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Low Voltage LED Installation Guide

The key to the success of your low voltage LED installation lies in the choice of materials used to complete your project.

BEFORE YOU START YOUR PROJECT

Regardless of your project, we recommend that you always test your components before starting your installation. Review the labels of each part to make sure that everything is compatible (among other things that all the components are of the same voltage) and that the color of your Strip or other type of light is indeed the one you want. Plug everything in briefly to confirm everything is working initially. If there is a problem, contact us immediately before modifying the product since tampered products are no longer covered by the warranty.

GOOD WIRE IS THE SECRET OF YOUR SUCCESS

It is very important to mention that ALL low voltage wiring that you add to your LED circuit must be Multi Braid (stranded) and preferably made of copper. Solid single strand wiring also known as Solid Core (traditional 14/2, thermostat wiring or doorbell wiring for example) causes poor contact at connection points, creating resistance that damages low voltage components. Use of solid core wire voids all warranties.

 

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RIGHT TRANSFORMER FOR YOUR PROJECT

First, your power supply must be used at a maximum of 80% of its capacity. If you have a LED strip that requires 48W of power, we recommend a power supply of at least 60W. A 72W power supply would be just as acceptable since your LED will fetch the power it needs from the power source. The power supply therefore does not impose its power on the LED.

12V OR 24V STRIPS?

Since your LED Strips operate at low voltage, you must avoid causing resistance on the circuit. 24V LED Strips are often preferred in installations that require extensions and connections since the amperage used is lower. Since the voltage is twice that of 12V, the voltage loss is also less significant. The 24V product certification allows a maximum power supply of 96W, while 12V products are limited to 60W.

 
AVOID VOLTAGE DROP

It should also be noted that the use of quick connectors should be avoided for the same reasons. It is imperative that all connections made to the Strip should be soldered. If you want to add wiring to your project, be sure to choose the correct size (AWG) and take the voltage drop into account. Several voltage loss calculators are available online. Generally, we suggest that you do not exceed 10m of 20AWG wiring on a 24V circuit.

If in doubt, contact our experts before starting your installation.

 

 PDF IconLow Voltage LED Installation Guide (PDF)