You’ve found it: the perfect, large outdoor chandelier to hang over your patio. You see an "outdoor" label and two fixtures that look identical, but one is slightly cheaper. It’s tempting to save a few dollars, but that small choice could be a $1 mistake that costs you hundreds. As your Burnsville local lighting store, Southern Lights wants to help you avoid this common pitfall. The secret is in the UL rating: "Damp" vs. "Wet."

These two terms are not interchangeable, and they are the single most important factor for the safety and longevity of your outdoor lighting. Shop today.

What Does "Damp-Rated" Mean?

Think "protected." These fixtures are built to handle moisture, humidity, and condensation, but they are not sealed against direct water. A damp-rated fixture is perfect for a fully covered porch, a sunroom, or even an indoor outdoor chandelier for a bathroom. Its components are protected from ambient moisture, but it has no defense against driving rain.

What Does "Wet-Rated" Mean?

Think "exposed." A wet-rated fixture is a fortress. It is specially designed with rubber gaskets, sealed wiring compartments, and water-resistant materials to withstand direct contact with the elements. These outdoor chandeliers are built to withstand rain, sleet, and snow, and keep all electrical components perfectly dry.

The Costly Mistake We See Every Season

Here in Burnsville, our weather is the ultimate test. Your lighting doesn't just face a light sprinkle; it faces horizontal snow, ice buildup, and torrential summer thunderstorms.

The most common mistake we see is a homeowner hanging a damp-rated fixture in an exposed location, like on a pergola or an uncovered patio. That slightly cheaper fixture isn't sealed. Water will inevitably get inside. At first, you might just notice ugly rust spots. Soon, you'll be constantly tripping your GFCI outlet. In the worst-case scenario, you're looking at a dangerous short circuit, a potential fire hazard, and a voided manufacturer's warranty. 

STOP BY TODAY

Before you buy any outdoor chandeliers for patios, check the UL rating. When you visit our 25,000-square-foot showroom at Southern Lights, our experts will not only help you find a style you love but will also ask the right questions.