LED strip lights are the easiest way to add professional-looking lighting to any space - if you install them right. This guide covers everything from planning to power supply sizing.
Planning Before You Buy
- Measure the run: Total length you need, including corners (add 5% for cutting waste)
- Choose the type: COB (dotless) for visible installs, SMD for hidden
- Pick color temp: 2700-3000K warm for homes, 4000K+ for task areas
- Decide dimming: Remote/switch dimming adds flexibility
Sizing the Power Supply
Simple formula: strip wattage per meter × total meters × 1.2 safety margin.
Example: 12W/m strip × 5m = 60W → add 20% = 72W minimum driver. Undersized drivers cause flicker and premature failure.
Step-by-Step Install
- Clean the surface: Dust and degrease the mounting area - 3M backing won't stick to dirty surfaces
- Cut at marked lines only: Look for the cut marks (usually every 50mm or 100mm)
- Use solderless connectors for corners: No soldering needed, just clip and press
- Mount the driver: Keep it ventilated, hidden but accessible
- Test before finalizing: Power up and check brightness, color, and all segments before mounting fully
Pro Tips
- Use aluminum profiles (channels) for a professional flush look and heat dissipation - a game changer for visible installs
- Solderless connectors like our COB strip quick connectors make corners easy
- For under-cabinet kitchens, mount strip on the front lip (not back corner) to light the countertop
- Hide the power supply in an upper cabinet with a small hole for the cable
Common Mistakes
- Oversized runs on undersized drivers (flicker!)
- Sharp 90° folds (breaks traces) - always cut and reconnect at corners
- Mixing strip types in one installation
- No diffuser on SMD strips (visible dots)
Start with a small project like a shelf or TV backlight, master the basics, then scale up to full-room installations. Our COB strip kits include everything to get started.