LED light strips are usually composed of multiple LED (light-emitting diode) lamp beads, circuit boards, soft plastic or rubber outer skins, etc. They are usually used under kitchen cabinets, bedside tables, wardrobe walls, shop windows, etc., so can LED light strips be used outdoors?
LED light strips can be used outdoors, but the following factors should be considered:
Waterproofing
- Light strips generally have different waterproof ratings, such as IP (Ingress Protection) ratings. If they are used in outdoor exposed environments, it is best to choose light strips with IP65 and above ratings. The IP65 rating means that the lamp is completely dustproof and can prevent the intrusion of jets of water, and can cope with general rainy weather. IP67-rated light strips can be immersed in water for a short period of time (usually no more than 30 minutes) without damage, and are more suitable for use in outdoor environments where water may accumulate, such as around fountains in the garden.
- In addition, we also need to take appropriate waterproofing measures during installation. For the connection parts (such as the connection between the plug and the light strip), waterproof rubber sleeves can be used for sealing to prevent moisture from penetrating into the interior of the light strip from the interface.
Outdoor temperature conditions
- Low temperature: The outdoor ambient temperature varies greatly. In cold weather, the performance of LED light strips may be affected. In low temperature environments, the physical properties of materials such as electronic components and glue inside the light strip may change. However, high-quality LED light strips are usually able to work normally in a wide temperature range and can generally withstand temperature changes from -20℃ to +40℃.
- High temperature: In hot summer or in areas with direct sunlight, the temperature may rise to a very high level. LED light strips also need to consider heat dissipation in high temperature environments. If the temperature is too high, it may accelerate the aging of the light strip, causing the light decay to increase or shorten the service life. Therefore, when used outdoors, avoid exposing the light strip to high temperature for a long time. If it cannot be avoided, you can take shading measures, such as installing a sunshade to reduce the temperature of the light strip.
Safety conditions
- Installation safety: When installing LED light strips outdoors, you need to ensure that the installation is firm and safe. Since there may be wind and rain outdoors, if the light strip is not installed firmly, it is easy to be blown off, causing safety hazards. You can use suitable fixing tools, such as waterproof glue, screws or clips, to fix the light strip on the outer wall of the building, railings or trees. At the same time, be careful to avoid damaging the waterproof structure of the light strip during installation.
- Power supply safety: Outdoor power supply needs to consider safety. Make sure to use qualified outdoor power supply and wires, and the wires must have sufficient waterproof and insulation properties. In general, it is best to ask professionals to install outdoor circuits to prevent safety accidents such as electric shock.
