LED strip lights have become an incredibly popular way to add accent lighting to any space. With their bright, energy-efficient, and customizable nature, LED strips allow you to transform a room with ease. Installing LED strip lights is a straightforward process that can typically be done in just a few steps. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to install LED strip lights in your home.

Choose the Right LED Strip Lights

The first step is selecting the right LED strip lights for your needs. Here are some factors to consider:

Length

LED strip lights come in a variety of lengths, from 16ft rolls to 196ft rolls. Measure the area you want to install them in and buy strips accordingly, keeping in mind you can connect multiple strips together. For accent lighting, strips ranging from 16 to 33 ft typically work well.

Light Color

LED strips come in different light colors, including warm white, pure white, and RGB multicolor. Warm white (3000K-3500K) gives off a soft yellow glow, pure white (4000K-6500K) emits a crisp bright light, while RGB strips allow you to customize colors.

Brightness

LED strip brightness is measured in lumens. Standard LED strips emit around 1100-1600 lumens per 16.4ft. High brightness LED strips go up to 2200 lumens for extra illumination. Assess your lighting needs and choose accordingly.

Indoor vs. Outdoor

Indoor and outdoor LED strips have different waterproof ratings. For outdoor areas like patios, look for IP65 or IP67 rated waterproof strips. For indoor use, an IP20 rating is fine.

Adhesive Type

LED strips have self-adhesive backs, but some have stronger glue than others. For surfaces like metal or plastic, look for “super sticky” adhesive.

Gather the Right Installation Supplies

Along with the LED strips, you will need the following supplies:

DC Power Supply – LED strip lights run on direct current (DC) power. You’ll need a compatible LED power supply that can handle the total wattage of your strips.
Connectors – To connect multiple LED strip sections end-to-end.
Adhesive strips – Use additional adhesive strips for surfaces the LED tape won’t stick to well.
LED strip controller – For RGB strips, a controller lets you change lighting colors and modes.
Mounting accessories – Plastic mounting clips, tracks, covers, or aluminum channels to mount the strips neatly.
Wire stripper – To strip wires connecting the power supply and LED strips.
Electric drill – For drilling holes to hide wires between LED strip sections.
Scissors – For cutting the LED strip to desired length.

Planning the Installation

Once you have the supplies, it’s time to plan out your installation:

Mark where you want to install the strips and how they will be positioned. Measure and cut strips to the needed lengths.
Determine how you’ll hide the wires between LED strip sections and where the power supply will go.
For clean installs, plan wiring and power supply placement in inconspicuous locations like behind furniture. Consider getting wire covers.
If mounting LED strips on surfaces painted with special coatings, check that they are compatible and won’t damage the surface.
For outdoor installations, ensure all connections are waterproofed properly.
If needed, install additional mounting accessories like tracks or channels. This provides a clean, seamless installation.

Thorough planning will make the installation process smooth and help achieve the look you want.

Step-by-Step Installation

Once planning is complete, it’s time for installation. Follow these key steps:

1. Prepare the Mounting Surface

For best results, the surface should be clean and dry before attaching the LED strips. Wipe it down with a cloth and rubbing alcohol to remove any oil or dirt.
If the surface is textured or uneven, use primer paint to create a smooth surface for the tape to adhere to.
Painted surfaces should be cured and hardened, as the tape won’t stick to fresh paint.

2. Attach the LED Strip

Peel off the adhesive backing partially to start. Hold the strip up to the surface and press on the exposed adhesive to stick that section in place.
Once aligned, continue peeling the backing and stick the rest of the strip section onto the surface. Apply even pressure for ideal adhesion.
Around corners or edges, cut the strip at the point where it needs to bend. The strip should only bend in one axis to avoid damage.
To install multiple strip sections, carefully align and connect them end-to-end with connectors.

3. Hide and Secure the Wires

Drill small holes to hide wires between LED strip sections and to wherever your power supply will be located.
Feed connector wires through the holes to connect the strips. Pull the wires taut for a clean install without sagging wires.
Use wire covers or sleeves over the connector wires for additional concealment and protection. Secure wires with cable clips if needed.

4. Connect the Power Supply

Confirm the power supply is unplugged from any power source to avoid electric shocks.
Connect the DC output wires from the power supply to the input wires on your LED strips, matching positive-to-positive and negative-to-negative.
Ensure connections have no exposed wire and are insulated with weatherproof tape for outdoor use.

5. Turn On and Test

Before mounting and securing everything permanently, plug in the power supply and test that your LED strips are working as expected.
Check for any loose connections or dark spots indicating a bad connection. Troubleshoot if needed.
For RGB strips, test changing colors and modes with the controller.

6. Adjust and Finish the Installation

If needed, carefully pull up strips to adjust their placement and press back down once aligned correctly.
Go over the strip once more, pressing down firmly to secure the adhesive backing to the surface.
For a clean finish, consider adding aluminum channels, plastic covers, or silicone seals over the LED strips.
Conceal and mount the power supply permanently in its planned location.
Secure and hide all wires to complete a professional, seamless installation.

With these key steps, you can install LED strip lights like a pro. Take care to neatly hide wires and connectors for lighting that looks like it’s integrated seamlessly into your space.

Safety Tips

When installing LED strip lights, keep these safety guidelines in mind:

Always turn off power from the breaker when wiring the power supply to avoid electric shocks.
Do not apply excessive voltage. Follow the voltage rating for your LED strip, which is commonly 12V or 24V DC.
Never connect LED strip lights directly to 110-120V AC power. Always use a compatible DC power supply.
Only make waterproof connections for outdoor LED strips and power supplies to prevent shorts.
Do not install LED strips in areas with excessive heat, humidity, or hazardous materials.
Do not bend or damage the LED circuit board, which can cause strip failures.
Mount and install LED strips securely to prevent falls and injury. Do not suspend strips in mid-air.
For installation over steps, slopes, metal surfaces etc., use additional adhesive solutions like silicone to securely fasten strips.

By following proper precautions, you can safely install LED strips anywhere.

Extra Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips for getting the most out of your new LED strip lights:

Set LED strips to sync to music using sound-activated controllers for cool effects.
Dim LED brightness as needed with a dimmable power supply or dimmer switch.
Use a light diffuser like frosted tape to soften harsh LED brightness if needed.
Install LED strips on the back of furniture to create a cool glow effect.
Use RGB strips to create colorful lighting scenes for parties or movie nights.
Pair colored LEDs strips with RGB light bulbs to match lighting themes in a room.
Attach magnetic strips to create removable accent lighting anywhere.
Install LED strips inside glass vases or bottles for a unique centerpiece.
Use waterproof LED strips to illuminate umbrella holes, gazebos, and outdoor furniture.
Install LED lighting behind mirrors or artwork for dramatic backlighting.

With creative applications, LED strip lights can take your home decor to the next level. Have fun illuminating your space with strips!

Troubleshooting Guide

If your newly installed LED strip lights are not working correctly, here are some troubleshooting tips:

Problem: Strip not turning on at all.

Check connections to the power supply are secure and polarity is correct.
Inspect for any loose wire connections or damage to strip circuits.
Verify the power supply is plugged in and outputs the correct voltage.
Ensure electrical switches/dimmers are turned on and functioning.

Problem: Dark spots at certain points along the strip.

This indicates a bad solder joint or cut trace on the circuit board. Replace the damaged strip section.

Problem: Flickering or flashing strips

Check for loose wire connections, or wires touching causing a short.
Use a higher wattage power supply if underpowered.
Limit strip length to avoid voltage drop. Add more power supply units if needed.

Problem: Strip color fading or diminishing brightness

LEDs may be failing due to age or heat damage. Replace strips if needed.
Add a supplemental power supply to support longer strip lengths.

Problem: Strip not sticking to surface

Clean surface fully and use primer paint if needed for better adhesion.
For problematic surfaces, use silicon adhesive or mounting tracks for better grip.

If problems persist, consult the installation guide or manufacturer specifications for your LED strips to diagnose and solve the issue. With careful troubleshooting, you can get your LED strips lighting up properly again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about installing LED strip lights:

How much do LED strip lights cost?

LED strip lighting is very affordable, with prices ranging from $10 – $30 per 16.4ft reel. RGB and smart LED strips cost more in the range of $50 or more.

What’s the best placement for LED strip lights?

LED strips are highly versatile and can be installed almost anywhere. Popular spots include behind furniture, under cabinets, along staircases, and above open shelving.

Can I cut LED strips to size?

Yes, LED strips can be cut along the cut marks to customize the length as needed. Just ensure not to cut across the copper traces.

How long do LED strip lights last?

The lifespan of quality LED strips is typically 30,000 to 50,000 hours. Used for 8 hours per day, they can last over 15 years.

Are LED strips safe for outdoor use?

Outdoor-rated IP65 or IP67 LED strips are entirely safe and waterproof. Just ensure outdoor wires and connectors are properly sealed.

Do I need special tools to install LED strips?

No, you can install strips using basic household tools like a measuring tape, drill, wire strippers, scissors, level, and screwdriver.

How do I control RGB LED strips?

RGB LED strips need a controller or remote to change lighting colors and modes. Controllers allow timer, music sync, and app control options.

Can LED strip lights be connected to Wi-Fi?

Yes, Wi-Fi-enabled LED strips allow lighting control via smartphone apps and voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home.

Conclusion

Installing LED strip lights is an easy, DIY-friendly process that can make a dramatic difference in your home or workspace. By following the steps outlined here for preparing your installation, mounting the strips, making wiring connections, and adding those finishing touches, you can create professional quality accent lighting to make any space look its best. Have fun unleashing your creativity and customizing with LED strip lighting kits!

How to Install LED Strip Lights