areas where they will be exposed to direct water contact, such as rain, snow, or splashing water.

Wet location lighting refers to lighting fixtures that are specifically designed and rated for use in areas where they will be exposed to direct water contact, such as rain, snow, or splashing water. These fixtures are built to withstand moisture and weather conditions to ensure safety and longevity in environments that involve consistent exposure to water. Wet location-rated lighting is essential for outdoor and indoor applications where water or moisture is present, such as fountains and pools.

Wet location lighting like the SBL-MIX and the HP-SUBMERSIBLE are rated this way to ensure that the electrical components of the fixture are protected against water infiltration. The rating ensures that the fixture can operate safely without short-circuiting or causing electrical hazards when exposed to wet conditions. This rating is part of safety standards established by organizations like UL (Underwriters Laboratories), which certifies products based on their performance under specific environmental conditions.

What Makes a Fixture Wet Location Rated

Waterproof Sealing: Wet-rated fixtures are tightly sealed to prevent water from entering the electrical components. This includes gaskets, seals, or special enclosures that block water penetration.
Durable Materials: Wet-rated fixtures are typically made from materials that resist corrosion, such as stainless steel, powder-coated aluminum, plastic, or rubber, to withstand constant exposure to moisture.
Protected Electrical Components: The electrical wiring and internal components are encased to ensure no moisture can interfere with their functionality.

Wet Location IP Ratings

Wet location fixtures often have an Ingress Protection (IP) rating, which specifies protection against solid objects (like dust) and water. An IP rating of IP65, IP66, or higher indicates that the fixture is waterproof and can handle water jets, heavy rain, or even submersion (in some cases).

Applications for Wet Location Lighting

Outdoor Spaces: Fixtures used in outdoor areas like patios, porches, decks, gardens, driveways, and pathways are often exposed to rain, snow, and humidity.
Landscape Lighting: Ground-level lights in gardens, along pathways, or near water features require wet location ratings to handle rain or irrigation water.
Bathrooms and Showers: Wet-rated fixtures ensure safety in indoor settings like bathrooms or pool areas, where lighting fixtures may come in direct contact with water splashes or steam.
Pool and Fountain Lighting: Fixtures installed near or underwater in swimming pools, fountains, or ponds must be rated for wet locations (or even submersible ratings, depending on placement).