Can You Use Party Lights Outside? A Guide to IP Ratings & Outdoor Safety
Are outdoor party lights safe? Are waterproofing party lights really rain-proof?
If you are thinking of using party lights in your backyard, outdoor venue or in any other application where it can be exposed to the elements, you are likely worried about the risk of damage or safety posted by your choice of lighting.
Here at DJ City, we stock a wide range of affordable, effective and completely safe waterproof party lights that are perfect for any occasion.
Are Outdoor Party Lights Safe?
Yes, the right outdoor party lights are completely safe in the rain.
It is important however to:
- Purchase reputable brands of outdoor party lights
- Buy party lights from a known supplier
- Check the IP-rating of your outdoor gear
What is an IP-rating?
IP stands for: Ingress Protection.
It is an international classification code that tells you how well the electrical enclosure of the lighting equipment, or other product, is protected against solid objects (such as dust) and liquid (like rain).
For party lights, this is the big difference between indoor‑only light fixtures and weather‑resistant outdoor party lights.
What Are the Different IP Ratings and Which Are Safe for Outdoor Party Lights?
1. IP20: Indoor lights only
An IP rating of IP20 indicates indoor-use only.
The 2 indicates that the electrical equipment has basic protection against fingers and medium‑sized objects. The 0 means it does not have protection against water (or dust). If exposed to rain or water, the live components and electronics can be damaged and there may even be a risk of shock and injury upon contact.
Examples of typical lighting with an IP20 rating:
- Disco balls
- Cheap pars
- Lounge, bar or stage effect lighting
2. IP20: Outdoor party lights
An IP-rating of IP65 indicates that the lighting is safe for use outdoors. The 6 refers to the protection from dust, whilst the 5 indicates that it is insulated from low-pressure water from any direction. This is why IP65 lights are the right choice for outdoor gigs and parties.
It offers full protection from light rain, splashes, hose mist, dew, and even damp coastal air.
It is ideal for use:
- On patios
- In gardens
- Along driveways
- With marquee exteriors
- Or as building washes.
If you need waterproof party lights, make sure any fixture under consideration is labelled IP65 as well as weatherproof and suitable for outdoor use.
Can You Use Indoor Lights Outside With an Extension Cord?
Using indoor lights outside and running an extension cord is neither safe nor smart.
It is one of the more common DIY mistakes and it contributes to the nervousness surrounding outdoor party lights’ electrocution and damage risks.
- Indoor lights have open vents, exposed switches and non-sealed components making them susceptible to water and rain
- Often the joins and power boards are also not waterproof
- Power boards can fill up with water, even if not directly exposed
- Tape is not effective for waterproofing connections and joins
- Extension cords also present a tripping hazard, especially in the dark
- Power cords can be accidentally pulled on and turn off or destroy the lighting
If the lights are specifically determined for indoor use only, we highly recommend only using them indoors.
Using them outdoors even under a patio or roof can void the warranty, cause damage to the lighting and present a safety risk.
For stress-free and lost cost outdoor party lights, there is no need for corner-cutting. DJ City is here to help you find the perfect waterproof party lights for your needs.
What About Solar Party Lights?
Solar party lights are becoming more and more popular. Whilst a low maintenance option, for sure, there are some pros and cons.
Pros of Solar Party Lights
- Independently powered.
- Low running cost
- Good for gentle ambience lighting
Cons of Solar Party Lights
- Operation time and output can be limited
- Often less colour-flexible or customisable
- Not suitable for big or high-energy parties alone
But when it comes to safety, the same rule applies: Make sure that, even though it is assumed to be designed for outdoor use, that your choice of solar party lights are:
- Made for the outdoors
- Fully sealed
- Properly IP-rated (i.e., IP65)
Which Waterproof Party Lights Work Best for Outdoor Setups?
Here are just three examples of effective, safe and well-priced outdoor party lights available right now from DJ City.
Beamz StarColor128 LED Flood Light
The Beamz StarColor128 LED Flood Light is an IP65 rated effective outdoor lighting solution. It combines reliable strong lighting output with dependable all-weather insulation thanks to the robust aluminium housing and tempered glass front. The Beamz StartColor128 is ideal for both permanent or semi-permanent applications and provides a rich, even colour wash that works wonderfully in open spaces, on stages, across facades, or even through trees. Plus it is entirely DMX controllable allowing for pre‑programmed lighting arrangements and the perfect, safe outdoor ambience.
BeamZ PRO StarColour72B IP65 LED Flood Light w Battery Pack
The BeamZ PRO StarColour72B is another excellent option for outdoor lighting. This model combines its IP65 weatherproof housing with a built-in lithium battery pack. This means no cables and no worry. The die‑cast aluminium body and tempered glass front are similarly designed to handle everything from rain to dust and even extreme temperatures ensuring even, rich, even washes a professional looking event or party.
Beamz BBP44 – Mini Battery Uplight IP65
The BeamZ BBP44 Mini Battery Uplight is a good option for outdoor party lights if you need accenting or uplighting. It too has a IP65 weatherproof rating with comprehensive sealing and protection. Plus, it is both compact and lightweight so it is easy to position on or around pillars, or along pathways. Its focused beam can be angled for comprehensive colour washes as well and lasts up to 25 hours on battery life – which is more than enough for your outdoor lighting needs.
How Do You Safely Use Outdoor Party Lights?
Even with IP65 ratings, it is important to remember some basic rules for safe use of outdoor party lights:
- Protect every connection
- Use only weather‑rated extension leads if necessary
- Keep joins off the ground
- Do not overload power boards
- Take care with your choice of cable paths
- Place your cables away from high‑traffic areas, stairs and pool edges.
- Tape or cover cables that cross over where people may walk or stand
Where to Find the Right Outdoor Party Lights for You?
At the end of the day, make sure you have the right outdoor party lights that are weatherproof and safe.
Fortunately, here at DJ City, we stock a wide range of party lights for all sorts of occasions and events. Whether you know exactly what sort of lights you’re after, are considering solar party lights, or want an expert opinion about which outdoor party lights are best for your needs and application, our team is always available to help you out. Contact us today or browse through our online store.
