Pick up a light fixture box and you will find a handful of marks and phrases that look technical: CSA, cUL, ULC, damp location, wet location. They matter. They tell you whether a fixture has been tested for use in Canada, and whether it can safely handle the moisture where you plan to install it. This guide explains what those labels mean so you can match the fixture to the space.
What CSA, cUL and ULC marks mean
In Canada, electrical products such as light fixtures need to be certified by an accredited testing organization before they are sold. You will see certification marks from bodies such as CSA Group, Intertek (ETL) and UL, including the cUL mark, which shows testing to Canadian requirements. ULC refers to ULC Standards, which is best known for fire and life-safety products. For most decorative lighting, the mark you are looking for is CSA, cUL or another recognized Canadian mark on the product label or specification sheet.
A mark from a U.S.-only listing is not the same thing. If a fixture is listed only for the U.S. market, it may not meet Canadian requirements. When in doubt, check the specification sheet or ask us before you order.
The three location ratings
Fixtures are marked for the type of location where they can be installed. The ratings build on each other.
- Dry location: indoor areas not normally exposed to moisture, such as living rooms, bedrooms and hallways.
- Damp location: areas with moisture in the air or occasional condensation, but no direct water contact. Examples include bathrooms away from the shower, covered porches and soffits, and some garages and laundry rooms.
- Wet location: areas where water can directly contact the fixture, including rain, snow, sprinklers and shower spray. Examples include uncovered outdoor walls, pergolas, pathways and fixtures installed inside a shower enclosure.
A wet-rated fixture can be used where a damp rating is required, and a damp-rated or wet-rated fixture can be used in a dry location. It does not work the other way. Never install a dry-rated fixture in a damp space or a damp-rated fixture in a wet space.
Where each rating applies in your home
Bathrooms: most vanity lighting and ceiling fixtures need at least a damp rating. If a fixture is close to, or inside, the tub or shower, it generally needs a wet rating. Our bathroom vanity light guide shows how to apply this in a typical bathroom.
Covered porches and entries: a deep porch that keeps rain off the fixture usually calls for damp-rated lighting. If wind can blow rain or snow onto it, choose wet-rated.
Open exterior walls, decks and gardens: choose wet-rated fixtures. Canadian weather brings freezing, thawing, snow and driving rain, so look for corrosion-resistant finishes and durable materials as well.
Ceiling fans: fans are also rated for dry, damp or wet use. Outdoor patios, gazebos and covered decks need a fan marked for the appropriate location. Our ceiling fan guide covers sizing and features.
How to find the rating on a product
Check three places. First, the product page specifications, which usually list the location rating. Second, the specification sheet or installation instructions, which spell out the approved location and any limits. Third, the label on the fixture itself, which carries the certification mark and the location wording. If the rating is not clear, ask our team before you buy. Do not assume that a fixture that looks weatherproof is rated for the location.
Other factors to consider
- Finish: a wet rating addresses water exposure, but finish and material determine how a fixture looks after years of weather. Coastal and high-humidity areas are harder on finishes.
- Bulbs: use the bulb type and wattage listed on the fixture. Some outdoor fixtures require wet-rated or enclosed-rated bulbs.
- Installation: wiring and sealing matter as much as the rating. Fixtures must be installed per the instructions, and electrical work should be done by a qualified electrician in line with local code requirements.
Where to shop by rating
Start with our outdoor lighting collection for wet-rated and damp-rated choices, and our bath and vanity lighting for bathroom fixtures. You can also read our outdoor lighting tips for layout and style ideas.
Questions?
Lighting specialists since 1996, we are happy to confirm the rating for any fixture before you order. Email info@starlightlighting.ca or call toll-free 1.833.782.7544. We refer customers to local electricians in Calgary and Edmonton, and offer free shipping across Canada on orders from $199.