Are Hand Dryers Waterproof?

Hand dryers are not exactly waterproof, but some hand dryers can withstand direct exposure to specific levels of water and liquids . Waterproofing objects containing electrical components is no easy task. Many of our customers at ProDryers request waterproof hand dryers or units that can handle wash-downs in environments such as food plants. To determine which hand dryers can sustain water and liquids, look at the IP rating. IP stands for Ingress Protection. The Ingress Protection rating is used to specify the environmental protection - electrical enclosure - of electrical equipment. The second digit represents the protection level against liquids. Looking at the second IP number, we can see the following numbers are explained:

0 No protection.
1 Protection against vertically falling drops of water e.g. condensation.
2 Protection against direct sprays of water up to 15° from the vertical.
3 Protected against direct sprays of water up to 60° from the vertical.
4 Protection against water sprayed from all directions - limited ingress permitted.
5 Protected against low pressure jets of water from all directions - limited ingress.
6 Protected against temporary flooding of water, e.g. for use on ship decks - limited ingress permitted.
7 Protected against the effect of immersion between 15 cm and 1 m.
8 Protects against long periods of immersion under pressure.v

At this time, the very best protection a hand dryer can offer is an IPX5. The Dyson Airblade AB14 has an IPX5, which means the electrical is protected from low pressure jets of water from all directions. This would suggest the AB14 Airblade can be sprayed down and cleaned in environments such as food plants. The AB14 cover is made of polycarbonate ABS and it’s also HACCP certified for food safe usage. When customers request units for kitchens where food is being handled and prepared, or when a hand dryer is needed in a food plant, the AB14 is the current best hand dryer for the job.

The Dyson HU02 Airblade V hand dryer is an IPX4. The Airblade V would thus offer protection against water sprayed from all directions such as rain or limited exposure to water. It would not offer protection from low pressure jets of water or offer protection from flooding or immersion.

Other brands such as World Dryer SmartDri offer an IPX4. The World Dryer SlimDri is an IPX3 (not the best choice for protection against water). The Xlerator hand dryer is one of the most popular hand dryers in the world. However, in this case where more liquid protection is needed, we recommend other brands. The Xlerator carries an IPX3.

The Hands-In Style Airblade Hand Dryers offer the best protection against water and liquids with current hand dryer technology. At ProDryers, we offer our expertise in suggesting the best hand dryer for your needs. Call us at 888-50-DRYER or 888-5-3-7937 for expert advice. Keep in mind, new hand dryers will be invented over the years. Call us and make sure you are up to date on the latest protection against water and liquids.