Watertight LED luminaires: watertightness goes beyond the luminaire itself
IP67 or IP68 certification of an LED luminaire is a prerequisite for installation in demanding environments, but on its own it does not guarantee the reliability of the entire system. Water or moisture can still infiltrate through other paths, leading to condensation, degradation of lighting performance, corrosion, or even short circuits. It is therefore the installation as a whole that requires rigorous attention.
A critical point often underestimated: the power supply cable
SWhile the visible components of a luminaire (housing, optics, cable gland) are generally well protected, a discreet yet frequent phenomenon represents a major risk: moisture ingress through the power supply cable.
This phenomenon, known as the pumping effect, is caused by thermal variations:
- When the luminaire is switched on, the internal temperature rises, causing air to expand and be expelled.
- When switched off, cooling creates negative pressure that can draw in moisture—or even water—through the cable.
Repeated with each cycle, this mechanism leads to a gradual build-up of moisture, which can degrade the luminaire’s internal electronics even without direct immersion. Any weakness in the connection can therefore compromise overall watertightness, regardless of the declared IP rating.
🔎 Recommendation: choosing connectors with a minimum IP67 rating helps limit risks related to capillary action and condensation.
The LEC solution: a patented anti-water-ingress breaker
Aware of these technical constraints, LEC has developed a specific response to this risk: a patented anti-water-ingress breaker, integrated directly into the power cable. This system operates on two levels:
- It prevents water circulation between the cable sheath and the conductors.
- It also blocks the propagation of moisture between the internal wires.
This dual barrier permanently neutralises the pumping effect and prevents any migration of moisture into the luminaire.
In addition, the cables used by LEC are AD8 certified, ensuring total watertightness even in cases of permanent immersion. This configuration guarantees a high level of reliability, including in highly demanding environments (flood-prone areas, sensitive public spaces, landscaped areas with irrigation systems, etc.).
Reliable installations also depend on rigorous implementation
Despite these technical safeguards, installation performance also relies on the quality of execution. An insufficiently sealed junction box or a poorly protected connection can undermine the entire system.
With more than 45 years of field expertise, LEC supports specifiers, installers, and local authorities in defining durable solutions designed to reduce maintenance and ensure the long-term reliability of lighting installations.