What are Wet, Damp, Indoor, and Outdoor Ratings?

 

Wet and damp location ratings for LED luminaires indicate their suitability for installation in environments where they may be exposed to moisture or humidity.

A “damp location” rated luminaire can be used in areas with elevated humidity levels but not directly exposed to water, such as above a bathroom vanity.

A “wet location” rating means the luminaire can safely be used in areas where it may come into direct contact with water, such as outdoor areas exposed to rain or indoor spaces such as showers. Nora’s wet location luminaires are tested to be suitable for use in indoor wet location and outdoor covered-ceiling environments where it’s constructed to prevent accumulation of water to electrical components not identified for use in contact with water.

 

An indoor-rated luminaire is designed for use in controlled, dry, and sheltered indoor spaces like homes, offices, and commercial buildings. They are not equipped to withstand exposure to elevated moisture, extreme temperatures, physical impacts, or significant UV exposure. In contrast, outdoor-rated luminaires are built to endure the rigors of the outdoors, with features that protect against water, dust, and temperature variations. In addition, these luminaires are typically constructed with more durable and UV-resistant materials to avoid physical and UV degradation over time.