Will Rain Damage Your Smart Lock? Understanding IP65 Protection
As a smart lock manufacturer, we often receive questions from customers worried about installing a smart lock on their front door. The most common concern is: “What happens when it rains? Will water damage my smart lock?” Let’s clear up the confusion and explain what IP65 protection really means.
Can Rain Really Damage a Smart Lock?
The short answer is: it depends on the lock’s protection level. Not all smart locks are created equal. Some are designed only for indoor use, while others are built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions including rain, snow, and dust, and extreme temperatures.
If your smart lock isn’t properly sealed or lacks sufficient water resistance, prolonged exposure to rain can cause:
- Short circuits in the electronic components
- Corrosion of metal parts
- Malfunctioning of the fingerprint sensor or keypad
- Battery drainage or complete failure
That’s why choosing a smart lock with proper weatherproof certification is essential for outdoor installation.
What Does IP65 Mean?
You may have seen the term IP65 in product descriptions, but what exactly does it mean?
IP stands for Ingress Protection, a standard defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). It measures how well a device is protected against solid objects (like dust) and liquids (like water).
The first digit (6) refers to dust protection. A rating of 6 means the device is completely dust-tight—the highest level of protection.
The second digit (5) refers to water protection. A rating of 5 means the device is protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction. In simple terms, your smart lock can handle rain, even heavy showers, without water getting inside.
What IP65 Does NOT Mean？
It’s important to understand that IP65 does not mean waterproof. It is water-resistant, not designed to be submerged in water. So while your smart lock will survive a rainy day, you should not spray it directly with a hose or install it in a location where water can pool around it.
What’s the Highest Waterproof Rating for Smart Locks?
While IP65 is sufficient for most rainy environments, the highest waterproof rating a smart lock can achieve is IP68.
- IP68 means:
- 6: Complete dust protection
- 8: Protected against continuous immersion in water (typically up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes)
⚠️ Note: IP68 is rare in smart locks because most are not designed to be submerged. However, some high-end models—like our KW909—are built with IP68-rated enclosures, making them truly weatherproof even in storm-level conditions or flood-prone areas.
Tips for Installing Your Smart Lock Outdoors
Even with IP65 or IP68 protection, proper installation is key to ensuring long-term performance:
- Choose a sheltered spot (under a porch or eave)
- Seal gaps with weatherproof gaskets
- Check door material – ensure it’s also weather-resistant
- Wipe it down occasionally to prevent buildup
Final Thoughts
IP65 = Great for rain, snow, and dust
A smart lock with IP65 rating is more than capable of handling outdoor conditions, including rain. It’s designed to keep your home secure and your lock functioning smoothly, no matter the weather.
IP68 = Best-in-class, storm-proof, and flood-resistant
If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, typhoons, or high humidity, consider upgrading to a IP68-rated smart lock like our KW909—engineered for extreme weather without compromising security or style.
If you’re considering upgrading to a smart lock, make sure to check the IP rating and choose a model that’s built for outdoor use.
Have more questions about smart locks or need help choosing the right model for your home?
Feel free to reach out to us at YiTechE@gmail.com – Our team is ready to assist!
