Are you looking to add some extra light and style to your space? If so, then consider using LED strip lights! They are versatile in adding illumination and color to almost any area. Not only are they low-cost and energy-efficient, but their installation is fast.
With LEDs becoming increasingly affordable, it’s easier than ever to spice up the walls and furniture in any room. Whether you’re brightening up your living room or adding color to the entry hall, LED strip lights are a great way to create mood lighting anywhere. Extending already-installed led strips allows you to create even more custom effects with minimal effort.
This blog post will detail how to extend led strip lights with tutorials on what supplies should be used, easy methods for installation, and possible safety concerns. Read on for expert advice on bringing life into your space with extended LED lights!
Is It Safe?
The safety of LED strip lights is one of the most important considerations before installation. LEDs produce very little heat and are often not connected directly to a power source, so there’s no risk of electric shock. However, it’s best to use an authorized technician for any major electrical work, such as connecting multiple strips together.
Before extending your existing strip lights, make sure you read up on their specifications and operating voltage– incorrect wiring can create a hazardous environment. It’s also important to ensure that all accessories used are compatible with each other in order to avoid any potential problems during installation.
What Will You Need?
To get started, you’ll need a few supplies.
- LED strip lights (already installed)
- Solderless connectors
- Extension cable
- Wire cutter/stripperHeat shrink sleeve (optional)
Once you have these items, the next step is to install the extended led strips.
10 Easy Steps on How to Extend Led Strip Lights:
The installation process is simple and straightforward. The first step is to cut off the existing LED strip to the desired length, but make sure not to cut off more than you need.
1. Cut the Existing Led Strip:
Locate where you want to start the extension and cut off the strip using wire strippers. If you plan to add a solderless connector, leave the ends of the cut strip with two inches of extra wire. Additionally, if the extension is going to be longer than three feet, cut off the strip in three-foot segments.
2. Prepare the Extension Cable:
Cut both ends of the extension cable to size, then strip away about 1/4 inch of insulation from each end. You can use wire strippers or scissors to do this. Be careful not to cut too far.
3. Connect Both Strips:
Once prepped, twist each exposed wire together according to your LED strips’ requirements (consult manual). If desired, you can use a heat shrink sleeve or electrical tape for extra protection. If you are using solderless connectors, make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.
4. Attach Solderless Connectors:
Slip solderless connectors onto each end of the joined wires, making sure they are firmly in place. Try to place the connectors in a way that makes them easier to remove when needed. As an extra precaution, use electrical tape to secure them.
5. Connect the Extension Cable:
Connect the extension cable to each end of the joined strips, making sure that the positive and negative wires are connected properly. Again, use electrical tape or heat shrink to secure the connections if desired. It will also help to ensure a good connection.
6. Secure Connections:
Use zip ties or adhesive tape to secure the connection and ensure it stays intact. This will help ensure that your lights won’t be pulled apart by accidental tugging, so make sure you do this step well! If you plan to hang the lights, make sure to use zip ties around the connections to keep them in place.
7. Connect Extension Cable to Power Source:
Once everything is secured, connect the extension cable to a power source using LED strip connectors or solderless plugs (depending on what type of connector you chose). Double-check all connections before turning on the power switch. Always ensure that the connections are secure and in the proper direction (positive to positive, negative to negative).
8. Test the Lights:
Turn on the power switch and test to make sure that your LED lights are working properly, paying attention to any flickering or dimming. If there is a problem, immediately turn off the power switch and check your connections again. Additionally, make sure that the lights are not too hot to touch.
9. Install and Hang Lights:
Depending on where you’re installing your LED strip lights, you may need to use mounting hardware and clips. Make sure to read all manufacturer instructions carefully before proceeding with the installation. You can also check out YouTube tutorials for proper placement and hanging tips.
10. Enjoy Your New Lighting Setup!
And now it’s time to bask in the glory of your newly extended LED strips! Depending on how creative you got with the installation, you can now admire your handiwork or simply enjoy a nice illuminated area. Remember, you can always add to your lighting setup down the line.
By following these ten steps, you know how to extend LED strip lights properly. Now that you’ve mastered this skill, why not try to install them in a different room or add some custom designs for a more personalized look? Have fun, and enjoy your new lighting setup!
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
1. Use Extension Cables: When extending LED strip lights, it’s important to use extension cables similar to your LED strips. This will ensure that you get the best connection and performance.
2. Use Connectors: Connectors can be a convenient way to join two strips together without having to use soldering. Just make sure that the connectors are compatible with your LED strips and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
3. Secure Connections: To ensure your LED lights don’t come apart, it’s important to secure the connections using zip ties or adhesive tape. This will keep everything in place and help protect from accidental tugging.
4. Check Connections: Before turning on the power switch, always double-check all connections to make sure they’re secure and properly connected (positive to positive and negative to negative).
5. Have Fun: Installing LED strip lights can be a great opportunity for creative expression! Feel free to play around with colors and placement for a more personalized look.
By following these ten steps and five additional tips, you now have all the information necessary to extend LED strip lights safely and effectively! Have fun while installing, and enjoy your new lighting setup!
5 Things You Should Avoid
1. Avoid Using the Wrong Type of Extension Cables: Make sure you use extension cables that are of the same type as your LED strips. Otherwise, you may not get the best connection and performance.
2. Avoid Using Incompatible Connectors: Connectors must be compatible with your LED strips to ensure a safe installation, so read all manufacturer instructions before proceeding.
3. Avoid Leaving Connections Unsecured: To prevent accidental tugging, always use zip ties or adhesive tape to secure the connections between LED strips and extension cables.
4. Avoid Cutting Led Strips Shorter Than Recommended: Always follow manufacturer recommendations regarding how short an LED strip can be cut to avoid malfunctioning or damaged lights.
5. Avoid Overloading Circuits: Be aware of how many lights you’re connecting together and make sure you don’t exceed the recommended wattage for your circuit. Otherwise, you may overload it and cause damage to your LED strip lighting setup.
By avoiding these five mistakes, you can ensure that your LED strip lighting setup is both safe and effective!
5 Precautions You Can Take While Extending LED Strip Lights
1. Test Connections: Before extending your LED strip lights, make sure to test all your connections. This is especially important if you’re using a soldering iron or a power soldering gun to extend the lights.
2. Use Waterproof Adhesive: If you’re extending LED strip lights in an outdoor area, make sure that all connections are well-sealed with a waterproof adhesive. This will protect from any water damage and ensure the longevity of your lighting setup.
3. Wear Safety Gear: Before starting your project, always put on protective glasses, gloves, and clothing to prevent any potential hazards like cuts or electric shocks.
4. Unplug Power When Not in Use: Never leave the power switch turned “on” when you’re not using the LED strips. Unplugging them ensures there won’t be any accidental shocks or fires.
5. Try Out Different Colors: Have fun with your LED strips by experimenting with different colors and effects. Test out a few options to find the best look for your space.
With these five precautions, you can ensure that your LED strip lighting setup is both safe and effective.
Can You Connect 2 Led Strip Lights Together?
Yes, you can connect two LED strip lights together. The easiest way to do this is with solderless connectors, which provide a quick, easy, and secure connection between the strips.
Alternatively, you can use twisted wires to join two strips together but wrap the connections in electrical tape or heat shrink tubing for added protection. When connecting multiple lengths of the LED strip together, it’s important to remember that each length needs its own power supply and control system. Otherwise, they won’t work properly as one long strip light!
Additionally, you should always use the same type of extension cords and connectors as your LED strips, as this will help ensure your connection is secure and safe.
With the right tools and knowledge, extending your LED strip lights is an easy task that provides plenty of flexibility for lighting up different areas of your home or business!
How Can You Power Both Ends of Led Strip?
In order to power both ends of your LED strip lights, you will need to make sure that the voltage and wattage are the same on each end. This means that one end of the strip must be connected to a dedicated DC power supply, while the other end can be connected directly to an AC outlet or a 12V battery.
You can also use separate power supplies for each side in order to maintain a balance between the two strips and prevent any potential damage due to overloading or overheating. Additionally, if you’re using more than two strips, it’s important to use additional adapters and connectors in order to create a safe connection between them.
You can enjoy bright lighting with minimal risk of damage to your setup by properly powering both ends of your LED strip lights. So get creative and have fun while creating a beautiful lighting display!
Good luck with adding extra light sources to your home or business! With these tips on extending LED strip lights safely and effectively, you can create amazing displays full of color and brightness.
Conclusion
Whether you want to extend led strip lights around a room or down a hallway, this is definitely doable. However, it’s important to take into consideration what kind of length increase you need and what type of strips you’re using. The overall setup process is relatively easy, and most people can complete the task without mishaps. One way or another, with the right approach and materials, you will end up with an amazing result – a seamless led strip light setup that’ll transform your place!
With this in mind, making the switch from regular lights to LED stripe lighting may provide you with great comfort when targeting areas where lighting is preferred. Finally, don’t forget before tackling other larger tasks in electronics – stay safe and read up appropriately on all necessary information first!
Hopefully, the article on how to extend led strip lights has provided you with the necessary knowledge to complete such a task. Good luck with your next lighting endeavor!