Selection guide
IP65 vs IP66 floor boxes: which protection is needed?
IP65 and IP66 both describe dust-tight enclosures. The difference is the water exposure the closed cover is designed to handle, so the right choice starts with the actual floor condition.
Decision matrix
| Selection point | IP65 floor box | IP66 floor box |
|---|---|---|
| Dust protection | Dust-tight in the stated closed condition | Dust-tight in the stated closed condition |
| Water protection | Water-jet protection in the stated closed condition | Higher water-jet protection in the stated closed condition |
| Typical direction | Decorative round floor access where finish and protection are both important | Higher-protection rectangular or industrial floor access where the project calls for it |
| Check before specification | Module layout, floor type, finish and closed-cover condition | Module or socket layout, floor type, cable route and closed-cover condition |
What does IP65 mean for a floor box?
An IP65 rating indicates dust-tight protection and resistance to water jets in the stated closed condition. Green Home round IP65 floor boxes are selected where a decorative floor finish and water protection are both required.
Always confirm that the quoted protection applies to the selected configuration and to the cover status stated in the product specification.
What does IP66 add?
IP66 has the same dust-tight classification and a higher water-jet protection level. The rectangular IP66 waterproof floor box is the main choice where greater protection and six Type-45 module positions are needed.
The industrial IP66 floor box serves a different need: it is selected for 16A or 32A industrial socket access in pedestrian project areas.
Choose from the exposure, not the label alone
State whether the floor is subject to cleaning, splashing, water jets or another known exposure. Then confirm the floor construction, module arrangement, cable exits and any finish requirements before supply.
Questions project teams ask
Is IP66 always better than IP65 for a floor box?
No. The correct selection follows the actual water exposure, the floor construction and the required service layout. A higher rating does not replace the need to confirm the stated cover condition and project installation detail.
Do the IP ratings apply while cables are connected?
The listed protection ratings apply in the stated closed condition. Confirm the cable-exit arrangement and in-use condition for the selected product before supply.