As a leading manufacturer of stage lighting equipment, we understand the importance of durability and reliability in live performances. Whether your lights are used indoors, outdoors, or in extreme environments, waterproof ratings (IP ratings) determine their resistance to moisture and liquids.
In this guide, we’ll break down the different IP waterproof ratings for stage lighting and help you choose the right fixtures for your needs.
What Are IP Waterproof Ratings?
The Ingress Protection (IP) rating (based on IEC 60529) classifies how well a lighting fixture resists dust and water. For stage lights, the second digit in the IPXX code indicates waterproofing levels.
Key Waterproof Ratings for Stage Lights
| IP Rating | Protection Level | Ideal Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| IPX0 | No waterproofing | Indoor dry environments (theaters, studios) |
| IPX3 | Resists light spray (60° angle) | Indoor stages with fog/haze effects |
| IPX4 | Splash-proof (any direction) | Outdoor festivals, temporary setups |
| IPX5 | Water jet-resistant (12.5L/min) | Rainy outdoor events, fountain shows |
| IPX6 | Strong water jet-resistant (100L/min) | Heavy rain, water-based performances |
| IPX7 | Submersible (1m depth, 30min) | Pool shows, underwater lighting |
| IPX8 | Continuous underwater use | Permanent underwater installations |
| IPX9K | High-pressure, high-temperature wash | Industrial-grade cleaning & extreme conditions |
Choosing the Right Waterproof Stage Lights
1. Indoor Use (IPX0 – IPX3)
- Best for: Theaters, concert halls, studios
- Recommended fixtures: Beam lights, moving heads, PAR cans
- Why? Minimal water exposure, but may need protection from condensation or fog machines.
2. Outdoor & Temporary Events (IPX4 – IPX6)
- Best for: Music festivals, open-air stages, rain effects
- Recommended fixtures: IP65-rated LED wash lights, weatherproof lasers
- Why? Resists rain, splashes, and accidental spills.
3. Water & Extreme Environments (IPX7 – IPX9K)
- Best for: Water shows, swimming pools, industrial stages
- Recommended fixtures: Submersible LED bars, underwater strobes
- Why? Fully sealed against prolonged water exposure.
Maintenance Tips for Waterproof Stage Lights
- Check seals regularly – Silicone gaskets can degrade over time.
- Avoid high-pressure cleaning – Unless rated IPX6+.
- Store properly – Keep fixtures dry when not in use to prevent corrosion.
Why Trust Our Waterproof Stage Lighting?
As a professional manufacturer, we design our IP-rated stage lights with:
✔ Robust sealing (silicone gaskets, corrosion-resistant materials)
✔ Rigorous testing (simulated rain, submersion, and pressure tests)
✔ Long-term durability – Ideal for touring, festivals, and permanent installations.
