Many people decorate the outdoors with LED strip lights. Outdoor LED strip Lights offer bright lighting and tons of customizability. Plus, it’s a great way to light up your yard or patio for nighttime gatherings. Therefore, LED strips become an excellent choice for outdoor lighting.
When looking for LED strip lights for outdoor use, which are available in a variety of colors and styles, there’s more to consider an IP67 or more level waterproof. But with so many options, how do you know which ones are right for you? Here’s a guide to choosing the best outdoor LED strip light for your home.
Standard LED strip vs Outdoor LED strip?
There are two types of LED strip lights: Standard and Outdoor.
Standard Strip
The waterproof grade for indoor use: IP20 non-waterproof, IP65 silicone gel, IP65 heat shrink tube. Usually also available in a variety of led light colors, from bright white to warm white.
We can usually find LED strip lights under cabinets or shelves, behind TV screens, and on top of bar counters for indoor use only.
Outdoor Strip
The Outdoor LED strip lights are designed for outdoor use. More durable and weather resistant than standard LED strip lights. These led strips are usually IP67 waterproof or more level, meaning they can withstand short periods of immersion in water or heavy rain without damage.
Outdoor LED strip lights are often used in backyards or patios and can be installed in a variety of places such as under stairs or on the edge of a roof.
Which Waterproof Level LED Strip Lights Be Used Outdoors?
When it comes to LED strip lights for outdoor use, the first thing to consider is water resistance. We require an IP rating of IP67 or higher, which indicates the degree of protection against solid objects and water.
IP67 Rated LED Strip Lights (Waterproof)
Many customers will consider using LED strip lights such as IP67 waterproof outdoors, which is currently the most popular and most reliable outdoor waterproof grade. These special waterproof LED strip lights can withstand spray or rain from any direction.
IP68 Rated LED Strip Lights (Waterproof)
For a more durable and waterproof option for the outdoors, you may want to look for IP68-rated LED strip lights. IP68-rated light bars are ideal for use in fountains, ponds, boats, fishing, pool areas, and anywhere lights may be submerged in water.
How to Choose LED Strip for Outdoor?
When choosing outdoor LED strip lights, there are several factors you’ll want to consider as below:
- Purpose of Outdoor Lighting: It is necessary to clarify the purpose of using LED strip lights outdoors, whether it is mainly used for lighting or ambient lighting.
- Consider Water Resistance: Outdoor LED strips are typically used outdoors and may have an IP rating of IP67 or higher.
- Consider Brightness Levels: Outdoor LED strip lights should be bright enough to illuminate the area, but not so bright that they irritate the eyes.
- Variety of Colors: from cool white to warm white, and even an RGB option so you can set the moods for different occasions.
- Length of LED Strip Light: Before purchasing an LED strip, it is important to determine the length you need for your outdoor space.
- Consider the Power Supply: Outdoor LED strip lights need a power supply, and the power supply also needs to be waterproof.
- Installation: choose plug-in waterproof male and female connectors for the outdoor LED strip. In this way, you don’t need to worry about waterproofing, you can just plug it in and use it.
Where to Use Outdoor LED Strip Lights
Some of the most common areas of use when using outdoor LED light strips include:
- Patio
- Christmas decoration
- Pool swimming area
- Gazebo
- The fence
- Cupboard
- Indicator
- Under the stairs
- Plantation
- Architecture
How to Install Outdoor LED Strip Lights?
First of all, you need to measure the length in advance, which is not difficult, just like installing indoor light strips.
- Measure the space you need to install so you can cut the LED strip to the correct length
- Turn on the outdoor LED strips and test that they work
- Ensure that the part where the lamp is installed is flat and clean
- Open the 3M adhesive, and then install the light bar on the plane
- Use a suitable silicone sealant for cut connection points
- To install the LED strip, a waterproof power supply is required
- Use a waterproof socket and turn it on.
Enjoy Your Outdoor LED Strip Lights
If you’re looking for a modern and long-lasting lighting option for your outdoor lighting. I think outdoor LED strip lights are a great option. Whether you want brighter task lighting or more mood lighting.
Plus, they can be installed outdoors anywhere in your home. Pls, remember, to choose an IP rating of IP67 or more level, which is ideal for general waterproof applications. IP68 IP rate is ideal for completely waterproof applications where the lamp may be completely submerged in water.
FAQs
Yes, it can be cut. However, once you’ve cut your outdoor LED strip light, it’s important to follow the proper process to seal it and keep it waterproof.
It mostly depends on where you are installing the led strip. The waterproof strip will be a little heavier than regular light strips. We need to consider installing the waterproof light bar in the profile, and then installing it with the installation clip. This will be more secure and stable.
Warm light, like 2000K-3000K, is less harsh on the eyes. Outdoor lighting is mostly ambiance but still provides enough light to see things around.
The answer is yes. LED strips have become an excellent choice for outdoor lighting. But you need to look for LED strips that are suitable for outdoor use and take into account their water resistance.
The average life expectancy of LED strip lights is approximately 50,000 hours. It mainly depends on where you install it outdoors and the frequency you use it. Generally, the warranty is 3-5 years.