IP45 Rainproof vs IP67 Waterproof LED Power Supplies for Outdoor Signs

Decode the two digits correctly

In the IEC 60529 IP code, the first digit describes protection against access and solid foreign objects, and the second describes water ingress protection under specified tests. IP45 means first digit 4 (protection against solid objects of at least 1mm) and second digit 5 (water jets). IP67 means first digit 6 (dust-tight enclosure) and second digit 7 (temporary immersion under specified conditions).

IP45 should not be described as “dust-tight”; the 4 does not claim that. IP67 is also not a promise of unlimited underwater service, pressure washing, resistance to every chemical or protection of an unsealed external connector. Read the model’s own instructions for orientation, cable entry, allowable temperatures and actual use.

What “rainproof” should mean in a specification

Treat rainproof as a descriptive word, then verify the actual IP marking and manufacturer’s permitted mounting. A sheltered fascia cavity can still collect condensation or channel water along cables. A directly exposed wall position may receive wind-driven rain, pooling, UV and regular cleaning. An IP number alone cannot tell you whether a particular installation will survive those conditions.

An FSK IP45 supply may be suitable in a protected installation when its instructions, ventilation and the full enclosure design support that choice. Do not interpret the term as permission to expose live terminals or mount a ventilated unit where water accumulates. For persistent exposure, compare a model specifically suitable for that location, often with a higher enclosure rating.

When an IP67 model may be the better choice

An IP67-rated supply can be a sensible choice when its enclosure is more directly exposed and the manufacturer permits the intended mounting. Glowfy lists IP67 models in its driver collection. Their voltage, output current, temperature limits, cable arrangement and warranty differ by model; match these as carefully as the IP rating.

A potted or highly sealed driver can still overheat in an unventilated cavity, and its cable joint can still fail if badly made. More ingress protection does not erase the need for correct electrical design or make the entire installation IP67. Avoid paying for a rating that cannot be realised because the weakest joint remains exposed.

A site survey checklist for a UK shopfront

Mark likely water paths, drainage points, wall fixings, cleaning methods and sun exposure. Identify a location where the driver remains accessible without obstructing the sign face. Check whether the unit needs free air around it and whether the manufacturer allows its orientation. Keep it away from standing water and protect entries against water tracking down a cable.

Plan mains isolation and cable segregation according to the installation design. Use suitable glands, junction boxes and strain reliefs as specified; avoid improvising with an unprotected splice inside a damp return. Have mains-side work completed by a competent person and follow the applicable UK electrical requirements.

• Is the driver directly exposed, sheltered, or inside a verified dry compartment?
• Can wind-driven rain or condensation reach the terminals?
• Do cables enter from a direction that lets water track into the enclosure?
• Are case temperature, clearance and service access acceptable?
• Are every joint and connected LED product suitable for their own exposure?

Three practical placement scenarios

Scenario 1: a dry indoor display cabinet with ventilation and service access may not need an IP67 driver merely because the modules themselves are IP65 or IP68. Select by the actual location and product instructions. Scenario 2: a protected outdoor fascia compartment can be considered for an IP45 FSK only after checking that rain and condensation will not reach critical openings or connections and that the model is installed as specified.

Scenario 3: a driver mounted in a location subject to direct rain needs a model whose manufacturer supports that exposure, suitable mounting and properly protected cable junctions. An IP67 enclosure may help, but do not claim the sign is IP67 without assessing the entire assembly. If pressure washing is expected, specifically check the relevant jet rating and instructions; IPX7 alone does not establish IPX5 or IPX6 behaviour for every design.

Commissioning and long-term inspection

Before handover, document the product label and IP marking, photograph mounting and joints, and test the sign under full electrical load. Measure output voltage at the remote LED branch and compare the supply’s case temperature with its specified limit. Confirm drainage and access. Do not create an ad hoc water-jet test on a live installation; use the stated rating and proper installation method.

At maintenance visits, look for corrosion, damaged cable sheaths, failed seals, water staining, loose joints and blocked ventilation. A flickering sign may have a driver fault, a wet connection, voltage drop or an overloaded branch; diagnose systematically before changing the supply.