A Comprehensive Guide to Installing LED Strip Lights
Welcome to the user manual for installing best LED light strips! Whether you’ve purchased a Wavelux, Auralux, or Pixel-Free LED strip light, you’re about to experience the next level of lighting that’s revolutionizing the world. LED strip lights offer even room illumination and integrated light for a variety of purposes. With advancements in technology, LED lights are not only efficient and eco-friendly but also durable. So, let’s dive into the installation process together.
Table of Contents
Installation
Accessories
Power Supply
Controllers
FAQ
Precautions
Warranty
1. Installation
To install an led lights for room, we recommend soldering the contacts rather than using strip connectors, especially for larger installations. Soldering provides a more reliable and long-lasting connection. You can refer to the diagrams below for common installation techniques:
When soldering, it’s crucial to use glue and heat shrink tubing on the connection area to ensure a secure hold. Also, double-check the strip’s marking to determine the correct polarity.
2. Accessories
The most common accessory for LED strips is a DC connector. The female end is typically installed on the strip, while the male end is included with most wall-type power supplies. You can also use DC connectors or bare wires when connecting LED strips. Remember to secure the connection area with glue, heat shrink tubing, or electrical tape.
For additional guidance on soldering LED strips, we have a helpful how-to video. Scan the QR code below to access it.
Using Connectors
If you’re using connector-to-connector fittings or other types of connectors to secure your LED tape, refer to the diagrams below. Make sure to secure the LED strip before fitting the connector and avoid any movement after it’s snapped into place. Test each fitting once installed to ensure a secure connection.
<img src="https://www.tdm.vn/image/cache/catalog/product-6249/den-led-buld-lbl-7w-740x740.jpg" />
When using L, T, or X type connections, ensure that the polarity on the strip matches with each new section added. Avoid using snap fit connectors for Pixel-Free LED products.
Cutting LED strips should only be done on the marked cut points. Be careful to cut evenly to utilize both sides of the solder pads. Waterproof connectors provide a better hold and limit the strip’s flexing at the connection area.
When combining multiple LED strips, align the solder pads and solder them together. Glue both sides of the strip at the seam and add clear heat shrink tubing for optimal results.
To securely mount the LED strip, use mounting clips placed approximately 0.3m (1ft) apart. Consider adding additional clips before and after curves. For high-output LED strips, attach them to an aluminum surface to dissipate heat effectively.
3. Power Supply
When selecting a power supply, use a DC Isolated power supply with a ripple wave of less than 5% for optimal performance. Make sure the power supply is rated for at least 20% more than the LED strip’s consumption to avoid damage. Pay attention to the polarity when connecting wires, as incorrect wiring can lead to irreparable damage.
Configurations
Here’s a common configuration for combining multiple LED strips with a single power supply:
Multiple Power Supply Configurations
In situations where the led lights strips consumes a lot of power or when smaller power supplies are necessary, you can use multiple power supplies in a single space. To avoid voltage drop on longer strips, it’s possible to wire a strip from both ends. However, never use more than one power supply with this configuration.
4. Controllers
To use Auralux dimmers between the power supply and LED strip, allocate each strip to its own channel. This ensures proper voltage distribution for each LED strip.
When using multiple RGB or RGBW LED strips on the same dimmer, you can combine the same color on each channel. Make sure to check the voltage and consumption requirements on the LED strip packaging and avoid exceeding the maximum allowance per channel on the dimming controller.
Read more: A Comprehensive Guide to Installing LED Strip Lights
Wall Dimming
If using wall dimmers in combination with dimming controllers, pay attention to the voltage requirements on the dimmer. The diagram below illustrates a low voltage wall dimmer (24V).
Wall Dimming (Color Controller)
Installation Instructions (Mounting)
Using Mounting Clips
To ensure proper mounting, make sure the clips are on the same plane and avoid bending the strip awkwardly. While side-to-side and 360° bending are possible, maintain a minimum bending diameter of 120mm (4.7″).
<img src="https://kingled.vn/data/Product/01F8CFFD-1823-4803-B07A-423C7EA19759/cach-dan-den-led-day.jpg?w=800" />
Installation into Linear Channels or Substrates
Exercise caution when inserting the strip into channels or substrates. LED strips are not designed for sharp bends, so be extremely careful during installation to avoid damage. For long lengths, it’s recommended to have two people handle the installation.
5. FAQ
Why are the LEDs not illuminating?
Check the following items:
Ensure the power is on.
Double-check the polarity (Red to +, Black to -).
Check for a short circuit in the power supply (a light may be visible on the power supply).
Verify if there’s a short circuit caused by automatic short-circuit protection.
Inspect the fuse – if it’s burned, replace it. Carefully check the items mentioned above to ensure the LED strip is functioning correctly.
Why is there inconsistent brightness in the LED?
Check the following items:
Look for an overload in the power supply. If present, add more power supplies.
Determine if there’s excessive loss in a long line between the LED and power supply. If so, use a thicker gauge cable or shorten the leads.
Consider if there are too many LED strips connected in series. Adjust the number of LED strips, keeping them below 5m (16.4ft) for optimal results.
Why is the LED flashing?
Check the following items:
Ensure the connection area is making good contact. If not, resolder or reconnect.
Verify if the power supply is stable. Using an underpowered power supply may cause strobing, flashing, or dropouts after a few seconds.
6. Precautions
Use a 24V DC Isolated Power Supply with a ripple wave of less than 5% and avoid using RC voltage reduction or non-isolated power supplies.
To guarantee sufficient voltage for the LED strip, select a power supply rated for at least 20% more than the strip’s consumption.
Avoid touching the AC power supply when it’s powered on.
Polarity matters! Double-check the wiring to avoid damaging the strip.
Handle the product with care to prevent scratching, distorting, and repeated bending during installation.
Do not submerge the strip in water or use it in swimming pools or hot tubs.
Professional installation is recommended.
Install the strip in spaces without chemicals such as sulfur, acid, or halogen.
The application environment’s temperature should range from -20°C to 45°C.
The atmosphere’s quality should meet or exceed the national secondary standard.
IP33 strips are suitable for indoor use with humidity below 55%.
IP55 gel coating strips can withstand limited water exposure but not long-term high humidity.
IP65 silicone tube waterproof strips can withstand the environment but should avoid extended exposure to high humidity.
IP67 silicone filling waterproof strips are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and can withstand short periods of underwater pressure.
IP68 nano waterproof strips are suitable for indoor and outdoor use and can withstand extended underwater pressure.
Each 5m strip should be connected to a main power supply to ensure proper lighting effect.
Avoid pulling the strip or power supply wire forcefully during installation and use.
The bending diameter of the strip should not be less than 60mm to maintain stability and longevity.
Ensure correct anode and cathode (+/-) wire connections.
Use a stable power supply to prevent damage caused by surge voltage or unstable current.
Protect the product during installation and prevent static discharge.
Place the strip in a well-ventilated area as it may dissipate heat during use.
7. Product Warranty
We provide a three-year warranty for products under normal use. If any faults occur during this period and are confirmed to be quality-related, we will replace the product with the same model free of charge. Please note that the warranty does not cover damage caused by prohibited usage, disassembling, or improper handling resulting in severe appearance damage or deformation.
If you have any questions or concerns about your LED installation, feel free to contact us at info@ellumiglow.com. Click here to download a printable copy of this guide for offline use.
Read more: A Comprehensive Guide to Installing LED Strip Lights
