Led strip lights are a popular and efficient way to light up spaces. However, sometimes the lighting provided by these strips is not enough. This blog post will provide tips on how to extend led strip lights. You can get the most out of your LED strip lights by following the tips in this post. Keep reading to learn more.
Summary: There are a couple of ways to extend the life of your LED strip lights. One is to simply replace them when they start to wear down, but you can also protect them by using a protective sleeve or cover. Additionally, you can limit the amount of light that reaches the LEDs by positioning the light fixtures correctly.
What Causes Led Strip Lights to Stop Working
One of the most common causes of LED strip lights ceasing to work is due to a loose connection. Over time, the connection between the LED strip and the power source can become loose. This can be due to several factors, such as transportation vibrations or age. Another common cause of LED strip lights not working is water damage. If the strip has been exposed to moisture, it can short out and stop working.
Additionally, moisture can enter the strip and cause it to malfunction if the strip is not properly sealed before being installed. The other main reason that LED strip lights to stop working is due to a faulty power supply. If the power supply is not providing enough power to the strip, the strip will not work.
Finally, if the LED strip is not receiving enough power, it will not work. Again, the most common reason for this is a loose connection between the power supply and the strip.
Why You Should Extend Your Led Strip Lights
You might want to extend your LED strip lights for several reasons. One reason is that you may want to add more light to a space. For example, if the original strip is not providing enough light, you can add an extension to increase the amount of light. Another reason to extend your strip lights is to add more length to them. This can be helpful if you need to light a long space, such as a hallway.
Extending your strip lights can also help you reach difficult-to-reach places. If you need to light a space that is hard to reach with the original strip, an extension can help you to reach it. Finally, extending your strip lights can give you more flexibility in terms of design. If you want to change the look of your space, adding an extension can help you to do so.
10 Easy Ways How to Extend Led Strip Lights
1. Use a Solderless Connection
Using a solderless connection is the way to go if you are looking for a quick and easy way to extend your LED strip lights. This method is also known as the “scotch lock” method. All you need to do is strip the end of the LED strip and twist it around the exposed wires of the extension. Once you have done this, you can use a screwdriver or another tool to tighten the connection.. This method is not as reliable as other methods, but it is the easiest to do.
2. Use Electrical Tape
You can use electrical tape if you are looking for a quick and easy way to extend your LED strip lights. This method is not permanent, but it will be good enough to last for a few days or weeks. To do this, measure the length of LED strip light you need. Then, cut the electrical tape to that length. Next, peel off the tape’s backing and attach it to the end of the LED strip light. Finally, press the two ends of the LED strip light together until they are firmly attached. You can use a few pieces of tape to secure the connection if you need to.
3. Use a Higher Quality Power Supply
You can use a higher-quality power supply if you want a more permanent way to extend your LED strip lights. This method is more expensive, but it will be more reliable and last longer. You can buy a power supply online or at a hardware store. First, find an appropriate power supply for the LED strip length you want to extend. Then, solder the power supply to the end of the LED strip. Finally, use electrical tape to secure the connection and prevent shorts.
4. Use a Splitter Cable
You can use a splitter cable if you want a temporary or semi-permanent solution. This will allow you to connect two strips of lights together physically. You can buy a splitter cable online or at your local hardware store. First, identify the positive and negative sides of your strip lights. You will need to solder the female end of the splitter cable to the positive and negative sides of your strip lights.
Then, connect the male end of the splitter cable to the positive and negative sides of your second strip light. This will physically connect the two strips of lights together.
5. Use a Wire Harness
You can use a wire harness if you want a more permanent solution. You’ll need to solder the wires to the LED strips and then connect them to the power supply. This is a more difficult option, but it will give you a more professional look. First, cut the wires to the length you need. Then, strip the ends of the wire and solder them to the LED strips. Finally, connect the wire harness to the power supply. This is a difficult option, but it will give you a more professional look.
6. Use an Extension Cord
You can use an extension cord if you want a quick and easy way to extend your LED strip lights. This method is not permanent but will work if you need a temporary solution. Make sure to use an extension cord that is rated for the same wattage as your LED strip lights. If you are unsure, you can always err on the side of a higher wattage cord.
7. Use Wire Splices
Wire splices are a more permanent solution and will give you a more professional look. This method is similar to using an extension cord but requires soldering. You’ll need to find the end of your LED strip light that you want to splice into and cut it. Next, find the matching wire colors and twist them together.
Once the wires are twisted together, solder them and cover the connection with heat shrink tubing. You can use electrical tape if you don’t have heat shrink tubing. Finally, reconnect your power supply and test your lights.
8. Use a Male-to-female Connector
If you want a semi-permanent solution, you can use a male-to-female connector. This will allow you to connect two strips together without soldering. You will need to use electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to secure the connection and prevent any shorts. First, cut your strip light in half at the appropriate spot.
Then, twist the positive (red) wires of each half together and do the same for the negative (black) wires. Finally, screw on the connector and tape or heat shrink the connection. If you use a waterproof strip, use a waterproof connector.
9. Use a Y-splitter
If you want to split your LED strip light into two, you can use a Y-splitter. This is a quick and easy solution if you want to add more lights without having to solder. First, you will need to locate the end of your LED strip light. A small arrow on the strip will indicate which side is the beginning. Next, take your Y-splitter and align it with the end of the strip light.
Make sure that the two arrows are pointing in the same direction. Now, take your second strip of lights and align it with the other side of the Y-splitter. Once again, ensure the arrows are pointing in the same direction. Now, you can plug your Y-splitter into an outlet and enjoy your new lights.
10. Use an L-connector
If you want to turn your LED strip light 90 degrees, you can use an L-connector. This is a quick and easy way to change the direction of your LED strip light without having to cut or solder the strips together. First, cut your LED strip light at the desired location. Next, take the L-connector and insert the two bare wires into the solderless connector. Finally, connect the L-connector to your power supply.
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How Much Does It Cost to Extend LED Strip Lights?
The cost of extending your LED strip lights will depend on the method you choose. First, using an extension cord, you can expect to pay around $5-10. Next, you can use wire splices or a male-to-female connector for a more permanent solution. These methods will cost around $10-20. Finally, if you want to split your LED strip light into two, you can use a Y-splitter. This will cost around $15-20.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Join Led Strip Lights Together?
Sure, you can join LED strip lights together. This will allow you to create brighter and more versatile lighting options for your project or space. Additionally, by joining multiple light strips together, you’ll be able to create a wider variety of colors and patterns that would not be possible with just one light strip.
How Long Can You Extend Led Strips?
it depends on a variety of factors, including the type of LED strip you are using and how often it is being used. However, generally speaking, LED strips can be effectively extended for around 5-10 years if they are properly cared for. Keep in mind that the life expectancy of each individual LED strip will vary depending on its usage and general condition. So, always check the manufacturer’s instructions before using your strips.
Can Led Strip Lights Be Extended?
Yes, LED strip lights can be extended using commonly available connectors. The most common connector is the T-connector. To extend a T-connector, you will need a T-adapter (available at most hardware stores) and an LED strip light. To extend the LED strip light, you will need a double-sided adhesive tape and a connector housing.
Do Led Strip Lights Still Work When Cut?
Yes, led strip lights still work when cut. However, the light output may be reduced due to broken or weakened parts of the LED strip. Additionally, if moisture gets inside the LED strips and causes them to short out or smoke, it can also render them useless. In both cases, replacing the entire strip will usually restore functionality.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Everything you need to know about how to extend LED strip lights. Follow these simple steps, and you can extend your lights in no time. As always, if you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us. We would be more than happy to help you out. Thanks for reading, and we hope this was helpful!
