One of the first things a solar panel buyer usually looks for is its durability and ability to withstand external elements, like dust, debris, and water exposure. One of the most widely recognized systems for evaluating this durability is IP rating. Among the various IP ratings, the IP68 rating is considered the highest level of protection for solar panels that ensure complete dust and waterproofing.
By understanding different waterproof IP ratings, one can evaluate which solar panel is ideal for their usage. Jackery has a line of solar panels that are designed by keeping international standards in mind and are ideal for those who are looking to make informed choices when selecting solar panels for various environments.
Key Takeaways
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IP68-rated solar panels offer the highest protection level, providing complete dustproofing and water resistance.
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IP65, IP66, and IP67 provide varying degrees of water resistance, with IP65 handling low-pressure water jets, IP66 resisting high-pressure water exposure, and IP67 allowing temporary immersion in water.
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Choosing the right IP rating depends on environmental exposure, with IP68 panels being the best option for extreme conditions and long-term durability.
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Investing in an IP68-rated solar panel reduces maintenance costs and extends the panel's lifespan.
What is the IP68 Rating?
As per IEC 60529 standards, the IP68 rating is the highest level of ingress protection that signifies that a device is completely dust-tight IP(6X) and can even endure water-related circumstances (IPX8) at levels specified by the manufacturers. The IP68 solar panel rating further ensures maximum protection against dust, dirt, sand, and water, making it an ideal choice for locations with extreme weather conditions.
A few key characteristics of an IP68-rating solar panel are:
The first digit (6)—Dust Protection
According to the first digit, the solar panel is completely sealed against dust, which prevents any ingress that could damage the internal components of the circuitry mechanism.
The second digit (8)—Water Protection
The second digit provides information about water protection, and since it is eight here, the solar panel can withstand continuous immersion in water beyond 1 meter for an extended period, as defined by the manufacturer.
Unlike lower IP ratings like IP64 or IP65, which provide limited protection against water jets or temporary immersion, IP68-rated solar panels offer superior resilience against harsh weather, which makes them ideal for:
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Coastal areas face high humidity and salt exposure all year round.
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Flood-prone regions where prolonged water exposure is possible for extended periods.
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Industrial settings where airborne particles, exposure to chemicals, and moisture happen almost on a daily basis.
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Off-grid and marine applications, where solar panels might be exposed to constant moisture or water splashes.
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The IP68 ingress protection rating further ensures that solar panels continue operating efficiently, even in challenging environments where dust and water exposure would otherwise degrade performance over time.
Note: It should be noted here that complete water immersion is a very subjective thing, and even if a solar panel is IP68 waterproof rated, it should not be immersed in the water body to check for its efficiency.
Why Should You Choose Waterproof IP68 Rating Solar Panels
Water ingress can often cause irreversible damage to the photovoltaic cells, wiring, and connectors. That is why solar energy users often choose a waterproof IP68 rating that increases the overall lifespan of the system. Here’s why waterproofing is a critical factor when choosing your solar panels.
Prevents Electrical Failures
Water intrusion into a solar panel’s electrical components can cause short circuits, which can subsequently reduce the system's efficiency and safety. At the same time, short circuits can also create life-threatening conditions for humans, surrounding animals, and birds. An IP68-rated panel ensures that no water enters the enclosure, and there will be no chances for short circuits because of the water.
Enhances Longevity
Most residential owners buy solar generators and solar panels to reduce their electricity bills or increase the overall value of their property. Solar panels are considered a long-term investment, often lasting 20 to 25 years. When these solar panels are exposed to moisture without proper protection, they can degrade the internal wiring and lead to panel failure.
The IP68-rated solar panels are engineered to withstand high moisture exposure, which increases their overall durability.
Ensures Performance in Harsh Environments
If you live in a region that experiences heavy rainfall, coastal winds, or snow accumulation, you will require solar panels that can handle prolonged exposure to water. The IP68-rated solar panels are fully sealed and can even resist water penetrations.
Reduces Maintenance Costs
Most household owners complain that they need to pay an additional sum for the maintenance of their solar generator unit. One of the most important parts that requires maximum maintenance is the solar panel. If one has lower-rated solar panels, like IP65 or IP66, then they would require frequent inspections. Residential owners even need to take protective measures to prevent water damage.
In contrast, waterproof IP68-Rated solar panels require minimal maintenance, as their design eliminates the need for additional protective coverings.
How Waterproof IP68 Works For Solar Panels
The IP68 rating ensures that solar panels are equipped with advanced protective technology, which allows them to perform reliably in extreme conditions like snow, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall. Some of the major technical aspects that would help you understand how a waterproof IP68 rating works for solar panels that make them highly durable:
Advanced Sealing Technology
Most of the IP68 solar panels utilize hermetically sealed enclosures, which are made from high-quality silicone gaskets and reinforced polymer compounds. The combination of silicone gaskets and polymer compounds prevents moisture and dust ingress. Most manufacturers ensure that these enclosures undergo a rigorous vacuum-sealing process that further ensures long-term durability.
Corrosion-Resistant Coatings
In order to increase durability and longevity, manufacturers even add multilayer anti-corrosion coating to the frame and electrical components that also ensure that the solar panels' efficiency does not degrade due to exposure to chemical pollutants, humidity, and saltwater.
Waterproof Junction Boxes and Connectors
The waterproof IP67 solar panels are also designed with waterproof resin-sealed housings that protect electrical connections from moisture infiltration. The solar panels used for marines even have connectors featuring double-layer rubbed sealing rings that ensure no water enters even when the solar panels are constantly submerged in water.
Benefits of a Waterproof IP68 Rating for Solar Panels
When buying a new solar panel to attach to solar generators, most users look for durability as it directly impacts that solar panel's performance over its lifetime. The IP68 solar panels stand out amongst the rest due to their unmatched resistance to extreme weather and environmental conditions.
Solar panels are designed to be kept outside, either on the rooftop or on the ground -- but they are fully operational when they are not under any shed or long building. This means that they are constantly exposed to environmental elements, which can impact their efficiency and lifespan. However, when you go ahead with the IP68 waterproof rating, then you will find out that the overall functionalities of these solar panels do not degrade over prolonged exposure to extreme conditions.
Here are a few key benefits of a waterproof IP68 rating for solar panels:
Protection Against Dust and Solid Particles
The IP68-rated solar panels are designed to prevent dirt, sand, and other airborne debris from entering and damaging the internal components. This feature particularly benefits those who intend to use solar panels, generators, or portable power stations in deserts, industrial zones, and remote locations.
Superior Water Resistance for Harsh Conditions
Unlike the lower-rated panels, like IP65 and IP66 solar panels, the IP68-rated panels are designed for complete immersion in water. Such extreme capabilities ensure that the panels remain functional even in flooded regions, coastal installations, and heavy rainfall areas. However, it is always recommended to get in touch with the manufacturer to learn more about the solar panel's overall capabilities when it comes to withstanding water immersion.
Enhanced Structural Integrity
The IP68-rated solar panels feature durable materials, like high-quality aluminum frames and tempered glasses, which prevent mechanical damage from extreme weather conditions. This robust sealing technology even keeps the internal components safe from exposure, further improving their longevity.
Reduced Wear and Tear Over Time
Since waterproof IP68-rated solar panels prevent dust and water ingress, they experience significantly less wear and tear than other lower-rated solar panels. This degradation reduction reduces the need for frequent replacements and saves users hundreds of dollars over an extended period.
Increased Reliability in Extreme Environments
Due to their ability to handle harsh weather conditions, IP68-rated solar panels are mostly used in off-grid systems or remote locations. Their overall resistance to corrosion, oxidation, and mechanical stress makes them an ideal choice for extreme locations.
Comparison of IP Ratings
If you are planning to buy a new solar panel for your solar generator or portable power station, then it would be great to wonder the difference between IP65, IP66, IP67, and IP68 ratings. Check out the detailed comparison between them:
|
Parameter |
IP65 |
IP66 |
IP67 |
IP68 |
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Dust Protection |
Limited dust ingress allowed |
Fully dust-tight |
Fully dust-tight |
Fully dust-tight |
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Water Resistance |
Low-pressure water jets |
High-pressure water jets |
Temporary immersion (1m, 30 min) |
Continuous immersion (depth specified by the manufacturer) |
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Ideal Use Case |
Residential rooftops |
Industrial and agricultural |
Flood-prone areas, coastal regions |
Marine, submerged environments |
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Structural Integrity |
Standard sealing materials |
Improved sealing, water jets |
High durability, reinforced casing |
Maximum durability, corrosion-resistant materials |
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Maintenance Needs |
Requires periodic checks |
Requires fewer checks |
Low maintenance |
Minimal maintenance |
How to Test IP68 Rating?
As an end-user, it is generally impossible to test each solar panel before you purchase. However, there are several steps that a manufacturer follows before they get an IP68 rating. By learning more about the process and testing, one can make a well-informed decision before making a purchase. The following steps provide an outline that most manufacturers follow when they test their solar panels:
Step 1: Dustproof Testing (First Digit: 6)
At the beginning, the solar panels are placed in a sealed dust chamber filled with fine particles. Then, a vacuum mechanism is applied to ensure that dust does not enter the panel enclosure.
The process continues for around 8 hours, and then the panels are removed and inspected for dust ingress.
If the tester does not find any dust on it and the internal components are functional, the solar panels are then qualified as IP6X.
Step 2: Waterproof Testing (Second Digit: 8)
To understand waterproofing, the solar panels are then submerged in water at a manufacturer-specified depth (typically beyond 1 meter) for an extended period (often 30 minutes to several hours).
Most manufacturers follow the industry standards and specific panel designs.
Once removed, the solar panels are then checked for moisture ingress, electrical faults, and performance degradation.
If the panel remains fully functional and free from internal moisture, it qualifies for IPX8 certification.
Step 3: Electrical Functionality Check
The solar panels also undergo electrical testing before and after submersion to water. This way, testers can ensure that it maintains optimal energy efficiency.
The team compares the internal components, voltage, current, and overall performance to pre-test readings.
If there is no measurable decline in performance, the panel passes the IP68 test.
Step 4: Long-Term Environmental Simulation
Some manufacturers conduct extended humidity and temperature tests to simulate real-world exposure.
The solar panels are placed in a high-humidity chamber at elevated temperatures (often above 50°C). This way, the tester or even manufacturers can assess its long-term resistance to condensation.
Jackery Solar Panels IP Ratings
Jackery is a leading manufacturer of foldable solar panels, high-battery solar generators, and portable power stations. The Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels are connected to the portable power stations. Together, it works as a solar-powered generator that provides an emergency solution to charge or power household appliances. What makes Jackery’s solar panels is the fact that they have received TÜV SÜD carbon neutral certification and are IP68-rated for enhanced durability. Some of the best solar panels from Jackery are:
Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panels
If you are constantly on the move and looking for something that can easily be carried around, you can check out Jackery SolarSaga 40W Mini Solar Panels. These solar panels come with a four-fold design that makes them highly compact, so one can easily pack and carry them when they are traveling. It features a 23% solar conversion rate, which also ensures that you get the most power possible when it is placed right under the sun.
Customer Review:
“Awesome product, small enough to fit in a backpack. I bought 3. One can charge a medium-sized JBL speaker in 5 hours." - John Cahoon.
Jackery SolarSaga 100 Prime Solar Panels
The Jackery SolarSaga 100 Prime Solar Panels feature a flexible design that allows for easy setup when placed in different environmental conditions. From using them in your house to your RV or even on a yacht, these solar panels have an unshaded front that provides higher power when placed under the sun. Jackery SolarSaga 100 Prime Solar Panels also feature bifacial energy generation, increasing output power by up to 20%.
Customer Review:
“I mounted two of these SolarSage 100 Prime solar panels on the shed in my backyard. They work very well. I was impressed with the build quality (frankly, the best solar panel I've ever touched) and the ease of installation.” -- Lief Larson.
Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels
The Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels are made with monocrystalline cells and have a high solar conversion efficiency of 24.3%. They are ideal for house backup solutions and outdoor activities. What makes these solar panels different is that they are lightweight, easily foldable, and have an IP68 waterproof rating.
Customer Review:
“I’m pleased with this panel. It outputs greater than its nominal rating (>100W).” -- P.S.
Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels
Similarly to the other solar panels in this line-up, the Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels also provide a high solar conversion. Their ETFE-laminated case extends their lifespan and ensures maximum output when connected to portable power stations. The IP68 waterproof rating further ensures that the Jackery SolarSaga 200W Solar Panels can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Customer Review:
“This is a great unit. The size is really good. It powers all my small devices, keeps the lights on, and keeps everything charged up when I’m off the grid. The 200 W solar panel charges this thing up pretty fast, bottom line. I highly recommend it. I love this thing.” -- James Dannenbaum.
Jackery SolarSaga 500X Solar Panels
The Jackery SolarSaga 500X Solar Panel is the largest solar panel from Jackery, as it comes with six SolarSaga 85 panels that provide fast solar charging. Another amazing feature is that these solar panels can withstand temperatures from -40°C to 85°C (-40°F - 104°F). The dual-sided solar panels of Jackery SolarSaga 500X Solar Panels also ensure that they can capture sunlight from both sides.
IP68 Rating FAQs
Is IP68 the highest waterproof rating?
Yes, IP68 is currently the highest standard waterproof rating for consumer electronics and solar panels. The IP68 rating signifies complete protection against dust ingress and the ability to withstand continuous water immersion at depths that are specified by the manufacturer.
What does the waterproof rating IP68 mean?
An IP68 waterproof rating means that the product (usually a smartphone or solar panel) is completely dustproof and capable of withstanding long-term water submersion beyond 1 meter or as defined by the manufacturer.
Which phones have an IP68 rating?
There are several high-end smartphones that now come with an IP68 rating, like the iPhone 16 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, Google Pixel 7 Pro, and Sony Xperia 1 IV. These phones can handle submersion in water for up to 30 minutes at varying depths.
What benefit does an IP68 rating provide?
An IP68 rating offers maximum durability and environmental protection, making it ideal for solar panels used in harsh conditions. Some of the common benefits include resistance to dust, water, and weather extremes, which ensures a longer lifespan, reduced maintenance, and better performance in harsh weather conditions.
Conclusion
The IP68 rating represents the highest level of ingress protection for solar panels, which ensures complete dustproofing and the ability to withstand continuous water immersion at manufacturer-defined depths. When we compare different IP ratings with IP68, we find that the latter provides maximum durability, longevity, and reliability in extreme environments.
Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels are the ideal IP68-rated solar panels that are known for high durability and efficient energy conversion. If you are looking for sustainable energy solutions, then you can always rely on Jackery’s solar panels, as they ensure maximum protection against outdoor elements.
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