qualities and technical characteristics. There are certain criteria that we can apply to help us determine what is the right type of striplight to use in any given situation. To prevent problems, consider the following 7 must-know TIPS:
#1. Line-Voltage vs. Low Voltage
The first consideration is what voltage to use (usually 120V, 12V, or 24V). This will depend on the application and other practical considerations for installation. Line-voltage (120V) striplights come in spools of 50 metres. This allows for installation of long stretches without the need to splice various sections, thus saving labor costs and time when installing. These tapelights can be cut every half metre (50cm).
On the other hand, most 12V and 24V striplights come in 5 metre spools. They are excellent options for use in boats, trailers, kitchens, and wet locations, including swimming pools and fountains, where low voltage is required for safety reasons. The cutting unit for most low voltage products is 5cm. They require a power adapter (DC12 V and DC 24V, respectively). It is critical to ensure that you use the right power adapter for the wattage and length of the striplight that you choose to employ.
#2. Length of striplight and number of LEDs per metre
Regardless of the brand to be used, LED striplights come in many different models, and the number of LEDs per metre vary. Usually, striplights come with 30, 60, or 90 LEDs per metre. There are some products featuring also 75, 120, and 144 LEDs per metre for certain special applications. Specialty striplights used as components for machinery and high-tech applications are also available.
Wide Loyal’s LED Striplight PRO (120V, 50m spool) has 60 high-output LEDs per metre. Each chip emmits an impressive 23 lumens, making it one of the brightest of its kind in the market.
Some manufacturers offer products containing 120 or 144 LEDs per metre, which are basically double strips. They generate a lot of heat, and are usually sold without a silicon sleeve or any other protection to prevent them from burning and to allow the heat to dissipate. Beware!
#3. Dust and Water Protection Grade
LEDs are sensitive to water and can be damaged by the action of ambient dust. There is a wide range of striplight protection grades. One recognized international guideline is the IP standard, which is comprised of two numbers: the first one denotes the water protection class, and the second one indicates the level of protection against dust:
Type D is not recommended because the tubing turns yellow over time, and is easily damaged by chlorine, UV rays, and heat.
The protection grade is critical when comparing prices. Purchasers often overlook this feature, assuming that all products offer the same protection level.
