4 types of weatherproof outdoor LED strip lights

At one time, I decided to improve the outdoor applications on the terrace of my house and began looking for different lighting options.

One day, after reading about the possibilities of LED lamps, I learned about outdoor applications and outdoor lights of LED.

I liked the idea of using a flexible strip with bright LEDs to create original and aesthetic lighting.

weatherproof outdoor led strip lights
Image credit: www.hoselink.com.au

I started researching an outdoor LED strip light and learned that they have many benefits: they are energy efficient, long-lasting, bright and rich colors, easy to install, and dimmable.

I discovered that such lights of LED can be used not only for street lighting but also for interior decoration.

I also tested the LED strip light resistance to temporary submersion, and in the end, I decided to order an outdoor LED strip for my terrace.

After installation, I appreciated their effectiveness and beauty – the LED strip light created a cozy and stylish atmosphere, and also provided the necessary lighting in the evening.

So far I am very happy with my choice and glad I found out about outdoor LED strip lights.

Waterproof LED lights

Now I will tell you about how I learned about waterproof LED strip lights.

One fine day I was walking down the street and noticed the original and colorful lighting on one of the houses.

These were bright and beautiful waterproof LED strip lights that were installed along the facade of the building.

I was intrigued by how such tapes could withstand different weather conditions since it was very hot outside and then it started to rain.

I became interested and started looking for information about waterproof LED strip lights.

This is how I learned about the existence of waterproof LED strip lights, which are specially designed for use in all weather conditions – from the heat of the sun to rain and snow.

I learned that these tapes are water and dust-resistant and have a high degree of UV protection, making them durable and reliable.

Very intrigued by this information about waterproof LED strip lights, I decided to order waterproof LED strip lights for my home.

After installation, I observed how they successfully cope with any weather conditions, maintaining the brightness and attractiveness of the lighting with waterproof LED strip lights.

Now I enjoy beautiful lighting in any weather and am very pleased to have learned about such unique waterproof LED strip lights.

4 types of all-weather outdoor LED tape lights

I found that weather outdoor LED tape lights such as waterproof LED strip lights come in different types and configurations, depending on their application and design features.

Here are some of them:

  • Flexible LED strip: These LED strip light has a flexible base, making them easy to install and ideal for use along curved surfaces or corners.
  • Unsealed lights of LED: LED strip light do not have special protection from moisture, but can be installed in rooms with minimal humidity or sealed in special sealed profiles.
  • IP65/IP67/IP68 Sealed lights of LED: This LED strip light has different levels of protection against moisture and dust according to the IP classification. IP65 – protected from dust and jets of water, IP67 – protected from short-term immersion in water, IP68 – completely sealed and can be used underwater.
  • Lights of LED with enhanced UV protection: This LED strip light has a special coating that protects the LEDs from exposure to ultraviolet rays, which allows them to maintain brightness and color in street lighting for a long time.

I have selected only a few of the main types of all-weather outdoor LED strip light, which are widely used for outdoor lighting and decoration.

I have checked that each type of LED tape lights has its characteristics and advantages, and the choice of a particular type depends on the specific requirements and conditions of use.

Weather LED strip lights

It was summer when I decided to improve the look of my garden and create some cozy outdoor lighting as landscape lighting.

After researching various outdoor lighting options, I decided to purchase waterproof LED strip lights.

Before purchasing, I did some research to select the most suitable bands for my needs.

I paid attention to the IP rating to make sure the tapes could handle moisture and dust.

I also chose warm white light to create a cozy atmosphere in my garden.

After choosing a model, I found a reliable seller and placed an order online. I paid attention to reviews from other customers and made sure that the products met my expectations.

When the package arrived, I immediately checked the lights of LED for functionality and compliance with the order.

Everything was in order and I proceeded to install the lights of LED along the garden path and the fence.

After installing lights of LED, my task lighting garden was transformed and became incredibly beautiful and cozy in the evening.

I was very pleased with the result and glad that I made the right choice when purchasing waterproof lights of LED.

How to choose an LED strip for street lighting?

So you decided to purchase waterproof LED strips? I’ll tell you what you need when choosing.

  1. Select the power of the LED strip depending on the area you plan to illuminate. Outdoor lighting requires more powerful strips than indoor lighting.
  2. Pay attention to the degree of protection of the lights of LED from dust and moisture. Street lighting requires tape with a high degree of protection – IP65 or higher.
  3. Choose the color of the light depending on your preferences and lighting purposes. Warm white light creates a cozy atmosphere, while cool white light provides brighter, harsher lighting.
  4. Consider the length of the tape and the necessary accessories such as controllers, power supplies, and connectors. Make sure you have everything you need to install the LED strip.
  5. When choosing an outdoor strip light, pay attention to the quality of manufacturing materials and well-known manufacturers to avoid problems with the reliability and durability of the product.
Image credit: www.ankurlighting.com

Specifications of weatherproof outdoor LED strip lights

When I decided to upgrade the outdoor strip lighting in wet locations of my home, I started researching different LED strip options for strip lighting.

One of the key points of strip lighting was choosing all-weather LED strips with waterproof connectors that could last a long time and be reliable in all weather conditions.

To begin with, I paid attention to the IP (International Protection) degree of protection of the strip lighting. IP class indicates the level of protection against dust and moisture.

For example, IP65 means full protection against dust and resistance to low-pressure water jets, which is an excellent option for outdoor use.

Then I studied the technical characteristics such as LED strip power supply, lumen output, color temperature, and light emission angle.

It was important for me to choose lights with high brightness and good color rendering to ensure sufficient lighting in the yard.

I also paid attention to the materials used for making LED light and their durability.

I preferred to choose products from well-known manufacturers with a good reputation to avoid service and quality problems.

After careful research, I selected several models of all-weather LED light that suited my requirements and placed an order, taking into account all the technical characteristics and features of the products.

The result exceeded my expectations and I was pleased with both the choice and the quality of the new street lighting.

I found out what the main technical characteristics of all-weather LED light is.

  • IP degree of protection (IP rating) – indicates the level of protection against dust and moisture. For example, IP65 means full protection against dust and resistance to low-pressure water jets, which are suitable for outdoor use.
  • LED strip power supply – determines the brightness of the light it produces. Usually measured in watts per meter (W/m).
  • Luminous flux – the amount of light emitted by the strip lighting is measured in lumens (lm). The greater the luminous flux, the brighter the light will be.
  • Color temperature – determines the color of light that the LED strip emits. Usually measured in kelvins (K). Warm white light has a low temperature (around 2700K), while cool white light has a high temperature (6000K and above).
  • Light emission angle – shows how wide or narrow the LEDs spread light—measured in degrees.
  • Strip length – indicates the total length of the strip lights in meters.
  • Operating voltage – the voltage required to power the strip lighting. Usually it is 12V or 24V.

I advise you to consider the technical specifications, thanks to them you can choose the most suitable all-weather LED strip lights for your needs.

Frost-resistant lights of LED

I have found that frost resistance is an important criterion when choosing LED strip lights for use in cold climates.

Here are a few key features you should pay attention to when choosing frost-resistant LED light with mounting clips:

  • Operating temperature: Choosing an LED light that can operate in the low temperatures typical of frosty conditions is important. Some models are specifically designed to operate in temperatures down to -22 °F (-30 °C) or even lower.
  • Moisture resistance: Having waterproof protection (IP rating) is also important because during frosty periods the air can be very humid. IP65 and above are often recommended for outdoor use.
  • Choice of materials: Glass or silicone LED light generally retain their performance at low temperatures better than plastic ones. Therefore, it is worth paying attention to the use of durable materials.
  • Emission angle: when choosing LED light for frosty conditions, also consider the angle of light emission. The wider the angle, the more uniform and wider the area covered will be, which is useful in low-light conditions.

Choose the right LED strip lights for your needs.

Heat-resistant lights of LED

I’ve learned that when choosing high-temperature resistant LED strip lights with mounting clips, there are a few key features to look for:

  • Choose LED lights designed to operate in high-temperature environments (color temperature). Please note the operating temperature limits specified by the manufacturer.
  • The good heat dissipation of LED lights allows for efficient heat dissipation, which helps prevent overheating and maintain the longevity of the lights.
  • Choose strips made from high-quality materials that can withstand high temperatures without deformation or loss of properties.
  • Some strip lighting has built-in overheat protection mechanisms, which can be useful when working in hot climates.
  • it is recommended to choose LED lights with a high level of protection from external influences such as dust and moisture. IP65 (IP rating) and higher will provide reliable protection against damage.
  • When selecting LED strips for use in hot environments, consider their beam angle to provide adequate illumination and avoid overheating.

If you consider these factors when choosing heat-resistant LED strip lights, you can provide reliable, efficient lighting in hot environments.

Materials from which LED lights are made

I have found and verified that strip lighting is made from a variety of materials including:

  • Flexible plastic (PVC): This is one of the most common materials for making strip lighting. PVC is flexible and durable, making it easy to bend and form strips.
  • Silicone: Silicone strip lighting is highly resistant to moisture and aggressive chemicals. They are flexible and durable.
  • Acrylic (PMMA): Acrylic strip lighting is durable, scratch-resistant, and has good transparency to help distribute light evenly.
  • Aluminum strips: Sometimes strip lighting may have an aluminum base to improve heat dissipation and durability. Aluminum strips are commonly used for high-power strip lighting or when providing additional protection.
  • Copper: Strip lighting can also have a copper base, which provides good thermal conductivity and efficient heat dissipation.

Please note that each material has its advantages and disadvantages, so the choice of material for the LED strip depends on the specific application conditions and product requirements.

Are LED strips environmentally friendly?

The environmental aspect was an important factor for me when deciding to use strip lighting.

I started researching this issue to understand how environmentally friendly such lighting sources are.

In the process of studying the information, I learned about several environmentally friendly advantages of strip lighting:

  • Energy efficient: LED strip lights consume much less energy than traditional lighting sources, which helps reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.
  • Durability: LEDs have a significantly longer lifespan than conventional bulbs, reducing waste and reducing the need for frequent replacement of lighting fixtures.
  • Fewer hazardous substances: LED strip lights contain less hazardous substances such as mercury or fin than some other types of lamps, making them safer for the environment.
  • No ultraviolet and infrared radiation: Strip lighting does not emit ultraviolet and infrared radiation, which minimizes the impact on the environment and human health.

Based on this information, I realized that using LED strip lights is an eco-friendly lighting option that can reduce your environmental impact while still providing energy-efficient and long-lasting lighting.

Lifespan of outdoor LED strip

I have found out some factors that can affect the lifespan of outdoor strip lighting:

  • High-quality LED strip lights, made from durable materials and components, typically have a longer lifespan compared to lower-quality options. Choose reliable brands and suppliers to ensure better performance and durability.
  • Outdoor strip lighting is exposed to various environmental conditions such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, and ultraviolet exposure. Properly waterproof and sealed LED strip lights tend to last longer when used outdoors.
  • Regular maintenance, such as cleaning LED strip lights and ensuring proper ventilation and cooling, can help extend their lifespan. Check for signs of wear or damage and repair them immediately.
  • Proper heat dissipation is critical to the longevity of LED strip lights. Make sure strip lighting does not overheat and has adequate ventilation to prevent premature failure.
  • Using a high-quality and compatible power supply is essential for optimal performance and longevity of outdoor LED strip lights. Make sure the power supply matches the power and voltage requirements of the LED strip.

Power supply for LEDs

I have learned from experience that when it comes to powering LEDs, it is very important to choose the right power source to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your LED fixtures.

Here are a few key points to consider when choosing an LED power supply:

  • Voltage: LEDs require a certain voltage to operate properly. Make sure the power supply you choose provides the correct output voltage needed for your LED.
  • Current: LED has a current rating that determines how much current it can handle.
  • Dimmable capability: If you plan to dim your LED, make sure the power supply supports dimming functionality. Not all power supplies are compatible with dimmers, so check the specifications before purchasing.
  • Efficiency: Choose a power source with high efficiency to minimize energy loss and reduce operating costs. An efficient power supply will also generate less heat, which can extend the life of both the power supply and the LED.
  • Safety: Select a power source that meets safety standards and regulations to prevent the risk of electric shock. Look for certifications such as UL, CE, or RoHS to ensure your power supply meets industry standards.
  • Environmental conditions: Consider the environmental conditions in which the LED will be installed. If the lights will be used outdoors or in a wet environment, select a power source rated for use in outdoor or wet locations to ensure reliable operation.
  • Power supply type: various types of power supplies are available such as constant voltage and constant current. Select the type that suits your LED requirements.

FAQ

Can you get LED strips wet?

I have found that LED strips that are specifically designed to be waterproof can withstand some exposure to moisture and water.

These waterproof LED strips usually have an IP (Ingress Protection) rating such as IP65, IP67, or higher, indicating their level of protection against dust and water.

Can you use LED strips outside?

Yes, I have made sure that you can use light strips outside, but it is important to make sure that the LED strip lights you choose are specifically designed for outdoor use.

LED strips for outdoor use are usually waterproof and have a higher level of protection from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors.

How do you waterproof LED strip lights?

I found out that waterproofing light strips involves adding a protective layer or casing to protect the strips from moisture and water.

How long do outdoor LED strip lights last?

I have learned that the lifespan of outdoor light strips can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the light strips, end caps, silicone coating, operating conditions, RGB controller, connection points, and how well they are maintained.

On average, high-quality outdoor LED strip lights can last between 30,000 and 50,000 hours of continuous use.

Conclusions

This article is for those who want to add lighting around their home and take the time to explore the beauty of LED lighting.

As you already understand, LED lighting can be used not only for walls and cabinet lighting but also for the street and also for temporary submersion in water.

Fastenings on the street may be practically no different from the method of fastening inside the house; it can be double-sided tape or clips.

I hope you liked the article!