Exploring the Benefits of LED Light Strips + Installation Tips

Flexible and versatile, LED light strips are the ideal lighting solution if you’re looking for creative ways to breathe life and add more drama to your interior. From adding a dash of multicolours to your bedroom to creating a modern and subtle ambience in your bathroom or kitchen, the options you have with this lightning solution are truly endless.

What is LED Strip Light?

As its name suggests, a LED strip light is a long strip (or tape) of small LED chips that are placed at regular intervals. The strip is available in varying lengths and depths and it is narrow enough enabling great versatility. This means that you can install it anywhere you might need it, like wardrobes, along banisters, around doorways or under cabinets. When switched on, the chips light up, providing stunning accent lighting.

Here are some of the benefits you will experience once you install LED light strips.

Energy Savings

When compared to regular lights, LEDs are much more energy-efficient. Not only do traditional lights spend more energy but they also increase the room temperature as they emit heat. Research has shown that LED lights are 95% more efficient than normal light bulbs. Plus, their light efficiency doesn’t impact their light radiance.

Variety of Colours

LED strips can emit a wider range of colours than conventional light fixtures. Aside from the normal warm white and cool white, they are also available in a colour changing RGB option. The most basic models offer around 16 static colours and 4 dynamic modes. The more advanced models can be used with DMX systems to create stunning stage displays.

Discrete Feature

Hidden or concealed light schemes are those in which the light fixture remains hidden and only the emitted light can be seen. LED strip lights fit well in this category as they have a very compact design and will fit in most places that other types of lighting cannot, such as bookcases, shelves, alcoves etc.

The Different Types of LED Strip Lights

There are two main types of LED strip lights: plug-and-play or mains-wired. Both have their distinct benefits. The plug-and-play type is the perfect option for those looking for a quick solution as it can be installed within minutes without the need for an electrician. Once you’ve measured the length of the strip you need, you just have to cut it appropriately, peel the adhesive backing, and secure the strip in place before plugging it in and switching it on. The downside of this type is that the strip is shorter than the wired alternative. This may lead to less versatility and issues when lighting up larger areas. But when lighting up a smaller area, such as a bedroom headboard, this option will do the job just fine. Wired LED strip lighting offers more flexibility, but it is not as easy to install – you may need the help of a professional. With lengths ranging from 1m to 5m, wired LED strips are ideal for more permanent installations.

Are All LED Strip Lights Dimmable?

Cold, bright LED lights aren’t your only option anymore. Thanks to the great improvements in technology, today you can find dimmable LED light strips in various colours which are ideal for creating the mood and ambience you want.

Are LED Light Strips Waterproof?

The LED strip itself isn’t waterproof but it can be bought with built-in waterproof casing, so you can use them in wet areas safely.

How to Install LED Strip Lights?

Installing strip lights is quite easy and requires very little skills. Generally, they come with an adhesive backing that keeps them in place. All you have to do is pull off the covering and press them to the surface where you want them installed. The next step is to connect them to a power source. Strip lights work on either 12V or 24V low voltage power, so you can’t wire them to your standard household circuit. Doing so may cause the chips to explode, which will ruin your lights. So, when searching the market, your best bet is looking for strip lights that come with a power adapter that plugs in line with the strips or can be purchased separately.