LED strip lights are a great way to add colour and powerful lighting to any type of room or space. They come in a variety of different forms and colours.
One thing that many like about LED strip lights are how versatile they are - they providing effective lighting or decor. But, with such a range on the market, it can be hard to decide which type of strip lights that you want.
Here's our guide on LED strip lighting.
How do LED strip lights work?
As you know, strip lights are also commonly referred to as fairy lights. They are a strip of lights. However, LED strip lights are a little bit different.
A LED strip light has a flexible circuit board that is filled with LED lights. It's basically a LED tape of lighting. For years, these have been used as decorative lighting - particularly for holidays or accent pieces. This is changing, now.
The strips can be varying different lengths and depths. They can provide various colours and designs. By using LED strip lights, you're saving money and energy. Not to mention, most LED strip lights are actually dimmable.
How to choose the right one for you
With such a large range of LED lights, how do you know you're buying the right one for you?
Plug and play LED strip lights are a great choice for you, these allow you to peel off the adhesive backing and securing the strip in your desired location before plugging them in.
These are great for rooms where you have a feeling that you won't be keeping them there. It's a great alternative for you.
For larger areas or permanent installations, a mains wired LED strip lighting will give you a little more versatility. When you're installing your LED strip lights, you will need a LED transformer. Obviously, this is for the more committed type of lighting.
This is great for accent lighting, or rooms that you know you will keep the lights in. Remember, LED strip lights come in a range of different colours and temperatures. You can even get multicoloured. If this is what you're looking for, mains wired could be a perfect choice.
If you're looking for strip lights for outdoor use, you have to ensure that the LED strip lights have a durable PVC body. Make sure they say that they're suitable for outdoor use, and are impact resistant.
Every single LED lighting strip will state what they are suitable for.
How long do they last?
This is a great question, as they obviously can't be replaced as easily as a bulb or fixture light. In general, LED lights boast a life expectancy of about 50,000 hours - this is around six years of continuous use. Over time, you'll see their output getting a little lower but six years is the general rule of thumb.
For LED strips, you have another factor to consider. Over time, the adhesive strip can degrade and lead to your LED lights falling off your wall or ceiling. For this reason, you need to place them in a safe setting.
If you think these types of lights are for you, then LED is definitely the way to go.