Get Ready to Shine: Essential Tools for Your LED Strip Light Installation
LED strip lights have become more and more popular due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan – LEDs can last up to 50,000 hours with proper care and maintenance. But what really boosts their popularity is their versatility and customisability. LED strip lights can be used in various applications, such as under-cabinet lighting and accent lighting.
And for those who are just starting to use LED strip lights, there’s one question we all ask at one point: “What LED strip lights installation tools do I need?”
That’s all we’ll be talking about in this article. Here, we’ll list and explain the essential tools needed for a successful and safe DIY LED strip light installation. And that’s the highlight of this article: safety.
The right tools can help you install LED strip lights properly and safely. But if you’re unsure about doing it yourself, we strongly suggest getting the help of qualified electricians to do it for you, especially if there's complex wiring that needs to be done.
Getting Started Right: Tools for Measuring and Planning
Measuring Tape
It is crucial to have an accurate measurement for planning your LED strip light installation. A measuring tape is used to accurately measure the exact length of strip lights needed, the spacing between runs, and where the lights will be placed.
Ruler or Straight Edge
Don’t trust your eyes–use a ruler to ensure clean, straight cuts and accurate positioning of your LED strip lights. Especially in a long strip, a slight misalignment at one end could mean a big gap on the other end.
Pencil or Marker
Use a pencil or marker to create visible markings on the LED strip lights or on the surface where you are mounting them. Saves you a lot of time from back and forths when installing the lights.
Making the Right Connections: Tools for Cutting and Joining
Sharp Scissors or Utility Knife
What’s the best way to cut LED strip lights? Sharp scissors are a go-to, but a utility knife is also a good option. Always make sure that what you’re cutting the LED strip lights with is sharp. Otherwise, you could end up damaging them instead. Also, be careful to cut only at the marked points.
LED Strip Light Connectors (Solderless)
A solderless connector simplifies joining LED strip lights since it allows for easy and secure electrical connections without the need for soldering the electrical parts. There are various types to choose from: straight, corner, or T-shaped. Connectors can also vary based on pin count: 2-pin and 4-pin (for RGB strip lights).
Soldering Iron, Solder, and Flux
These are for advanced DIY enthusiasts who prefer this method of connecting LED strip lights over the solderless one. Soldering provides a more permanent and sturdy connection, especially for longer runs or in areas with potential movement.
Wire Strippers
Use these for connecting the LED strip lights to a power supply. This tool helps you to safely remove the insulation of the wires without damaging the conductors inside. Again, if you’re unsure how to use this, get help from a qualified electrician.
Crimping Tool
You utilise this tool when you’re using crimp connectors. This tool creates a secure and reliable connection between your wires. The crimping tool creates a solderless connection by deforming the connector into the wire.
Keeping Them in Place: Tools for Mounting
Adhesive Backing
The most basic type of mounting for your LED strip lights. An adhesive is usually pre-applied at the back of your strip light, allowing for easy and fast mounting. Just peel and stick to the surface. The biggest downside, though, is that it’s not a reliable mounting method for long-term or heavy-duty applications.
Mounting Clips and Screws
Usually made with plastic, these are used for fixing flexible strip lights, especially on uneven surfaces or for longer runs. Screws are used to mount this to surfaces so you might need a screwdriver. Check if you need Phillips or a flathead screw.
Double-Sided Adhesive Tape
A stronger option than the pre-applied adhesive, although this is still not a permanent mounting solution. Use this for projects that are expected to be taken down. Remove with care so as not to damage the surface paint.
Getting the Power Right: Tools for Connecting to Power and Control
Power Supply (Driver)
LED strip lights usually only need 12v or 24v power. So, directly connecting them to the 230v mains will not be suitable for the lights, and there's also a safety risk. A driver safely converts the higher mains voltage to the lower voltage that the LED strip light needs. Make sure to get the driver that matches the power needed by your LED strip lights correctly.
Wire Connectors (Terminal Blocks, Screw Terminals)
To safely connect the power supply to the LED strip lights, use wire connectors like terminal blocks, which secure two or more wires together. Using the right connectors helps create a robust link, ensuring a stable and consistent power supply. Keep a screwdriver beside you when installing this.
LED Controller
This is an optional tool. An LED controller is used for setups that have dimming or colour-changing features. You might need to use a small screwdriver or a USB cable to set this up.
Safety First: Tools for a Safe and Professional Finish
Insulating Tape
Look out for any exposed wires and cover them with insulating tape to protect your LED strip lights from electrical failures and ensure the safety of people around the lights.
Cable Clips or Ties
Proper cable management is crucial to prevent tripping hazards or strain on the wire connections. Other benefits of a tidy wiring system are damage prevention, easy maintenance, and reduced electrical risk.
Good cable management also ensures a clean aesthetic, and we’re all about that when it comes to LED strip lights.
Ready to Install Your LED Strip Lights?
Now that you have this comprehensive list of LED strip light tools to properly and safely install your LED strip lights, grab your toolbox and check the contents to ensure you have everything you need.
Setting Yourself Up for Success: The Right Tools for Your LED Strip Light Project
Remember that each tool discussed in this article is used not only for efficiency but also for safety, yours and the people who will be around the LED strip lights. Using the correct tools while installing also guarantees a professional-looking LED strip light installation.
Of course, skill and experience will still be major factors, so if you’re still unsure even after reading this, consider hiring a qualified electrician to install your lights. Safety should always be your number one priority. Happy installation!
