Tips and Tricks for Installing LED Strips Like a Pro

One of the most important steps when working with LED strips is making precise cuts to ensure proper functionality.

Where should you cut LED strips? 
Always cut at the designated points marked with a scissor icon or a dotted line. Cutting outside these areas will break the circuit and render the strip useless.

What tool should you use for cutting? 
For a clean cut, use a sharp tool - like a sharp scissor or knife. A dull blade can damage the contacts and affect the strip’s connectivity, leading to performance issues.  

Pro Tip: If you’re cutting multiple strips, label them to avoid confusion during installation. 

When connecting LED strips, it's essential to do so with care to avoid flickering, color issues, or poor connectivity.

How do you connect LED strips?
Use LED strip connectors designed specifically for your strip type. To choose the right connector, check the number of copper contact points and the width of the LED strip. Make sure the contacts align properly to prevent issues such as flickering or inconsistent colors, particularly with RGB strips.

Can you check the connection before securing the clip?  
It´s not possible to check the connection before securing the clip, as closing it is necessary to test the connection. However, be sure everything is properly eligned before fastening the clip in place.

Pro Tip: We srongly recommend keeping cable runs under 10 meters to minimize voltage drop.

Waterproof LED strips are great for wet areas, but cutting them can affect their protection. Here's how to handle it safely.

Can you cut waterproof LED strips? 
Cutting a waterproof LED strip (IP65) will compromise its water and dust protection, as the seal is broken. Once the strip is cut, it will no longer be water-resistant. Using only connectors will not automatically make the strip waterproof again. 

How do you restore waterproofing?
To fix this, apply silicone gel over the cut ends and connectors to seal them. You can also use waterproof end caps and secure them with silicone glue.   

Pro Tip: Always test the seal after cutting to ensure its waterproof again. 

Outdoor installations require extra attention, especially when it comes to protecting your LED strips from moisture

and weather conditions. Make sure to choose a water resistant IP65-rated led strip for outdoor installations. 

Do you need a waterproof driver for outdoor installations? 
Not always. If you’re using a water-resistant LED strip, you may not need a waterproof driver, depending on the placement. However, if the driver is exposed to the elements, you should ensure it's also waterproof.

Should you use profiles for outdoor installations? 
Absolutely. Profiles help to protect the LED strips from exposure and provide additional stability. While IP65-rated strips are water-resistant, they’re not fully protected without a profile, so it's always a good idea to use one.

Pro Tip: When running outdoor LED strips along walls or fences, make sure cables are tucked securely to avoid damage from wind or debris.

LED strips can sometimes experience issues like overheating, voltage drop, and dimming, but there are simple solutions.

How do you prevent overheating? 
Install your LED strips in profiles to help with heat dissipation. This will prevent the strips from overheating, which will extend their lifespan and improve performance.

What causes voltage drop, and how can you fix it? 
Voltage drops occur on long runs. To prevent this, use power injections to boost the power supply. However, we advise you not to use more than 10 meters in one end.

What about dimming issues? 
With a proper controller, like a remote, app, or smart system. LED strips dim smoothly without flickering. This is different from traditional wall dimmers, which can cause flickering if not compatible. 

If parts of the strip appear dimmer, it’s usually due to voltage drop on longer runs (over 10 meters), not actual dimming. Using a suitable profile and power injection helps maintain consistent brightness.  


P.S. Not sure how to control your lights? Read more in this blog:

Zigbee vs. Wi-Fi: What’s Best for Controlling Your LED Strips?

Pro Tip: Avoid bending the strips, especially near the copper points, as this can damage internal contacts and lead to failure.

Whether you’re cutting, connecting, or installing your LED strips, following these tips will ensure a clean, professional, and long-lasting installation. From handling waterproof strips to protecting your setup outdoors, these best practices will help you avoid common mistakes and achieve the perfect result.