What exactly is IP67 based on, and is it sufficient for pressure washing?
According to IEC 60529, in IP67 the digit 6 means full protection against dust, and the digit 7 means resistance to temporary immersion for 30 minutes with the lowest point of the device 1 meter below the water surface. A pressurized water jet is a different test (IP69K; 75-85 degree hot water, 100-150 mm distance), and an IP67 rating does not mean this test has been passed. The HCT400 and HCT402 are IP67 rated.
The IP code consists of two digits, and the digits are not cumulative. That is, a device rated IP67 is not automatically considered resistant to a pressurized jet.
- 6 (dust): full protection against dust ingress.
- 7 (water): temporary immersion for 30 minutes at 1 m depth.
Pressure washing is a different situation. A high-pressure, hot water jet from close range loads the seal far more severely than immersion does. The test for this scenario is IP69K and is applied with water at 75-85 degrees from a distance of 100-150 mm.
Field practice:
- Rain, mud, standing water, and temporary immersion fall within IP67.
- Do not point the pressure washer gun directly at the motor body and connectors; keep your distance or clean that area by hand.
- Connectors being fully seated is essential for the seal to do its job; a loose connector voids the IP rating.
- Before washing, make sure the remote control's charging cover is closed.
Full coverage of this topic: What Does the HCT402 Achieve, How, and How Much? A Technical Review