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There is much discussion over which heaters are waterproof and/or weatherproof
and if you read the Heat Outdoors description of the 'IP' ratings you will see
that there are specific values given to each product for the level of water
and solid particles that can get in. In theory an IP65 rated heater is
completely secure against dust and water and can function outdoors in all
weather all year. Many of the products that have an IP65 rating are
surprising in that they have no physical barrier between the heating lamp and
the air around, with just a simple wire mesh or grill to prevent anything
getting in. Many questions have been asked as to how this can possibly claim
an IP65 rating, the answer they will give is this "The essential electronics
are sealed in a separate compartment and protected against moisture and dust
etc. The lamp element itself is exposed to the elements, however, is fully
functional and will even happily operate under water".
Now comes the argument of does IP65 mean the unit is hermetically sealed in
total or only the parts that might be affected are sealed? To further confuse
matters some manufacturers rely upon a system of self certification where as
others send their products away to independent laboratories in order to gain
their IP65 certificated status.
Undercover heaters are often used in outdoor environments and will usually be
perfectly fine as long as they are no subjected to a direct deluge of water.
Many systems fitted to parasols do not need to be fully waterproof as the
parasol itself offers significant protection against the elements and they can
usually be easily taken down and stored indoors when not in use.
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