The short answer
An IP20 power supply belongs in a suitably protected dry location or enclosure that meets the installation requirements. For a directly exposed outdoor position, choose a model whose documented IP rating and mounting instructions suit the expected rain, spray or temporary flooding. IP65 protects against dust and jets; IP67 covers temporary immersion under test conditions. IP68 conditions must be specified by the manufacturer. The connections and enclosure still need their own protection.
How to read the two IP digits
The IP code is defined by IEC 60529. The first numeral describes protection against access to hazardous parts and entry of solid objects, including dust. The second describes protection against water under particular test conditions. A higher second digit is not a general promise of indefinite outdoor life.
IP20 provides protection against specified solid objects but has no water-ingress protection. IP65 is dust-tight and tested against water jets. IP67 is dust-tight and tested against temporary immersion. For IP68, the immersion conditions are agreed or declared for the product, so read the exact depth and duration in the datasheet. A rating of IPX8 does not automatically establish performance under every other type of water exposure.
Match the rating to the mounting position
Inside a dry, suitably rated service enclosure, an IP20 driver may be appropriate if the enclosure, access and thermal conditions meet the driver instructions. A sign cabinet can collect condensation or water even when it appears sheltered, so inspect drainage, cable entries and real exposure rather than assuming “inside the sign” means dry.
On a wall or frame directly exposed to rain, specify an outdoor-suitable driver and complete connection system for that position. In a location where water can pool, reconsider the mounting point; an IP67 marking does not make standing-water exposure a good design choice. Keep the unit accessible for inspection and replacement.
The weakest connection determines the real protection
A rated driver housing can coexist with unprotected terminal blocks, ordinary connectors or a cable entry facing upwards. The finished assembly will not have the protection implied by the driver label alone. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for glands, junction boxes, sealing and mounting orientation.
Do not bury connectors in sealant as an improvised substitute for a suitable rated junction. Prevent water travelling along a cable into a housing, avoid sharp edges and ensure that any field-made joint can be inspected. Check that the LED strip or module and every cut end are also suitable for the location.
IP rating and heat must be considered together
A sealed driver still generates heat. Its wattage and lifetime ratings can depend on ambient temperature and mounting position. A hot, tightly packed fascia can make a nominally suitable unit operate outside its permitted conditions. Read the temperature derating curve and ventilation clearance in the exact product datasheet.
Plan where the mains-side work can be performed safely by a competent person. Isolate before inspection and follow the manufacturer’s earthing and protective-device requirements.
Practical selection table
These are starting points, not substitutes for an assessment of the actual site and product.
| Position | Consider | Additional check |
|---|---|---|
| Dry indoor electrical space | Driver specified for that protected environment | Enclosure, ventilation and access |
| Inside a sheltered sign cabinet | Water exposure may still occur | Condensation, drainage and cable entries |
| Directly weather-exposed location | Outdoor-rated driver suitable for expected water exposure | Glands, joints and manufacturer mounting instructions |
| Area at risk of pooled water | Relocate driver where practical | Immersion conditions and electrical safety |
Before closing the outdoor sign
Photograph the location and keep the driver datasheet with the project record.
- Confirm the exact driver IP code and any specific immersion or jet test conditions.
- Check mains and DC terminations, enclosures, glands, connectors and strip cut ends.
- Check mounting orientation, drainage, accessibility, operating temperature and derating.
- Test the complete sign after installation and after sealing work is complete.
Frequently asked questions
Is IP20 suitable for a driver inside an outdoor sign?
Only if a suitable enclosure genuinely protects the driver from water and condensation and the complete installation meets its instructions. Being inside a fascia alone is not enough.
Does an IP67 driver make the sign IP67?
No. Cable connections, LED products, cut ends and the sign enclosure have their own protection requirements.
Is IP68 always better for a power supply?
No. Choose for actual exposure, manufacturer-specified conditions, temperature, maintenance and correct installation of all connections.
Technical references
Use the current datasheet for the exact product you install. These manufacturer and standards resources explain the general principles.
Planning a professional LED installation?
Browse Glowfy power supplies, or send our Birmingham team the load specification and installation details for product guidance.