Maytown | Flashlight Waterproof Rating 101

Why a Waterproof LED Torch?

Unsurprisingly, you might need a flashlight that can withstand wet conditions. Whether caught in a rainstorm or accidentally dropping your torch light in a puddle, you must know what weather (or water) your flashlight can tolerate.

Most flashlights will have an IP rating for "ingress protection." This rating is a two-digit code that indicates the level of protection against solid objects (the first digit) and liquids (the second digit).

For example:

A torch light with an IP rating of IPX4 is protected against splashing from all directions, but it is not waterproof.
Flashlights with an IP rating of IPX7 can withstand immersion for 30 minutes in water up to one meter deep without losing functionality.

If you're looking for a great waterproof flashlight, we recommend the Maytown Tactical Lights. With a rating of IPX-8, the torch can withstand being submerged in up to two meters of water for up to 30 minutes. It's also made from durable aircraft-grade aluminum.

The Difference Between a Waterproof, Water-Repellent, And Water-Resistant Flashlight

Water-resistant

A led torch light is said to be water-resistant if it can partially withstand water penetration. These flashlights can withstand a certain amount of heavy splashing and rain but should not be submerged completely.

Water-resistant flashlights are essential for many outdoor activities, from camping and hiking to fishing and boating.

Many models are now designed with an IPX rating, which indicates the level of protection against water and dust.

The higher the IPX rating, the more resistant the flashlight will be. When shopping for a water-resistant flashlight, always check the IPX rating to ensure that it meets your needs.

Waterproof

When choosing a flash light, it is essential to consider what environment a flashlight will be used. If there is any chance that the light may become submerged in water, it is important to choose a waterproof model.

Waterproof flashlights are designed to resist water penetration at a specified depth for a certain amount of time. They can be used confidently in environments with a risk of flooding or submersion.

Look for waterproof flashlights certified to meet international standards for peace of mind. With this type of flashlight, you can be confident that it will continue to work even if it does become submerged.

Water-repellent

Water-repellent items make it difficult for water to seep into the material and generally include a water repellent coating on the surface.

Water-repellent is a term that is more often used with backpacks and luggage.

Water-resistant products are designed to withstand occasional exposure to water.

This might include items like watches or electronic devices that are not meant to be submerged but can handle a little splashing.

Ingress Protection Standards

When purchasing a led torch light, paying attention to the IP or Ingress Protection rating is essential. This internationally recognized standard measures electrical equipment's solid and liquid protection. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has adopted this standard, making it easy for consumers to purchase products confidently.

Two digits make up IP ratings, with the first indicating the level of protection against solids and the second indicating the level of protection against liquids. For example, a flash light with an IP rating of IP67 would be protected against dust and sand and against being submerged in water up to one meter for 30 minutes. When choosing a flashlight, make sure to pay attention to the IP rating to ensure that it will be able to withstand exposure to the elements.

First Number: Protection from Solids

IP ratings evaluate the level of protection that a given product offers against the ingress of solid objects and liquids.
The rating system is comprised of two numbers, with the first indicating the level of protection against solids and the second indicating the level of protection against liquids.
On a scale of 0 to 6, with 6 being the highest level of security, the first number corresponds to the size of particulate that is protected against.
For example, a product with a rating of 6 will be fully protected from all solid objects, regardless of size. In contrast, a product with a rating of 0 offers no protection against solid ingress.
It is important to note that the highest level of security is not always necessary; for many applications, a lower level of protection will suffice.
When choosing a product, it is vital to consider the application's specific needs to ensure that an adequate level of security is provided.

Second Number: Protection from Liquids

For many individuals, the second digit of an IP rating for a flashlight is the most crucial. This number rates the degree of water resistance on a scale of 0 to 8, with 8 being the highest.
Products rated as impervious will have the highest number, but even these have limits. Manufacturers will list these limits so that consumers can make an informed decision.
When choosing a led torch light, it is important to consider how it will be used and what level of protection is needed.
For example, suppose the flashlight will be used in an area with a lot of moisture. In that case, a higher degree of water resistance is necessary.
On the other hand, if the flashlight will be used in a dry environment, a lower degree of water resistance may be sufficient.
The customer must ultimately determine the appropriate amount of protection.

Why are IP ratings important?

IPX4

To be classified as water-resistant, a product must have an IPX4 rating. It can withstand 10 minutes of water splashing and spraying, equivalent to heavy sweating and moderate rainy weather conditions.

However, using the product while showering is not advisable, as the water pressure from a showerhead could be too much for the product to handle. The product is not designed to be used underwater, so it will not survive if submerged.

Finally, while an IPX4-rated product can withstand light and moderate rain, heavy rain could be too much for the product to handle.

IPX5

The IPX5 designation means a torch light is protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction. This is similar to the IPX4 test, only with higher water pressure.

This rating is significant for flashlights used in outdoor environments, as they are more likely to be exposed to elements like rain and snow.

Led Lights with this rating can resist minor splashing and spraying, making them ideal for use in patio and deck lighting and landscape lighting.

When shopping for outdoor lights, look for ones with an IPX5 rating to ensure they stand up to the elements.

IPX6

The IPX6 rating on a flash light signifies that it has been tested to resist high-pressure water jets hitting the light from any direction. This is similar to the IPX5 test, with higher pressure water jets.

A light with an IPX6 rating can be an excellent choice for use in outdoor areas with a risk of water damage, such as near pools or coastal regions.

However, it is essential to note that the IPX6 rating only applies to the light and not to any attached cords or plugs.

If you are using a light with an IPX6 rating in an area with a risk of water damage, it is vital to take precautions to protect any cords or plugs from exposure to water.

IPX7

IPX7 waterproof means the flashlight can be fully immersed in water up to 1 meter (40 inches) depth for at least 30 minutes.

This is an excellent characteristic if you are looking for a flashlight to take with you on your next camping trip or hike.

The IPX7 rating also means that the flashlight is protected against dust and other particles, making it ideal for any environment.

Whether looking for a flashlight for outdoor activities or backpacking, the IPX7 rating ensures that your flashlight will be up for the task.

IPX8

One of the most important things to look for when choosing a flashlight is its ingress protection rating. This will determine how well the flashlight can withstand being exposed to external elements like dust and water.

The number "8" instead of an X indicates that the item has been subjected to rigorous testing for water resistance. This implies that the equipment hasn't received a rating for solid ingress protection, but this doesn't imply there isn't any protection.

A waterproof flashlight with an IPX8 rating can be submerged in water up to 2 meters (6.6 ft) for 30 minutes without any issues.

Flashlight Waterproof Rating