Community question of the week: Using MR16 spots in the bathroom

At the end of August, Philips Hue introduced another new light source. After E27, GU10 and E14, there are now spots with a GU5.3 base. From September, the new lamps will be available as White Ambiance and White and Color Ambiance, but there are still some question marks. For example, Marvin asks in our comments section:

Is there already information in the technical data about the protection class of the new lamps? In the bathroom, the required protection class ranges from IP44 to IP67, depending on where the ceiling spotlights are installed.

Unfortunately, at the moment there is still no product page online where you can look up concrete technical data. I have already collected some details for you:

• Light output at 4,000 Kelvin: 400 lumens
• Socket: GU5.3
• Height: 49mm
• Diameter: 50mm
• Power: 6.3 Watt (WACA) / 5.1 Watt (WA)
• Standby: maximum 0.5 Watt
• Radio: ZigBee & Bluetooth

Are the new MR16 spots protected against splash water?

Unfortunately, I have bad news for you. Philips Hue answered my question about the water protection of the new lamps with GU5.3 base:

The MR16 has an IP20 certification. When using the MR16 in a humid environment, we recommend paying attention to the IP certification of the luminaire in which it is used. If the luminaire is certified for use in a bathroom or humid environment, the light source can also be used.

So that the new light sources can be installed in the bathroom without any danger, especially in the rather damp area, appropriate recessed spotlights with their own water protection must be used. A complete package, such as the Hue Xamento recessed spotlights with GU10 and 230 volts, is not yet available.