How To Fix Led Strip Lights

Subheading 1: Introduction

LED strip lights are today's trendiest lighting choice. They are highly durable, versatile, and come in exciting colors that elevate your space's ambiance. However, just like any electronic gadget, they can sometimes fail to produce the desired glow, leading you to seek solutions for fixing them.

In this article, we'll walk you through the primary problem areas of LED strip lights and guide you on how to fix each one. So whether it's faulty wiring, a malfunctioning controller, or a frayed rope, our tips guarantee that your strip lights will illuminate again in no time.

Subheading 2: Testing the Power Supply

Before you tackle any LED strip light issue, it's crucial to determine whether the power supply is in excellent working condition. The power supply is the heart of the LED strip light system, and if it's not working correctly, your strip lights won't turn on.

A good way to test the power supply is by using a multimeter. Set the multimeter to read DC voltage and connect the probes to the power supply's output wires. If the voltage is lower than what's specified on the LED strip light package, it's time to replace the power supply.

Subheading 3: Inspecting the Wiring

If your LED strip lights won't turn on, check the wiring for any loose connections or damage. Use a voltage detector to ensure that there is no current flowing through the wire before you start inspecting.

Start by examining the wires that connect the LED strip light to the controller. Sometimes the wire might come loose, preventing the controller from sending signals to the LED strip light. Check for any cuts or nicks on the wires that could be affecting the signal.

If the wiring looks intact, move on to inspecting the pins that connect the LED strip light to the power supply. Sometimes, the pins on the strips might get damaged, preventing them from getting power from the power supply. If you notice any damage, replace the pins and try turning on the strip light again.

Subheading 4: Replacing Faulty LEDs

LED strip lights involve a chain of individual LED lights that make up the whole lighting system. The failure of one LED light can cause the entire strip light to fail to produce the desired glow. If the LED strip light does not produce its glow, the first step to finding the faulty LED is by dividing the LED strip light system into small segments. After that, test each segment individually.

To do that, you will need to have a 12V power source and a resistor. Connect your LED strip light to the power source through a 100-ohm resistor. If an LED light in that segment does not turn on, it's the faulty one that needs replacement.

To replace the faulty LED, you will require several tools, including a pair of scissors, a pair of pliers, and soldering equipment. Cut the strip light at the point of the faulty LED and remove the faulty LED using the pliers. After that, solder the replacement LED light to the respective wire markings. To hold the LED light in place, cover it with heat shrink tubing.

Subheading 5: Fixing Frayed Wires

LED strip lights are susceptible to damage – physical damage, more so- and one common problem they encounter is frayed wires. Broken or exposed wires may cause a short circuit, making it impossible for the LED strip lights to work.

To fix frayed wires, first, power off the LED strip light and disconnect it from the power supply. Using a sharp blade or scissors, cut off the damaged section of the wire. After that, strip around 1 cm of insulation from the ends of both separated wire pieces. After that, twist the wire ends together and cover them with electrical tape or cover them with a heat shrink tubing strip using a heat gun.

Subheading 6: Conclusion

LED strip lights are an investment in designing a well-lit or ambient space. However, like any bulb or cable, they will develop problems over time and need attention and repair. The tips above will help fix most LED strip light problems, enabling you to enjoy excellent illumination for years.