Light strips, better known as LED strips, are flexible circuit boards equipped with small LED lights. These strips are popular due to their flexibility, slim design, and the possibility to illuminate long distances. They offer a wide range of applications, from subtle accent lighting to powerful primary lighting, both indoors and outdoors.
Using LED strips brings a wide range of benefits, making them an attractive choice for both professional installations and DIY projects. This lighting solution focuses on efficiency, durability, and a variety of design possibilities.
LED strips are available in various versions, each with specific features for different projects. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right strip for the application.
| Type of LED Strip | Description | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Monochrome (Single Color) | Emits a single fixed light color (e.g., warm white, cool white). | Cabinet lighting, accent lighting, general lighting. |
| RGB | Enables creation of any desired color by mixing red, green, and blue. | Atmospheric lighting, decorative lighting, backlighting. |
| RGBW / RGBWW | In addition to RGB colors, these include a separate white LED for pure white light (warm or cool). | Applications where both colored and high-quality white light are needed. |
| CCT (Correlated Color Temperature) | Enables adjustment of white color temperature, from warm white to cool white. | Workplaces, kitchens, areas where the lighting ambiance may need to change. |
| Digital / Addressable | Each LED or segment can be controlled individually for dynamic effects. | Advanced light shows, entertainment lighting, interactive installations. |
In addition, chip size, such as SMD5050 or SMD2835, is important for brightness and power consumption per LED. SMD5050 is generally more powerful and brighter than SMD2835.
To make an informed choice, it is important to pay attention to the technical details. These define the performance, durability, and suitability of the LED strip for your project.
For complex installations or if you are unsure about the right specifications, professional advice can help you achieve the best lighting solution.
Generally, installing LED strips is straightforward, but a proper approach is essential for safety and functionality. An installer will pay attention to the following steps:
Below you’ll find answers to common questions about LED strips, based on practical experience of installers and users.
Not everywhere. The ambient temperature, humidity, and the need for waterproofing (IP rating) determine whether a strip is suitable. For outdoor or damp areas, a strip with the proper IP rating (at least IP65) is necessary.
This depends on the voltage (12V or 24V) and the quality of the strip. With 12V strips, voltage drop occurs more quickly over longer runs, resulting in less brightness at the end of the strip. 24V strips can cover longer distances. For very long runs, ‘power injection’ (power supply to both ends of the strip) or using LED repeaters may be required.
Yes, LEDs generate heat. Although they are energy efficient, effective heat dissipation is vital for longevity. An aluminum profile helps to dissipate heat efficiently and significantly extends the lifespan of the LED strip, especially with high light output strips.
An LED strip always requires a suitable power supply (transformer) to convert mains voltage to the correct voltage (e.g., 12V or 24V). The switch is usually placed between the mains and the power supply. For dimmable strips, the dimmer is placed between the power supply and the LED strip, or you use a dimmable power supply.
LED strips offer a modern and flexible lighting solution for almost any conceivable application. By paying attention to essential specifications such as IP rating, lumens per meter, and color temperature, you ensure a durable and functional lighting installation tailored to your wishes. Whether you want to create atmospheric accents in the living room, functional task lighting in the kitchen, or striking light lines in the garden, LED strips provide an aesthetically attractive and energy-efficient solution. Especially for larger or more complex projects, it is advisable to consult a lighting specialist to determine the optimal configuration.