The overall efficiency and longevity of a typical solar panel system depend on multiple factors, including its wattage, efficiency rating, placement, and build quality. One of the critical yet often overlooked aspects of a solar panel's ability is its IP rating -- which helps the user understand its ability to withstand external elements, like dust, debris, moisture, and even heavy rain. Whether you have installed a solar panel or a roof deployed in an industrial setting or even using portable solar panels that you can easily carry from one place to another, understanding what is an IP rating and its resilience against such factors is very crucial.
For consumers and businesses alike, understanding the IP rating of a solar panel ensures that they can make well-informed decisions about investing in the right solar panel for their household usage. For instance, Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels have an IP68 waterproof rating that makes them ideal for withstanding different external factors.
Key Takeaways
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The IP rating is an international standard that classifies a solar panel's ability to resist extreme weather conditions.
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Most solar panels are rated IP65, IP66, or IP67, which provides resistance against different conditions.
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The IP68 solar panels offer the highest protection, which makes them ideal for extreme weather.
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While IP ratings ensure resistance to environmental damage, other factors such as efficiency, build quality, certifications, and manufacturer reputation must also be considered when choosing a high-quality solar panel.
What is IP Rating?
An IP rating, or Ingress Protection rating, is an internationally recognized standard set by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC 60529) that helps define the degree of protection an enclosure provides against solid particles and liquids. These solid particles can be anything from dust to debris, whereas the liquids can be water or even condensation.
As per the IEC 60529, the IP ratings consist of two numbers:
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The first digit, usually from zero to six, indicates protection against solid particles, including dust and other small contaminants.
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The second digit ranges from zero to nine and specifies protection against moisture, from light water sprays to full immersion.
For example, an IP65-rated solar panel is completely dust-tight, and if it is placed against low-pressure water jets, it won't affect its durability and efficiency.
Importance of IP Ratings in Solar Panels
If you invest a large sum in a full-fledged solar energy system for their household and outdoor activities, they would want to know the product's durability and efficiency against extremely hard weather conditions. For this, understanding the IP ratings always comes in handy.
Since solar panels are designed for outdoor use, their exposure to dust, moisture, and extreme weather conditions makes IP ratings essential for long-term reliability. Here are a few key reasons why understanding the solar panels’ IP rating is very important:
Protection Against Dust and Debris
Most solar panel users complain about dust accumulation on the panels, which significantly reduces their efficiency. If they go ahead with something like IP65 or higher-rated solar panels, then they can be assured of dust-tight protection.
Weather Resistance
Almost all of the solar panels are exposed to rain, humidity, and storms. A higher waterproof IP rating, like an IP 68 rating, would ensure that the solar panels can handle harsh weather conditions during power outages or outdoor activities.
Durability in Coastal Areas
Solar panels in locations near the ocean or in humid climates can suffer corrosion and internal damage. Solar panels with high IP ratings can generally prevent water and salt ingress, which helps extend their overall lifespan.
Ensuring Compliance and Warranty Validity
According to different government policies, most manufacturers require specific IP ratings for warranty claims. Understanding the solar panel IP rating can help in choosing models that meet compliance regulations and keep warranties intact.
Understanding the IP Rating Chart
In order to effectively compare different solar panel IP ratings, it is crucial for the end user to understand how to read the IP rating chart and what each digit represents.
An IP rating follows a two-digit format: IPXX, where each “X” represents a different level of protection. The following IP rating format is in accordance with IEC 60529, and it is highly recommended to adhere to the latest publication and manufacturer’s policies before buying solar panels.
First digit (0-6): Protection Against Solids
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0 – No protection
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1 – Protection from objects > 50mm (e.g., hand usage)
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2 – Protection from objects > 12.5mm (e.g., basic touch from fingers)
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3 – Protection from objects > 2.5mm (e.g., in contact with tools or thick wires)
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4 – Protection from objects > 1 mm (e.g., in contact with small wires or screws)
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5 – Limited dust ingress allowed (does not interfere with operation)
Second digit (0-9): Protection Against Liquids
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0 – No protection
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1 – Protection from vertically dripping water
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2 – Protection from dripping water at a 15° angle
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3 – Protection from water spray at an angle of 60°
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4 – Protection from splashing water from any direction
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5 – Protection from low-pressure water jets (6.3mm nozzle)
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6 – Protection from powerful water jets (12.5mm nozzle)
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7 – Protection from temporary immersion in water (up to 1m for 30 min)
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8 – Protection from continuous submersion in water (specified depth/duration are usually provided on the manufacturer’s product’s page)
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9 – Protection from high-pressure, high-temperature water jets
Comparison of Different IP Ratings
Before buying solar panels for solar generators or portable units, it is also important to learn how to read the IP ratings for solar panels. As one can understand, solar panel IP ratings help determine whether they would suit one's environment and the weather conditions of one's neighborhood.
Here’s what different solar panel IP ratings mean:
IP65 Solar Panel Rating
An IP65 solar panel would mean that it is fully dust-tight and can resist low-pressure water jets. Such solar panels are suitable for rooftop solar panels.
IP66 Solar Panel Rating
Like IP65 solar panels, IP66 solar panels can withstand higher water resistance, making them ideal for industrial and agricultural scenarios.
IP67 Solar Panel Rating
An IP67 solar panel is dustproof and can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. Such solar panels are ideal for off-grid solar systems and RV solar panels and can even be used in different marine solar applications.
IP68 Solar Panel Rating
IP68 solar panels are reportedly fully dust-tight and even capable of continuous submersion in water, which makes them ideal for coastal regions and extreme weather conditions.
Note: Even with an IP68 rating, the solar panel is never fully guaranteed to be fully waterproof. As per the IEC, this technically means that the device will be waterproof except in rare events.
Impact of IP Ratings on Solar Panel Lifespan
It won’t be wrong to say that the impact of IP ratings on solar panel lifespan is highly crucial for those who live in extreme environmental conditions. For instance, solar panels with an IP67 rating or higher can reportedly provide superior protection against dust and moisture ingress. This reduces the risk of internal corrosion and electrical failures.
Moreover, people living in coastal or desert regions often prefer solar panels with IP68 ratings because they maintain higher efficiency over time due to their ability to withstand prolonged exposure to harsh conditions. That said, it is not like a solar panel with an IP65 rating won't perform as expected. They may still perform well in more controlled environmental conditions.
Here's a detailed impact of IP ratings on solar panel lifespan for better understanding:
High humidity levels: Solar Panels rated below IP66 ratings have been observed to experience higher failure rates, which often require more frequent maintenance and add additional costs to the house owner.
Greater resilience: IP67 and IP68 solar panels have demonstrated lower failure rates over extended periods, which makes them ideal for long-term solar investments.
Challenging environments: Solar Panels with higher IP ratings are better suited for regions with heavy rainfall, humidity, or salt-heavy air, which ensures durability and reliability.
Jackery Solar Panels IP Ratings
Jackery is a renowned manufacturer of foldable solar panels, solar generators, and portable power stations. The Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels can be connected to portable power stations to build a solar-powered generator for powering household or outdoor appliances. The solar panels have received TÜV SÜD carbon neutral certification and are IP68-rated for enhanced durability. Here, we will reveal the best solar panels from Jackery that have high waterproof ratings and are built to withstand harsh weather conditions:
Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panels
If you are looking for a lightweight and waterproof solar panel, check out Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panels. This ultra-portable solar panel weighs only 2.6 lbs, offers a four-fold compact design, and has an IP68 rating. All of this and more make Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panels a highly durable solar panel that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Customer Review
"Have had the panel only a couple weeks, but so far so good. I have used the USB-C and the USB-A ports to charge several devices." -- William Crane.
Jackery SolarSaga 100 Prime Solar Panels
If you want a solar panel that is ideal for household emergency power needs and can also be used for RVs and camping, then you can check out the Jackery SolarSaga 100 Prime Solar Panels. These IP68-rated panels come with a patented arch design that has redefined safety standards. Similar to Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panels, these are also IP68 waterproof and dust-resistant panels and are operational during extreme weather conditions.
Customer Review
“This solar panel is awesome! Very clean looking and easy to install.” -- Stephen Moore
Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels
The Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel is the best-selling solar panel. It features a bifacial design that improves overall charging efficiency. This IP68-waterproof rated solar panel has a high solar conversion efficiency of 24.3%, which makes it great for emergency power outages. At the same time, the ETFE-laminated case further extends its lifespan.
Customer Review
“I love these solar panels! There are two USB ports that can be used while charging the Jackery. A zipper pocket on the back holds the charging cable and any adapters right where you need them. They are easy to carry, and a damp cloth keeps them clean.” -- Caroline Castle
Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels
The Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels is the ideal solution as it can be attached to the Jackery Portable Power Stations to power appliances during outdoor activities or for home backups. They are easily foldable, which makes them easy to carry around and use. The Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels are IP68-rated and designed to withstand a functioning temperature range of -20~65℃(-4~149°F), making them ideal for longer usage.
Customer Review
“Perhaps designing the extension to run from the triple adapter to the power station would conserve resources and make it more efficient to connect multiple panels due to proximity issues.” - Ellis Talbert.
Jackery SolarSaga 500X Solar Panels
If you require high power output for your emergency home backup solution, you can always rely on the Jackery SolarSaga 500X Solar Panels. This IP68-rated solar panel consists of six SolarSaga 85 panels, which are designed to work individually. With a compact and foldable design, it would become extremely easy for you to carry around. These solar panels are IP68 rated and can be operated from -40°C to 85°C (-40°F - 104°F).
How to Choose the Right IP Rating for Your Solar Panels
Before you go ahead and buy a solar panel for your household or commercial usage, it is important to consider a few factors that would impact your overall decision. For instance:
Climate Conditions: You should always consider the climate condition of your area. If you live in a place that experiences heavy rainfall for the better half of the year, investing in a lower-rated solar panel would only yield an additional maintenance cost. If the solar panels are bound to get exposed to heavy rainfall, snow, or storms, an IP67 or IP68 rating is recommended.
Installation Location: The rooftop solar panels require a lower IP rating because they are installed at an angle, with drainage considerations, and are generally less exposed to direct water accumulation compared to the ground-mounted solar panels that often require a higher IP rating.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Solar panels with IP67 or IP68 ratings reduce the risk of internal damage by preventing dust and moisture ingress. However, solar panels with lower IP ratings may require frequent cleaning and protective coatings to work effectively.
Industrial or Coastal Use: If you intend to use solar panel systems in chemical-heavy or salt-heavy environments, it is recommended that you use solar panels with IP68 ratings. In most coastal areas, salt-laden air can corrode metal components, and if you have higher-rated solar panels, they can withstand extreme conditions, which leads to a longer operational lifespan and reduced maintenance costs.
Portability: If you are a frequent traveler looking for a portable solution for your electricity needs, it is recommended that you go ahead with higher-rated solar panels because of the unpredictability of weather conditions.
Common Misconceptions for Solar Panels IP Ratings
When it comes to lower or even higher-rated solar panels, there are several misconceptions among first-time buyers, like:
A higher IP rating always means better solar panels: While solar panels with higher IP ratings indicate protection, there are several different factors, like efficiency and temperature tolerance, that also matter when it comes to the durability of a solar panel for long-term usage.
All solar panels need IP68: Even though it is highly recommended to go ahead with IP68 ratings when buying solar panels, it is often seen that most residential and commercial setups function well with IP65 or IP66 ratings. The only condition that comes along here is the frequent maintenance cost of the lower-rated solar panels.
IP ratings indicate total waterproofing: A high IP rating does not always mean a panel is completely waterproof; it only specifies resistance to certain levels of water exposure.
Higher IP ratings eliminate maintenance needs: It won’t be the case that once you have bought a higher-rated solar panel, you won’t need to clean or inspect it. Yes, the frequency to check and inspect would significantly reduce but even solar panels with IP68 ratings would still require periodic cleaning and inspection to maintain peak efficiency.
IP Rating FAQs
Is an IP66 rating good for solar panels?
Yes, an IP66 rating is suitable for solar panels, especially for those who want to protect their panels from dust and strong water jets. However, for areas prone to extreme weather conditions, it is always recommended to go ahead with IP68 solar panels.
What IP rating is waterproof?
An IP rating of IP67 or IP68 is considered waterproof. According to IEC, IP67 panels can withstand temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, while IP68 panels can endure continuous submersion in water at a depth specified by the manufacturer.
What is the IP rating of solar panels?
Most solar panels on the market today have an IP65, IP66, or IP67 rating, depending on their intended use. Most residential and commercial properties in the United States use an IP65 or IP66 rating solar panel.
What is the difference between IP66 and IP68?
The primary difference between IP66 and IP68 lies in their level of water protection. IP66 panels are resistant to powerful water jets but cannot be submerged in water. In contrast, IP68 panels are fully dustproof and can withstand continuous immersion in water at a manufacturer-specified depth.
How do I know if a solar panel is of good quality?
There are several factors that one can consider when choosing the right solar panels. Some of the prominent key indicators include high-efficiency ratings, long warranties, strong frame constructions, and certification from reputable organizations like IEC, UL, or TÜV Rheinland.
Conclusion
IP ratings are essential when selecting the right solar panels for different environments. The solar panel IP ratings determine how well a panel will safeguard against dust and moisture. For longer usage and low maintenance costs, it is recommended to go ahead with IP67 and IP68 solar panels, as they offer superior protection against water ingress.
If you are looking for higher-rated solar panels that can easily be carried around in your house or for outdoor adventures, you can always check out Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels. These higher IP-rated solar panels are designed to handle extreme weather conditions and can be an ideal solution for camping, emergency household backups, or even off-grid living.
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