When you look at modern interior design, you’ll see many contemporary lighting solutions integrated throughout the space. One of which is LED strip lights! Unlike most light fixtures, LED strip lights are pretty unique in terms of their construction. Nevertheless, it’s versatile enough to keep up with various lighting requirements and highly energy-efficient that you’ll never consider returning to traditional fixtures!
So, are you curious about what LED strip lights can do to your space? If that’s the case, here’s everything you need to know about this extraordinary lighting!
Understanding LED Strip Lights
When you think of a lighting fixture, the first thing that you’ll most likely picture is a light bulb enclosed in an outer frame or shade. While most fittings are designed that way, LED strip lights take a different approach.
LED strip lights are ribbon-like circuit boards with LED chips on one side and adhesive backing on the other. It has no outer covering, so you’ll see the circuit board throughout. However, some strip lights have a different style wherein the chips are not visible.
One of the primary and most notable characteristics of an LED strip light is its flexibility. Also, it’s available in different colour options and is incredibly efficient! More often than not, you’ll find strip lights outlining TVs, furniture pieces, cabinetry, displays, and more.
Types of LED Strip Lights
There are several kinds of LED strip lights. If you proceed to shop before knowing them, you might get too overwhelmed and not be able to purchase the strip lights that are suitable for your installation. So, to help you make the best choices, here are a few of the most basic types of strip lights you need to know!
- Single-Colour – Single-colour LED strip light can only produce one colour, whether it’s from the colour wheel or the colour temperature scale. This type is perfect if you’re sure you won’t get tired of that shade. Also, you can use it as task lighting or ambient lighting in different areas of your home!
- RGB – An RGB LED strip light gives you access to thousands of colours in the colour wheel. It gives you more diversity and is perfect if you like hosting themed parties and events!
- RGB + W – What makes an RGB + W strip light different from an RGB strip is its dedicated white LED chip. So, whenever you want a break from all the festive colours, you can set your lights to white.
- CCT – If RGB gives you access to the colour wheel, CCT gives you access to the entire colour temperature spectrum. This is your partner if you love changing the ambience of your home to fit your mood and activity!
Considerations for Choosing LED Strip Lights
When considering the versatility of LED strip lights, it’s natural to think they can do so because of their many varieties. Similar to the types, you might not get the strip lights you need if you do not consider various aspects. So, what should you look into when choosing strip lights?
Brightness and Lumens Output
LED strip lights have varying lumens output. The question is, how do you determine the lumens output that you need? The amount depends on the size of your space. To make it easier, search for online lumens calculators and input the necessary details. Then, you can use the result as a reference when checking for lumens count.
In addition, the brightness of your strip lights should also be appropriate for the activities you do in that area. You’ll need brightener strip lights in your study room so you can concentrate and work comfortably. However, you don’t need that same brightness level in your bedroom because you’ll be resting there.
Colour Temperature and RGB Options
Colour temperature can influence the atmosphere of the space. Therefore, depending on the ambience you want, your strip lights’ colour will vary. Cool white and natural white can create an environment suitable for working and completing tasks safely and efficiently. On the other hand, warm white light can create a cosy and relaxing atmosphere.
Regarding colour options for ambience, it’s better to choose colour-changing versions (CCT, RGB or RGB + W) to change the setting whenever you prefer.
Waterproof Ratings for Outdoor Use
Besides brightness level and colour, LED strip lights also come in various IP ratings. For indoor use (areas away from water sources), you can use a strip light with an IP20 rating. However, your strip lights should have an IP65 rating for the bathroom and outdoors. Anything that will be exposed to water or will be used for outdoor applications should at least be IP65-rated to ensure that it will not get damaged.
Installation and Placement Considerations
The installation of LED strip lights is pretty straightforward. You only need to follow the mounting guidelines provided with the model and follow it step-by-step. During installation, you’ll most likely require a strip light (of course) and an LED driver. To ensure a clean set-up, you should consider mounting your strips in an area where you can tuck the LED driver away.
As for positioning your LED strips, the best areas to use them are under the cabinets, along the toe kicks, under the shelves, under the bed and sofa, behind your TV and computer screen, etc.
Above all, the most crucial reminder when installing your strip lights is to always be safe! Call an electrician if you’re unsure about your skills and are not confident in DIY-ing the installation. If you choose to do it alone, always switch off the main power supply before connecting anything. Also, if you mount your strips in high places, get a stable ladder and don’t just step on random furniture.
Conclusion: Illuminating Spaces with LED Strip Lights
Always consider your LED strips’ colour, brightness level, and IP rating when choosing them. That way, you’ll be able to find a suitable model that will make your intended application possible! So, if you’re contemplating getting strip lights for your space, visit our website, Simple Lighting. We have an extensive collection of LED strip lights and various lighting solutions!
