Task Phase|Step 18 of 37
Add LED Strip Lighting
LED strips are the Swiss Army knife of lighting. They can go anywhere: under cabinets, behind TVs, in closets, along staircases, and countless other places.
Time Required
30 min - 2 hours
Cost
$20-$100 per run
Difficulty
Easy DIY
Types of LED Strips
Single Color (Warm/Cool White)
Fixed color temperature. Best for functional lighting like under cabinets. Simple, reliable.
Tunable White (CCT)
Adjustable warm to cool. Match time of day or mood. More expensive but flexible.
RGB Color Changing
Full color spectrum. Fun for entertainment areas. App or remote controlled.
RGBW / RGBWW
RGB plus dedicated white LEDs. Better white quality than RGB alone. Best of both worlds.
Popular Applications
- Under cabinets: Task lighting for countertops. Most practical use.
- Behind TV (bias lighting): Reduces eye strain, makes image pop.
- Cove lighting: Hidden in ceiling edge for ambient glow.
- Closet illumination: Motion-activated strips light up clothes.
- Stair treads: Safety lighting for nighttime navigation.
- Headboard/bed frame: Ambient bedroom lighting.
- Toe kick: Under base cabinets for nightlight effect.
Key Specifications
- LED density: 30, 60, 120 LEDs per meter. Higher = smoother light.
- Brightness (lumens): Task lighting needs 400+ lm/ft. Accent can be lower.
- Voltage: 12V or 24V. 24V better for longer runs (less voltage drop).
- IP rating: IP20 indoor dry, IP65 damp areas, IP67+ wet locations.
- CRI: 90+ for areas where color accuracy matters.
Pro Tips
- •Use aluminum channels: Diffuses LEDs into smooth line, adds heatsink for longevity.
- •Calculate power supply: Add up wattage of all strips, use power supply 20% larger.
- •Test before sticking: Power on and check before removing adhesive backing.
- •Connect properly: Solder or use connectors at cut marks only.