This article will provide you with valuable guidelines and best practices for a successful low voltage LED lighting installation and to ensure safety, optimal performance, and longevity of the lighting system. 

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Table of Contents:

I. Dos

1. Do Plan and Design Your Lighting System

Before starting on a low voltage LED lighting installation, it is best to plan and design your lighting system. 

• Consider the purpose of the lighting

• The desired effect

• The areas you want to light

Sketch out a lighting layout and identify the necessary components, such as LED fixtures, cables, transformers, and controls. A well-thought-out plan will streamline the installation process and minimize potential issues. 

If you need assistance in designing your lighting system, you can also get in touch with our team of expert electricians and engineers in designing your next lighting project. 

2. Do Choose High-Quality Products

Investing in high-quality LED strips, low voltage transformers, and mounting supplies is essential to the success of your low voltage LED lighting installation. 

Go for reputable brands and factory direct suppliers that offer reliable and durable LED fixtures, cables, and transformers without increasing your budget. High-quality products will not only provide better performance but also ensure the safety and longevity of your lighting system. Additionally, consider selecting products that are compatible with each other to avoid any compatibility issues during installation. HitLights is a Factory Direct LED, Low Voltage Transformer, and Mounting Supplier brand in America that you can rely on. 

Products like:

3. Do Consider Voltage Drop

Voltage drop is a common challenge in low voltage LED lighting installations. It occurs when the voltage decreases along the length of the cable, leading to reduced light output and potential flickering that is typical for longer runs or installations. 

To mitigate voltage drop, calculate the cable length and gauge required for your installation based on the manufacturer's specifications and industry standards. Using thicker cables or installing additional power supply points can help minimize voltage drop and maintain consistent lighting performance. If you are unsure how to mitigate this, you can also get assistance from our team of expert engineers and electricians over the . They can guide you through if there is any possible impact of voltage drop on your installation plan. Things to consider will be:

• Length of installation

• Density of the LED strip or lighting fixture

• Total power output 

• Low voltage transformer/driver to be used

4. Do Follow Manufacturer's Guidelines

Each LED lighting component comes with specific installation guidelines provided by the manufacturer. It is best to check and follow these guidelines to ensure proper installation and optimal performance. Pay attention to recommended mounting methods, wiring instructions, and any specific precautions mentioned by the manufacturer. By adhering to these guidelines, you can avoid potential issues and warranty voids i.e. using an IP30 or an indoor LED strip on outdoor installations.

5. Do Use Waterproof Connectors and Enclosures

When installing low voltage LED lighting outdoors or in areas exposed to moisture, it is essential to use waterproof connectors and enclosures. These components protect the electrical connections from water ingress, preventing short circuits and potential electrical hazards. Waterproof connectors and enclosures also ensure the longevity of your lighting system, even in challenging environmental conditions.

• Use electrical grade silicone caulk to add extra protection  

• Use IP67 rated and up on enclosures to ensure proper ingress protection

6. Do Test the System Before Finalizing

Before completing the low voltage LED lighting installation, thoroughly test the entire system to ensure that all lights work properly. 

• Check the following:

• Wiring connections

• Voltage levels

• Light output

• Verify that the controllers:

• Dimmers 

• Timers

• Testing the system before finalizing the installation allows you to identify and address any issues or adjustments required, ensuring a successful lighting setup and reduces the chances of redo and customer complaints.

II. Don'ts

1. Don't Overload the Transformer

The transformer in a low voltage LED lighting system plays a crucial role in converting the main electrical supply to the appropriate voltage required by the LED fixtures. It is important not to overload the transformer by exceeding its maximum wattage capacity, it is recommended to use only up to 80% of the load capacity for proper use since electricity fluctuates from time to time. 

Overloading and using more than 80% of the capacity can lead to overheating, reduced lifespan of the transformer, and even electrical hazards. Always check the wattage ratings of the transformer and ensure it can handle the total wattage of your LED fixtures.

• Follow the 80%/30% Rule - max load should not exceed 80% capacity and lower load should not be below 30% of the transformer&#;s capacity not to affect the lighting fixture

• Use high-quality low voltage transformers i.e. UL Listed or ETL Listed ones

• You can also check for &#;No D-Rating&#; markings if you want to use full capacity, however, it is still best to follow the 80/30 rule at most

2. Don't Ignore Electrical Codes and Regulations

Electrical codes and regulations exist to ensure the safety and compliance of electrical installations. When working on low voltage LED lighting installations, it is vital to familiarize yourself with the relevant codes and regulations in your region. These guidelines cover aspects such as wiring methods, grounding, and safety requirements. By following the electrical codes and regulations, you can prevent potential hazards and legal issues.

• National Electrical Code (NEC - The National Electrical Code (NEC), also known as NFPA 70, is a regionally adoptable standard for the safe installation of electrical wiring and equipment in the United States. It is typically adopted by states and municipalities in an effort to standardize their enforcement of safe electrical practices

• What are some other electrical codes and standards? - The NFPA family of codes and standards that deal with electrical issues are as dynamic as the subjects they address, including NFPA 70, National Electrical Code (NEC), NFPA 70B, Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance, and NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.

• What are some common electrical code violations? - Some common electrical code violations include using the wrong circuit breaker, not having enough outlets, not grounding electrical systems, and using extension cords as permanent wiring.

Be sure to check them out especially if you are working with strict compliance with the electrical codes and regulations. If you need a class 1, class 2, or a title 24 product, you can also check this out with our team of expert engineers and electricians. 

3. Don't Overlook Heat Dissipation

Generally, LED lighting fixtures generate less heat during operation but they still produce it. It is crucial not to overlook proper heat dissipation to avoid premature failure of the LEDs and potential hazards. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding heat dissipation. 

• Avoid overcrowding the fixtures

• Avoid using in enclosed areas where no ventilation is available

4. Don't Forget about Maintenance

LED light strips require less maintenance but it is still best to do regular maintenance to keep your low voltage LED lighting system in optimal condition. Dust, debris, and other environmental factors can accumulate on the fixtures, affecting their performance and lifespan. 

Periodically clean the fixtures using non-abrasive materials and ensure that any damaged components are promptly replaced. Additionally, inspect the wiring connections and transformers for any signs of wear or corrosion. By staying proactive with maintenance, you can extend the life of your lighting system and maintain its efficiency. You can maximize the lifespan that even exceeds 50,000 hours if maintained properly.

5. Don't Neglect Safety Precautions

Working with electricity always carries a certain level of risk. When installing low voltage LED lighting, it is crucial to prioritize safety precautions. Always turn off the power supply before working on the installation. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as insulated gloves and safety glasses, when handling electrical components. Avoid working in wet conditions and be mindful of any potential hazards, such as sharp objects or exposed live wires. Safety should be the top priority throughout the entire installation process.

III. Dos and Don'ts for LED Strip Lights

1. Do Choose the Right Type of LED Strip Lights

LED strip lights come in various types, such as single color, flexible strips, rigid strips, and color-changing strips. Determine the specific requirements of your lighting project and select the appropriate type of LED strip lights. Consider factors such as flexibility, brightness, color options, and control capabilities.

Each varies in power output, installation, compatibility, and use which can impact all other aspects of your lighting installations safety measures and maintenance.

2. Do Properly Size and Cut the LED Strip Lights

LED strip lights can often be customized to fit specific lengths. However, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's guidelines on sizing and cutting. Improper sizing or cutting can result in damage to the LED strips and affect their performance. Use sharp scissors or a cutting tool specifically designed for LED strip lights to achieve clean and accurate cuts. Be sure to check:

• Cut markings to avoid damaging the strips

• Width for fittings

3. Do Clean and Prepare the Installation Surface

Before applying LED strip lights, ensure that the installation surface is clean, dry, and free from any debris. Clean the surface using a mild cleaning solution and let it dry completely. Some LED strip lights come with adhesive backing for easy installation, while others may require additional mounting accessories. 

HitLights LED strips do come with adhesive tape backing for ease of installation, however, if this is a permanent installation, it is recommended to add a mounting tape or a mounting accessory in place i.e. mounting channels, clips, etc.

4. Do Test the LED Strip Lights

It is best practice to test the lights when you receive them, before you go to the installation site, and before permanently installing the LED strip lights. Doing this will help you manage loss, wasted time, and redo. 

• Upon receiving

  - you can see if the lights are working by doing a bench test

• Before going to the installation are

  a - you can check if the LED lights you are bringing are also working to avoid wasted time

• Before you install the lights permanently

  - you should test the lights if they are all working properly, to avoid reinstalling them and going to the hassle of redoing everything

5. Don't Overload the LED Strip Lights

Overloading the LED strip lights with too much power can cause voltage drop, which can lead to dimming or even failure of the lights. Additionally, connecting too long of an LED strip will exceed the power rating for the LED strip sections. Always check the recommended max run length based on its power draw per foot and the internal circuit design.

What are the signs of overloading an LED strip?

• Voltage drop

• Flashing or flickering lights

• Failing LED strips

If you encounter any issues with your LED strip lights, follow these steps to troubleshoot:

• Check the power source

• Check for short circuits or burnt marks on the LED strips or connection points

• Test each connection point - check proper polarity (-) and (+) lines, bents, breaks, or crimped sections

If all fail, you can contact the manufacturer for assistance and warranty coverage. 

6. Don't Bend or Twist the LED Strip Lights Sharply

LED strip lights are flexible, but they have limitations on how sharply they can be bent or twisted. Excessive bending or twisting can damage the internal circuits and LEDs, leading to malfunction or failure. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the maximum bending radius and avoid sharp bends or twists that exceed the recommended limits. It is best to either solder a DC wire or use a solderless connector when connecting the LED strips or when working with corners or bents. There are several connectors that you can use and one of the most versatile would be the any angle connectors, be sure to check though the width and the number of pins of the LED strip that you are using. 

Conclusion

Proper installation of low voltage LED lighting systems and LED strip lights is essential for achieving optimal performance, longevity, and safety. By following these guidelines, you will create well-designed, energy-efficient, and safe low voltage LED lighting installations and LED strip light setups.

If you need any help in troubleshooting your existing lighting setup or if you need help in your next lighting project, feel free to reach out to us at or give us a call at 1 (855) 768-. Our team of expert engineers and electricians are here to assist you every step of the way!

LED strips are famous for their flexibility. But can you bend or fold them to install around the corners? Or is there any way to mount them on corners without damaging the strips? 

You can install LED strips around the corner by folding them to angles that fit your corners or using LED strip connectors. Both methods work okay, yet using an LED strip connector gives a more even lighting. However, the folding or bending method is also great for beginners as it doesn&#;t need any additional tools or technical skills. 

As an LED expert, I know where you may face issues while installing LED strips. Corner areas are tricky to mount the LED strips. So, if you don&#;t know the correct way to bend or fold the strips, it will damage the LEDs or the entire strip. I bought this guide on installing LED lights around corners to prevent such issues. Let&#;s start- 

5 Methods To Install LED Strips Around Corners

You can install LED strips around the corners in different ways. Here, I listed out 5 best methods for you to mount the strips to any kind of edge or corner with ease- 

Method#1: The Corner Fold Or 90-degree Fold 

Link to BLUE DIAMOND

The corner fold, also known as the 90-degree fold, gives a professional approach to your LED strip installment in corners. You will not need any additional instruments or cutting hassles for this process. All you need to do is fold the strips to 90 degrees, giving it a neat finish. The process is as follows- 

• Find the point where you need to give an angular shape to fit the corners
• Hold the strip back (in the opposite direction) to a 45-degree angle
• Bend it back to create a 90-degree angle and firmly press it down
• Use superglue to hold the fold in place

90 degree foldcorner fold of led strip light

Pros

• Creates precise 90-degree angles 
• No extra tools need
• Ideal for an urgent situation; you don&#;t need to buy connectors   
• Ensures uniform lighting around corners

Cons

• Can&#;t fold if there is LED in the corner 
• Not ideal for waterproof LED strips; if the folding is too hard, it can break the waterproof coating
• This can lead to short circuits
• The strip can break at the folded corner

Method#2: 90-Degree Pitch Or The Ribbon Bend 

The ribbon bending technique, also known as 90-degree pitch, is easier than the corner fold. If you are a beginner and installing LED strips around the corner for the first time, this method is for you. However, the folding will not affect the lighting quality. The process of the ribbon bend is as follows-

• Place the LED strip on a plain surface
• Target the place of bending and twisting the strip in a looping style
• Curl it tightly to change the direction.
• Use superglue or adhesive tape to join the loop to the surface.

90 degree pitchthe ribbon bend of led strip light

Pros

• Easy to bend
• No tools required
• Ideal for spaces where strips are not visible

Cons

• It may not give a finished look
• If twisted tightly, it may break the waterproof coating 
• Have chances to damage the LED if it sits within the fold. 

Method#3: Accordion Folds (The Curve)

Use the accordion fold method to install LED strips to round corners or angles greater than 90 degrees. This is a good option to create gradual curves in your strip lights. Here is the process to follow-

• Make small accordion folds spacing out by several inches
• Use glue or adhesive to set each fold to define the curve.  

the accordion fold of led strip light

Pros

• Great for round corners
• No special connector is required
• Can create artistic lighting patterns

Cons

• Hard to bend
• Not friendly for beginner 
• High risk of LED damage
• Time-consuming process 
• Not suitable for precise angling 

Method#4: Use L-Shape Connector 

L-shape connector or back-to-back connector is a good choice for the neatest corner lighting. These are small L-shape solderless connectors that connect to LED strips together. Using this, you can bring a better lighting output than the 90-degree bending of the ribbon bend or the corner fold. The process of using L-shape connectors for corner LEd strip lighting is as follows-  

• Purchase L-shape connectors.
• Find the point where you need to angle the LED strip to fit the corner
• Make a cut at that point; your LED strip will be divided into two. 
• Connect both ends of the jump connector to the two pieces of LED strips 
• Lock both sides.

bending led strip light with l shape connector

Pros

• Gives a smooth and even lighting effect to the corners
• Easy to use and secure
• Waterproofing also remains intact
• Minimal space between the joints 
• No risk of short circuits
• Effective for creating 90-degree angles.

Cons

• Additional cost to purchase clips
• Has the risk of the wrong cut
• Not ideal for round edges 
• Connectors can become loose

NB: To bring flexibility to L-shape connectors, choose L-wire connectors. These are bendable, so you can also use them in round edges. This can be a better alternative to the accordion curve. 

bending led strips with l wire connector

Method#5: The Cut-and-Jump  

If your LED strips are not bendable, a jump connector is the ultimate solution to install the strips around the corner. These connectors are flexible enough to bend in any direction. Besides, these jump connectors are easily available. The process of connecting these to your LED strip is as follows- 

• Buy LED strip jump connectors
• Cut the LED strip to the point where it needs to bend
• Connect both ends of the jump connector to the two pieces of LED strips 
• Do soldering if requires 

bending led strips using jump connectors

Pros

• Ideal for unbendable LED strips
• Flexible to move in any direction
• Works get on irregular corners or edges 
• Saves installation time 

Cons

• Need additional tool- jump connector
• Soldering is required in some cases
• It may not be suitable for beginners 

Method#6: Use the Pre-Bend LED Strips 

Pre-bend LED strips are also available if you don&#;t want to take the hassle of bending the LED strips manually. You will find L-shaped, U-shaped, J-shaped, or S-shaped LED strips that will fit your bending requirements. Installing these strips is quite simple. You only need to peel the pre-bend LED strip and paste it to the corners. That is it!

bendable s shaped led strips

Pros

• Easy to install
• No risk of breaking 
• Come in a variety of shapes and sizes

Cons

• More expensive than regular LED strips

Steps To Install LED Strip Lights Around Corners 

The installation process of the LED strip around the corners is as follows-  

Step-1: Take Measurements

Take a measuring tape to determine how many LED strips you need for lighting. Purchase LED strips based on the required length; it is better to purchase some extra meters. Once you have your strips, place them in the place of installment, including the curves or corners. Target where you need to bend the LED strip to cover the corners. 

Step-2: Decide The Bend Type 

Now, decide what type of bending you want. You can follow any method as discussed in the above section. If you don&#;t have connectors, bend the strips in a 90-degree fold or follow the ribbon bend. For round edges, go in accordance. However, if you have LED strip connectors, using that will be best to get the best results. 

Step-3: Collect Required Materials

The material requirement for installing LED strips around the corners depends on how you bend the strips. No extra material is required if you simply fold them to fit the corners. Only a super glue or adhesive tape will make the folds firm. However, if you use LED strip connectors, you will need the following-

• LED strips
• LED strip connector
• Sharp Scissor 

Step-4: Clean The Surface

Once you have gathered all the requirements, it&#;s time to prepare the surface of installation. Use a wet cloth or rub alcohol to wipe out the dust and dirt from the surface. You can also make a DIY cleaning solution by adding vinegar to lukewarm water. Remember, the LED strips will not stick to the surface if there is any remaining dust. Besides, dry the place completely before mounting the LED strips.  

Step-5: Prepare The LED Strip To Fit Around The Corners 

The main game of placing the LED Strip in the corners starts now. The process of preparing the LED strips will vary with your chosen method. Here, I am describing it in detail-

1. Fold the LED Strip

Fold the LED strip to any bending method- 90-degree fold, the ribbon bend, or the accordion fold. Use super glue or adhesive to set the foldings to the point. This will give a firm shape to the LED strips to fit on the corners. 

2. Use LED Strip connectors 

Cut the LED strip to the point of angling using a sharp scissor. Now connect the LED strip connector to both the LED strip pieces and lock them up. Ensure they are tight enough to avoid loose connections. 

Step-6: Installation Removing The Adhesive Backing 

Once the LED strips are shaped to fit the corner, move to the installation process. Remove the adhesive backing of the strip and mount it to the corners. Press it well to ensure it sticks firmly to the surface. You can also use clips to strengthen the installation. For more LED strip mounting tips, check this-  Installing LED Flex Strips: Mounting Techniques.

Step-7: Power Up

After installing the LED strip, it&#;s time to power it. Connect the LED strip to an LED driver if you have low-voltage LED strips. This will keep the current flow in check, preventing your strips from overheating. 

How To Connect Two Separate Light Strips At a Corner?  

When installing LED strips on the corner, you may require cutting the strips to give it a 90-degree or wider angle. In this case, you must rejoin the strips to ensure the light works. You can do so in three methods these are as follows- 

• Using a corner connector 

led strip corner connector

Corner LED strip connectors usually come in an L-shape. They are excellent for corners with 90-degree angles. You can get a neat installation around the corners using these connectors. First, you need to purchase the appropriate corner connector. Then, cut the LED strips at the bending point and connect the two parts of the LED strip with the connector. Lock it up, and it is done! 

• Soldering the light strips 

soldering the light strips

Soldering is the most robust way to connect two LED strips in the corner. This gives a professional and permanent solution to LED connection. For this, you must pre-tin and apply heat to the soldering pad of one of the LED strips, removing the adhesive backing. Now, solder the heated area and place the non-tinned LED strip over it. Keep heating it until the solder melts and flows. However, if the strip gets too hot, the circuit casings may begin to lift from the PCB substrate. Thus, you can join the two LED strips using a soldering method. 

• Using a cable connector 

cable connector

LED Strip Connectors with cables are small devices that complete the electric circuit, combining two LED strips and making them glow. They can be of different types based on PINs, IP rating, PCB-wide function, etc. All you need to do is buy the appropriate LED connector and join it to the strips. However, to get the ideal connector, you must consider the type of LED strip you have. Different types of LED strips have different connector requirements. These will be clear from the below:-   

To know more about connecting the LED strips, check this article-  Can You Cut LED Strip Lights and How To Connect: Full Guide.

Tips For Mounting LED Strip Lights Around Corners

The above section taught you different techniques and processes for installing LED strips around corners. In this section, I will give you some tips to do the task correctly. These are as follows- 

1. Use super glue when bending the LED strips

LED strips are bent in different folding methods, like a 90-degree fold or accordion fold. The foldings can get messy as you move the strips or as time passes. This ultimately results in uneven lighting. So, always apply super glue or adhesive to the folding to keep them in shape. 

2. Select the LED strip connector over the strip bending method.

The bending method is the easiest way to install LED strips around the corner, as you don&#;t need any additional tools. But I suggest you use LED strip connectors instead of a folding method. This will prevent your LED strip from any damage due to folding. However, connecting the strips with soldering can give the LED strips more form structure as strip connectors can get loosen over time.

3. Choose the right connector width

In choosing the LED strip connector, consider the PCB wide. If your LED strip connector is small, it won&#;t fit the strips. Again, if it is too big, the connection will loosen easily. So, consider the width of the LED strip before purchasing a strip connector. 

4. Consider the PIN number 

Different types of LED strips have different PIN requirements. For example, if you have an LED strip, then to connect them, you will need a 4 PIN LED connector. In contrast, a 2 PIN connector will work for single-color LED strips. Therefore, I suggest you be careful while choosing connectors&#; PIN numbers. 

5. Avoid bending waterproof LED strips

Waterproof LED strips have a coating that prevents moisture from contacting the LEDs. But when you bend or fold the LED strip, there is a high chance of coating breakage. Thus, moisture will enter the strips, which will damage the LED. 

6. Make cuts following the cut marks 

You will need to cut the LED strips for corner installation using an LED strip connector. In this case, you must be careful in cutting the strips. You will find some scissor markings in the PCB body indicating cut marks. Take a sharp scissor and cut the strips following the marking. If you cut outside the mark, the circuit will break down, and the LED strips will not glow.

7. Use the Correct Polarity (+ Goes to +)

If the LED doesn&#;t glow after using the connector, there must be some polarity issues. Remember that the connector&#;s positive (+) side will join the strip&#;s positive (+) side. And the negative (-) will connect to the negative (-). If this polarity is not maintained, the lights will not glow. Besides, when you use RGB LED strips, make sure the letters line up with one another correctly. 

FAQs

The Bottom Line 

LED strip lights are suitable for corner lighting due to their flexibility and cuttable features. You can easily bend the LED strips to the required angle and mount them to the corners or edges. However, bending the strips is not always a good solution as it can damage or break the LEDs or waterproof coating. For this, an LED connector is the ideal solution. LEDYi has various LED strip connectors of different PCB wide, IP ratings, and PIN numbers. You can get suitable LED strip connectors for any kind of LED strip, from single color to RGB or tunable ones.  Besides, if you want a pre-bend LED strip, do check our S-Shape Bendable Series. 

Contact us to discuss your requirements of 12V S Shape Bendable Led Strip. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.