How to Install LED Strip Lights

LED strip lights are versatile lights useful in an assortment of things, including under cabinet lighting, mood lighting, and accent lighting. They are easy to install and can be customized to create different lighting effects.

In this blog, we go over the steps on how to install LED strip lights. Everything from choosing the right lights to connecting your strip lights to a power source.

You will need the following:

• LED Strip Lights
• A power supply
• Scissors
• Dry cloth or towel
• Strip light connector kit
• A controller (optional)
• A tape measurer

If you’re not a licensed electrician or certified technician, we strongly recommend you contact one to install your LED strip lights.

Take all safety precautions when working with electricity, such as wearing the correct gear, including gloves and safety glasses, and working in a safe environment away from wet or damp locations.

When using a power supply, connect it to the controller before turning on the power. This prevents damage to the controller.

The first step is to choose the right LED strip lights for your needs. There are various factors to consider, including the length of the lights and the type of connector.

• Length: LED strip lights come in a variety of lengths, so measure the area where you want to install the lights before you make a purchase.
• Connector: LED strip lights can be connected using a variety of connectors, including solderless connectors (the contact pads on the strip slide underneath prongs on the connector and are held on by a clasp), screw-on connectors (the connection is held by the tightening of a screw), and snap-on connectors (easy to mate and unmate connection with a snap feature). Choose the type of connector that is most convenient for you.

These are important to ensure that the ideal style and decor you want for your space comes out the way you envision it.

Choose the right location. You can install LED strip lights from a variety of surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, and appliances.

Using a tape measure, measure the length of the area meant for installation. Allow a few extra inches of space for wiggle room.

If needed, cut the LED strip lights to size. While LED strip lights can be cut to size, it's important to cut them at the marked lines. Cutting the lights at any other point could damage the lights.

Check the power requirements of the LED strip lights. LED strip lights require a specific amount of power to operate. It is important to check the power requirements compatibility with your home’s voltage/power requirements. Make sure that the power supply that you are using can provide enough power for the LED strip lights.

Once you have chosen the right LED strip lights, prepare the surface where you want to install them. The surface should be clean, dry, and free of dust and dirt. You can simply wipe the surface with a cloth or towel. Be sure to dry it from moisture to secure the strip in place.

If the surface is not smooth, you may need to use a primer before applying the LED strip lights. This will help the lights adhere properly.

1. Connect LED strip lights using strip connectors. Slide the cut end of the strip into the open end of the connector. Pay attention to the labels on the strip lights and the connector. Securing your strip light correctly will make it easy to extend the strip and keep your lighting connection stable and strong.
2. Apply the LED strip lights. Peel off the adhesive backing from the LED strip lights and press them firmly onto the surface. Be sure to press out any air bubbles.
3. Connect the lights to a power supply.
4. (Optional) If you are using a controller, connect it to the LED strip lights according to the instructions that came with the controller.

Once the LED strip lights are installed, test them to make sure they are working properly. You can do this by turning on the power source or adjusting the settings on the controller if you used one. Take a moment to test any remote, app or voice controls included with the strip lights.

Turn on your LED strip lights. Once the LED strip lights are connected to the power supply, they should turn on. If they do not turn on, check the connections to make sure they are secure.

That's it! You have now successfully installed LED strip lights. Enjoy your new accent lighting!