Flood lights are powerful and versatile lighting fixtures that can illuminate large areas with bright and even light. They are commonly used for outdoor security, landscaping, sports, or entertainment purposes. However, flood lights are also exposed to various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or humidity, that can affect their performance and durability. In this article, we will answer the main question: how to protect your flood lights from water damage? We will also provide some background information on flood lights and their uses, explain the difference between types of flood lights and their water resistance ratings, describe the risks and consequences of water getting into flood lights, and give some tips and tricks to protect flood lights from water. Types of Flood Lights and Their Water Resistance Ratings
Flood lights are classified into three types based on their water resistance ratings: dry-rated, damp-rated, and wet-rated. These ratings indicate how well the flood lights can withstand different levels of moisture and where they can be installed. Dry-rated flood lights are designed for indoor use only and should not be exposed to any moisture or water. They are suitable for areas that are dry and well-ventilated, such as living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. Damp-rated flood lights are designed for indoor or outdoor use in areas that are not directly exposed to water, but may experience some moisture or humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or covered porches. They are resistant to mildew and corrosion, but not waterproof. Wet-rated flood lights are designed for outdoor use in areas that are directly exposed to water, such as gardens, pools, or fountains. They are waterproof and can withstand rain, snow, or splashes. To choose the right type of Flood Light for your needs, you should consider the location and the purpose of the lighting. For example, if you want to install flood lights in your backyard to illuminate your patio or lawn, you should opt for wet-rated flood lights that can handle the outdoor weather conditions. On the other hand, if you want to install flood lights in your garage or basement to provide extra lighting, you should opt for dry-rated or damp-rated flood lights that can work in indoor environments. Risks and Consequences of Water Getting into Flood Lights
Water getting into flood lights that are not rated for wet conditions can cause serious problems and hazards. Some of the risks and consequences of water getting into flood lights are: Electric shock
Water can conduct electricity and create a short circuit in the flood light wiring or socket. This can result in electric shock to anyone who touches the flood light or the switch, or even start a fire. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 200 people die each year from electrocution in the home. Fire
Water can also cause overheating or sparks in the flood light components, such as the light bulb, the ballast, or the transformer. This can ignite the flood light or the surrounding materials, such as wood, plastic, or fabric. According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical failures or malfunctions were the second leading cause of home fires in the U.S. in 2019, accounting for 13% of home fires and 18% of home fire deaths. Damage
Water can also damage the flood light itself, reducing its lifespan and efficiency. Water can corrode the metal parts, crack the glass or plastic parts, or cause the light bulb to burn out or explode. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, replacing a 60-watt incandescent bulb with a 15-watt LED bulb can save you about $75 over the bulb's lifetime. Therefore, it is important to prevent water from getting into flood lights or to deal with it as soon as possible if it happens.
Tips and Tricks to Protect Flood Lights from Water
Here are some practical advice on how to protect your flood lights from water damage: Choose the right type of flood light
As mentioned earlier, you should choose the type of flood light that matches the water resistance rating of the area where you want to install it. Dry-rated flood lights for indoor use, damp-rated flood lights for indoor or outdoor use in areas with some moisture, and wet-rated flood lights for outdoor use in areas with direct water exposure. Seal the flood light
You can also seal the flood light with silicone or other waterproof materials to prevent water from entering the gaps or holes in the fixture. This can help you extend the life of your flood light and improve its performance. However, you should be careful not to seal the ventilation holes that are meant to release heat and prevent overheating. Cover the flood light
You can also cover the flood light with a plastic or metal shield or a waterproof fabric to protect it from rain, snow, or splashes. This can also help you reduce the glare and direct the light to the desired area. However, you should make sure that the cover does not block the light completely or create a fire hazard. Position the flood light
You can also position the flood light in a way that minimizes the exposure to water. For example, you can install the flood light under a roof, a canopy, or a tree, or angle the flood light downward or sideways to avoid water accumulation. However, you should also consider the lighting effect and the safety of the installation. Conclusion
In conclusion, flood lights are powerful and versatile lighting fixtures that can illuminate large areas with bright and even light. However, they are also exposed to various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or humidity, that can affect their performance and durability. To protect your flood lights from water damage, you should choose the right type of flood light for your needs, seal the flood light with waterproof materials, cover the flood light with a shield or a fabric, and position the flood light in a way that minimizes the exposure to water. By following these tips and tricks, you can enjoy the benefits of flood lights without worrying about the risks and consequences of water getting into them. Do you have any questions or comments about this article? Do you want to learn more about flood lights or other lighting topics? Please feel free to contact us or visit our website for more information. We are always happy to help you with your lighting needs. If you need to purchase lamps in bulk, please contact us.WOSEN is a professional manufacturer and supplier of Led Flood Light, Led Street Light, Led Solar Light, etc. For more information, please visit https://www.wosenled.com/ or contact admin@wosenled.com or WhatsApp +86-13425434349
