IP67 is not suitable inside swimming pools

Reviewed under Eng. Abdullah Al Balushi

IP67 garden lights withstand temporary submersion (rain and washing), but inside the pool you must use IP68 only.

Similar entries

Common mistakeAiming light at glass and mirrors

“Got a spotlight hitting the windows at night? You're blinding your guests!”

The problem: Aiming lights at reflective surfaces such as glass creates distracting glare that blocks the view outside.
Technical explanation: Light should be aimed at walkways and opaque walls. Avoid aiming lights at windows at night entirely, so you can enjoy the view of the garden.
The result: A comfortable evening sitting and a clear view of the villa's garden without distraction.

Common mistakeThe Kelvin crisis on facades

“Your villa has a modern white design, and it's lit in 2700K yellow? That's the biggest architectural mistake!”

The problem: Choosing a very warm (heritage-style) light colour on a modern, clean facade makes it look old and yellowed.
Technical explanation: Modern facades and gardens suit 4000K (natural white) lighting, while classic designs suit 3000K, and heritage designs 2700K.
The result: Bringing out the villa's architectural identity and making it look its finest and most elegant to anyone viewing it from outside.

Common mistakeRandomly placed bollard lights

“Has your garden turned into an airport runway because of your path lights?”

The problem: Placing bollard lights too close together, randomly and excessively
Technical explanation: The ideal path bollard is spaced every 4 to 5 metres, and its height should ideally be half the width of the area being lit
The result: Elegant, calm garden paths with no extra fixture costs

Common mistakeLighting trees the wrong way

“Garden looks gloomy at night? The secret isn’t the trees, it’s the direction of the light!”

The problem: Using bright floodlights that hit the trees from above
Technical explanation: High-end tree lighting (as in luxury Dubai projects) relies on concealed lighting from below (Up-lighting) to cast dramatic shadows on the walls
The result: A home garden that looks like a luxury resort

Common mistakeThe four bathroom Zones

“Electrically, a bathroom isn’t one area... it’s 4 zones! Getting this wrong causes short circuits.”

The problem: Installing non-sealed (IP20) fixtures in direct shower areas
Technical explanation: In engineering terms the bathroom is divided into 4 zones (Zone 0 for the tub, Zone 1 above the shower which needs IP44/IP65, and Zone 3 for dry areas)
The result: Protecting your family from electric shock, and choosing fixtures that last a long time without rusting

Common mistakeLighting glass windows

“Have lights aimed at your living room windows? You've just blinded your guests!”

The problem: Aiming light at glass makes it act like a mirror, reflecting harsh light into the eyes and blocking the view of the garden.
Technical explanation: Light should be directed at walkways and solid walls (Wall Washer), completely avoiding reflective surfaces.
The result: A comfortable living room at night with a clear view of the garden.

Common mistakeBuying IP20 lights for the bathroom

“Putting an ordinary spotlight in the shower ceiling and wondering why it gives shocks?”

The problem: Using non-sealed fittings in Zone 1, which is exposed to steam and water.
Technical explanation: The area directly above the shower needs fittings rated IP44 or IP65 to withstand steam.
The result: Protects your family from electric shock.

Spec explainedProtecting outdoor lighting (IP65)

“Why do your courtyard lights fail after every rain or wash-down? Check for this spec!”

The problem: Outdoor lighting and shower-area fittings getting damaged by water and humidity.
Technical explanation: An IP65 rating ensures the fitting is fully sealed against water jets and dust.
The result: Lighting that lasts in the toughest Gulf climate conditions, and savings on maintenance.

Guide values; the final decision rests with a qualified engineer under the applicable code.