LED strips are quite common light sources due to the durability and efficiency they demonstrate over incandescent lamps. They are very versatile and can be placed in virtually any space where there is an electrical connection. Whether you need more lighting under cabinets or in the car, you can install them with ease!
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Pendant Lights Under Cabinets
Step 1. Hang them under cabinets with masking tape to identify which areas will be lit
Use white or blue masking tape to position them to determine which locations look best. Test in various positions before deciding on the final installation.
- Place the lights under the cabinet if you want the light to be focused on the counters - remember that shiny surfaces will reflect this light.
- Put the lights on the back of the bottom edge so that the light is facing towards the wall.
Step 2. Cut the ribbons along the black lines so that they fit better
Find the black lines along each ribbon marked with a scissors icon. These areas are safe for cutting, so the tapes will be the perfect length of the cabinet. Use scissors or a sharp knife to make the cut.
LED strips come in a variety of cut lengths, with some of the most common being in the 5, 10 and 15 centimeter range
Step 3. Use connectors to keep the ribbons well-aligned at the corners
Use a sharp stylus to cut the black lines between the light and the tip of the LED strip. Peel off top film to expose edges. Slide the end of the ribbon onto one end of a connector and then close it. Place a connector on the other side so that the ribbon is well aligned with the corners.
- The connectors will come in an L or T shape to join one or two ribbons, respectively.
- You can also fold the tape at the corners if you don't want to use them.
Step 4. Punch holes in the cabinet edge to use a long, continuous tape
If cabinets have moldings on the underside, drill a hole slightly larger than the LED strip using a drill. Thread the ribbon through the hole so you don't have to use multiple sets of LED ribbons with multiple power sources.
Alternatively, use a saw to make small slits through which to pass the LED strips
Step 5. Clean the underside of the cabinets to facilitate the adhesion of the tapes
Prepare a solution containing one part vinegar and one part warm water. Use a clean cloth to clean the areas where the tapes will be applied and dry them promptly.
Any wood cleaner serves this purpose well
Step 6. Peel the film over the adhesive layer to adhere the LED strip to the cabinets
Pull back the tape to reveal the sticker. Slowly and carefully push it over the cabinet surface so that it clings to the wood in the right places. Press the tape firmly so that the adhesive is well adhered.
If the LED strip doesn't cling to the cabinet, you can screw in brackets or claws that hold it in place
Step 7. Hide the fountain under cabinets using masking tape
Place one or two double-sided adhesive tapes on the back of the power supply. Take the film from the other side of the tape and press it firmly onto the bottom of the cabinet. Maintain pressure for 60 seconds so that the adhesive has time to set. Finally, plug in the source or turn on the LED strips to light them up.
If the source is too large, drill a hole in the base of the cabinet. Place it on the back of the lowest part and pass the wires through the hole
Method 2 of 2: Installing LEDs in the Car
Step 1. Buy LED strips that can be plugged into the cigarette lighter
To avoid running any wiring inside the vehicle's electrical box, look for products that use energy coming from the cigarette lighter. As long as 12V of power is released, it can supply the LED strips purchased.
- Purchase USB powered LED strips and plug them into the in-vehicle cell phone charger for a workaround.
- If you want more control over the length of LED strips, buy "ribbon" style lights, which can be cut to larger or smaller sizes depending on your needs.
Step 2. Clean the hard surfaces where the lights will be installed
Spray a hard surface or window cleaner onto a cloth and wipe it well over the desired areas. This helps make the stickers stick more easily.
- A solution made up of one part vinegar and one part warm water works well as a homemade cleanser.
- Common locations for LED strips in vehicles would include the footwell and gearshift in the center console area.
Step 3. Place the LED strips on the surface to illuminate the upper areas
Peel off the protective film from the back of the LED strips. Press each tape firmly onto the desired surface and hold it in place for 30 seconds so the adhesive can stick completely.
Step 4. Leave the wires embedded in the inner contour of the car so that they do not hang
Carefully lift the edges of the cloth outline and press the strands in to keep them neatly organized. Leave them taut, or they run the risk of coming off more easily. Run them towards the cigarette lighter, simplifying the process of connecting and turning on the lights.