LED neon flex lights have become increasingly popular in recent years as a decorative lighting option. In this article, we’ll take a look at what exactly LED neon flex lights are, their key features and benefits, and some of their most common applications.
What Are LED Neon Flex Lights?
LED neon flex lights, also sometimes called LED neon flexible strips or ribbon lights, are thin, flexible lights that can be bent and shaped however you’d like. The lights consist of small LED bulbs encased in flexible PVC tubing that glows when the lights are switched on.
The tubing typically comes in reels of various lengths, widths, and colors. The most common widths are 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm. Lengths can range from 16 feet up to 100 feet or more. As for colors, red, blue, green, white, and multi-colored RGB strips are the most widely available.
How Do LED Neon Flex Lights Work?
LED neon flex lights work by running electricity through small LED light bulbs that are spaced evenly inside the flexible tubing. The tubing helps diffuse and spread out the light. Here are some key components and features of LED neon flex lights:
- LED bulbs – Small LED diodes spaced evenly throughout the length of the tubing produce the light.
- Flexible PVC tubing – Clear or colored flexible tubing houses and protects the LEDs and helps spread the light.
- Power supply – An external 12V DC power supply connects to the lights and provides the necessary electricity.
- Adhesive backing – Many flex light kits include adhesive backing tape to easily install the lights.
- Connectors – Male and female connectors allow connecting multiple reels together.
- Waterproof – Most flex lights have waterproof ratings of IP65 or IP67.
- Dimmable – Many flex lights work with 12V dimmers to adjust brightness.
Overall, the simple construction makes LED neon flex lights highly flexible and customizable for many different applications.
Benefits of Using LED Neon Flex Lights
There are many reasons LED neon flex strip lights have become a popular lighting choice. Here are some of the benefits they offer:
- Flexible and customizable – The ability to bend and shape the lights allows for creative and customizable installations.
- Bright and energy efficient – LED technology makes the lights bright while using very little electricity.
- Long lifespan – LED flex lights can last up to 50,000 hours with very little degradation.
- Safe and cool – The lights operate on low voltage DC power and stay cool to the touch.
- Durable – The plastic tubing protects the LEDs from damage and weather.
- Waterproof – IP65 or IP67 waterproof ratings allow indoor and outdoor use.
- Wide variety – Available in different colors, lengths, and widths to suit any project.
Common Applications of LED Neon Flex Lights
The unique properties of LED neon flex lights make them suitable for many different decorative lighting applications. Here are some of the most popular uses:
- Sign lighting – Outlining neon signs, lettering, logos, and decorative borders.
- Architectural accent – Accent lighting on walls, ceilings, staircases, and pathways.
- Display cases – Highlighting and enhancing display cases and retail shelving.
- Under cabinet – Under cabinet lighting in kitchens, bars, and workbenches.
- Cove lighting – Tucked into coves and alcoves for indirect glow lighting.
- Landscape – Outdoor landscape lighting along paths, in gardens, and in gazebos.
- Event decor – Temporary event lighting for parties, weddings, festivals, and holidays.
- Automotive – Custom undercar lighting and interior auto accents.
The thin profile and ability to cut and connect multiple strips gives LED neon flex lights an edge over more rigid lighting for intricate and detailed decorative lighting projects.
LED Neon Flex Light Kits
LED neon flex lights are commonly sold in complete kits that contain everything you need to get set up. Here are the components typically included:
- LED flex light reels in various lengths and colors
- 12V DC power supply
- Power supply cables and connectors
- Low voltage dimmer (optional)
- Mounting clips, tracks, or channels
- Splice connectors to attach multiple strips
- End caps
- Remote control (optional)
- Adhesive backing tape
Kits allow you to buy all compatible components together for easy plug-and-play installation. You can also buy individual components separately to customize or expand your lighting system.
Buying Considerations for LED Neon Flex Lights
Here are some key specifications and features to consider when selecting LED neon flex lights for your project:
| Feature | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Length | Available from 16 ft to 100 ft. Consider the coverage area needed. |
| Width | 8mm, 10mm and 12mm widths. Wider is brighter. |
| Color | Red, blue, green, white, yellow, RGB, etc. Match decor or purpose. |
| Luminous flux | Lumens rating affects overall brightness. |
| Viewing angle | 120° to 360° viewing angle. Wider disperses light more. |
| IP rating | IP65 or IP67 for wet location suitability. |
| Power supply | Quality power supply prevents voltage drop or overheating. |
| Warranty | 1-5 year warranties. Longer warranty indicates better quality. |
Considering all specifications and your particular application will help ensure you get the best LED neon flex lights for your unique needs and environment.
How to Install LED Neon Flex Lights
Installing LED neon flex lights involves a few simple steps that can usually be done in less than an hour, even for beginners. Here is an overview of the installation process:
- Plan layout – Decide on placement and map out the lighting plan.
- Clean and prepare surface – Ensure the installation area is clean and dry.
- Affix LED strip – Peel off adhesive backing and press onto surface. Use mounting clips if needed.
- Connect power supply – Connect LED strips to 12V power supply and dimmer (if using).
- Check connections – Ensure strips are connected properly without gaps or slack.
- Turn on lights – Switch on power supply and dimmer to test lights.
- Finish installation – Conceal wires, power supply, and dimmer neatly and securely.
Detailed installation instructions are usually provided with LED flex light kits. Properly installing the lights is important to ensure all electrical connections are safe and waterproof.
Dimming LED Neon Flex Lights
One advantage of LED neon flex lights is that many are dimmable to adjust brightness. There are a few dimming options:
- 12V Dimmer Module – Rotary or touch dimmer that works with 12V LED flex lights.
- PWM Dimmer – More advanced pulse width modulation dimming for smooth fading.
- Remote Control – RF wireless remote to adjust color and brightness.
- Smart Switch – Connect lights to a smart home system for app and voice control.
Dimming allows creating just the right ambiance from soft, subtle glows up to full brightness. Check your LED kit specifications for dimming compatibility.
Powering Long LED Neon Flex Light Runs
For extra long LED neon flex light runs exceeding 16 feet, special considerations are needed to provide enough power over the full length:
- Lower density LEDs – Using LED strips with fewer LEDs per foot reduces power needs.
- Supplemental power injection – Additional power supplies connected along the strip length.
- Larger power supply – A higher wattage, high efficiency power supply.
- Parallel wiring – Wiring parallel lines from the power source to the end.
Proper voltage is critical to prevent dimming or dark spots. Consult a lighting expert for the best powering options for long flex light runs.
Safety Tips for LED Neon Flex Lights
LED neon flex lights are very safe provided basic precautions are followed:
- Use only approved, quality power supplies rated for your flex light length and power needs.
- Ensure connections are secure, waterproof, and outdoor-rated for wet locations.
- Do not overload extension cords or power strips.
- Do not apply excessive twisting, kinking, pinching, or abrasion to the flex lights.
- Keep LED controller boxes clean, dry, and well ventilated.
- Attach and conceal wires neatly to avoid tripping or pulling hazards.
- Turn off power before working on lights.
- Follow all local building codes and electrical regulations.
Adhering to safety procedures, manufacturer directions, and electrical best practices keeps LED flex light installations safe and enjoyably illuminated.
Conclusion
With their brilliant glow, energy efficiency, and incredible flexibility, it’s easy to see why LED neon flex lights have become a top choice for decorative and commercial lighting applications. Their versatility allows lighting up any space with just the right accent colors and brightness. By following the guidelines above for proper selection, installation, powering, and safety, LED neon flex lights can provide stunning lighting effects for many years.
